In recent decades, this holistic perspective on fungi has gained scientific credence through multiple studies, unearthing a wealth of potential health benefits that we think makes them functional, and then some.
You might already be sold on functional mushroom powders, and really just want clarification on how to take them for best results. Don't worry, we've got you covered a bit further down. But before we delve into that...
Where does the term 'functional food' come from?
The actual phrase 'functional food' was coined in Japan during the 1980s. The basic principle is that there are forms of sustenance which provide health benefits as well as nutrition.
If your mind is conjuring up images of kiwis, chia seeds, almonds, blueberries, and turmeric – you're along the right lines. But what makes them 'functional', exactly?
When does food become functional?
According to the European Food Safety Authority, a functional food is one that 'beneficially affects one or more target functions in the body beyond adequate nutritional effects, in a way that is relevant to either an improved state of health and well-being and/or reduction of risk of disease'.
We think scientific literature that backs up claims of health benefits is essential to label a food as functional. It just so happens that in the world of mushrooms, that scientific literature is abundant. Here's two examples of potential health-boosting 'shrooms that are available in powder form right here on the site.
Reishi (Ling Zhi) | Ganoderma Lucidum
A standout 'shroom in a field of excellent functional fungi, the reishi mushroom has a long history of medicinal use. Their vivid colouration and remarkable scallop shape make them relatively easy finds in the many places they call home, where you'll usually find them growing from the trunk of a hardwood tree.
Potential benefits:
- Immunomodulatory
- Anti-tumour
- Antioxidant
- Anti-bacterial
- Anti-ageing
Nutritional value
- High number of water-soluble proteins
- High-fibre
- Vitamin rich
- Polysaccharides
- Amino acids
- Alkaloids
Shiitake (Dong Gu) | Lentinula edodes
Shiitake are edible agaric mushrooms native to East Asia. Cherished for their unique taste and texture, they've recently found further popularity as a meat alternative in multiple vegetarian dishes. As demonstrated below, their value extends far beyond their effect on the palette...
Potential benefits:
- Immunomodulatory
- Antioxidant
- Antiviral
- Anti-tumour
- Cholesterol reduction
- Hepaprotective
Nutritional value
- Protein rich
- High in vitamins B1, B2, B12, C, D and E
- Essential amino acids
- High-fibre
We'll never stop being excited by the sheer wealth of scientific literature surrounding mushrooms; just like mycelium, it seems to keep growing. But we'll bring things back down to earth (pun intended) by answering a seemingly simple question...
How do I take my mushroom powder?
Good news right off the bat: you've got options. Your functional mushroom powder can be taken with or without food, added to any meal, or mixed into a hot or cold drink.
A no-brainer for neurological optimisers is to add mushroom powder to your daily cup(s) of joe. There's a fantastic synergy when those two compounds are combined, and it's a go to for many die-hard users of mushroom powder.
Just a heads-up, if you're planning on purchasing Lion's Mane, Chaga or Cordyceps powder with the intention of adding it to your coffee, we have dedicated blends already formulated.
Instructions
- Simply add 2g of powder, or 2 heaped spoons, to whatever you've chosen to mix it with
When and how often do I take mushroom powder for best results?
Each bag contains 60g of authentic mushroom powder. It's recommended you take the dosage outlined above 1-3 times daily, for a period of at least 3-4 weeks.
Bear in mind that positive results can vary from person to person, and certain individuals may need to prolong the dosage schedule to get the best results from your functional mushroom powder.
Summary
We could go on for days about the various ways in which functional mushroom powder is a bit magic; but we'll exercise restraint and stop here. Getting the most from mushroom powder is pretty simple – figure out your favourite way to take it, and just remember to keep up a consistent schedule!
The world of functional mushroom powders is still in its infancy, and new developments emerge every day. To keep up to date with everything mycology, make sure to follow our blog.
*Please note, Mycology Nutrition cannot guarantee the positive effects of its products. Results may vary. Our products are not designed to treat medical conditions or diseases.