Hundreds of mushroom supplements line the shelves of wellness stores across the U.S., but determining what is safe and effective is up to you.
Not all mushroom supplements are created equal. Some formulations use mushroom mycelium – the root-like structure of a fungus. Mycelium doesn’t contain as many nutritional compounds as the fruiting body and is cheaper. High-quality mushroom supplements feature the fruiting bodies instead, a more powerful and nutrient-dense part of the mushroom.
You also need to consider other ingredients used. The best mushroom supplements contain all-natural, non-GMO ingredients.
However, quality is not the only factor to consider. Different mushroom species possess different therapeutic effects, so you need to consider what you’re hoping to achieve from your mushroom experience. Also, there are several types of mushroom supplements to choose from, including powders, capsules, and gummies.
For instance, a turkey tail mushroom supplement from page https://vidacap.com/turkey-tail-supplement/ can be found in powder extract, gummies, or capsules. The same is true of lion’s mane, reishi, cordyceps, and other types of mushroom supplements.
Below, we explore how to choose a mushroom supplement to suit your needs and preferences.
What Are the Different Mushroom Species?
First and foremost, look at the different therapeutic benefits of each mushroom species. Functional mushrooms are packed with beneficial compounds that help support overall health and wellness.
However, each variety boasts its own unique set of compounds, contributing to unique therapeutic effects.
Here are the most popular mushroom species and their potential benefits.
- Reishi: Deemed “the king of mushrooms,” reishi may help support immune system health, improve energy and mental clarity, reduce stress, and improve sleep.
- Lion’s Mane: Known as the “smart mushroom,” lion’s mane is touted for improving concentration, focus, and memory. It may also help with digestive issues and provide immune support.
- Chaga: A rich source of antioxidants, chaga is commonly used for detoxification, immune support, and reducing free radical damage. It can also promote relaxation.
- Turkey Tail: Turkey tail is most touted for its immune-boosting potential. It contains two unique polysaccharides PSK (Krestin) and PSP (poly-saccharide peptide), both of which have been studied for enhancing immune cell production.
- Cordyceps: Known as the “energy mushrooms,” cordyceps support energy and endurance. As such, cordyceps are popular among athletes.
Many companies craft mushroom supplements that contain a blend of mushroom species; therefore, you can reap the reward of multiple mushrooms.
Typically, immunity blends feature several mushroom species since most mushrooms possess powerful immune-boosting properties.
Different Types of Mushroom Supplements
Once you know what mushroom species suit your needs, you need to decide on a type of mushroom supplement.
You might find powders, capsules, tinctures, gummies, and more at your local health food store and online. Depending on the specific mushroom species, each delivery method delivers the same effects.
Choosing the best delivery method depends on your personal preferences. Powders are one of the purest and most versatile ways to use mushrooms. They can be mixed into foods and beverages, like smoothies, coffees, and soups. And you can easily adjust the dosage to suit your needs.
Capsules are tasteless and offer an unmatched level of convenience; they require no extra preparation. They’re easy to take and can be swallowed with a glass of water like you take other health supplements. Gummies are tasty and also straightforward to use.
They should be incorporated into a daily wellness regime and taken regularly to get the most out of mushroom supplements. Therefore, it’s important to choose a consumption method that easily fits into your lifestyle.
Choosing High-Quality Mushroom Supplements
Finally, you need to ensure you buy high-quality mushroom supplements from a trustworthy and reputable retailer for optimal results.
As already discussed, look for products made using mushroom fruiting bodies rather than mycelium. Moreover, supplements should contain no fillers, starch, or grains. In general, the fewer additional ingredients, the better.
Also, check the product label for beta-glucan content. Beta-glucans are perhaps the most beneficial compounds found in mushrooms, so supplements must be packed with these.
Another important factor is the extraction process. A mushroom’s beneficial compounds are acquired during extraction, making the process a company uses crucial – it impacts product potency. Only buy from manufacturers with the knowledge and expertise to craft effective supplements.
Lastly, consider potency when choosing a mushroom supplement. Mushroom products are available in different concentrations to suit different needs. Generally, low to mid concentrations are sufficient for supporting general wellness and minor health issues, like stress. However, if your stress levels are especially high or you’re using mushrooms to help manage a specific health issue, you may require a higher concentration.
Final Thoughts on Choosing a Mushroom Supplement
There are multiple factors to consider when choosing a mushroom supplement. In general, the mushroom species, type of mushroom supplement, and quality are the primary factors to take into account.
Once you know what you’re looking for, you can start scouting different brands. Check customer reviews to gauge a company’s standing in the market and read product descriptions and manufacturing processes carefully, so you know what you’re getting.
