Cuprins
Cuprins
Originally posted January 2019 / Updated August 2023
In food and medicine, mushrooms have stood the test of time. However, in the present moment, their popularity is skyrocketing, particularly those varieties that offer "functional" health benefits.
The global functional mushroom market, estimated at over $25 billion, is booming. It is expected to grow over 10% annually until 2030.
This growth represents the significant increase in the popularity of functional mushrooms as both food and dietary supplements due to their numerous health benefits.
For many years, the most popular functional mushrooms were shitake and reishi. While these two mushrooms have become even more popular recently because of their immune-boosting effects, the growth of the total functional mushroom market is greatly influenced by other health-promoting mushrooms' emergence. The following types of mushrooms have immune-enhancing effects as well as additional health benefits:
Mushrooms are rich in bioactive compounds such as beta-glucans, flavonoids like quercetin, and other polyphenols and triterpenes. The health benefits of these ingredients are well-established. But even more exciting is the emerging data on the unique amino acid ergothioneine (ERGO).
Ergothioneine is an anti-aging and health-promoting amino acid produced by mushrooms. Dr. Bruce Ames, a famous scientist at the University of California, has suggested that ERGO be considered a “longevity vitamin” based on extensive research.
ERGO is a thiol, meaning it is a sulfur-containing compound. Some of its antioxidant and anti-aging effects are similar to other thiol-containing compounds, such as glutathione and coenzyme Q10. Still, since ERGO is a much smaller molecule, it is distributed throughout the body and all the compartments of the cells, including the mitochondria (the energy-producing compartment of cells).
ERGO has decreased oxidative stress in virtually every tissue and cell type studied, including the lining of blood vessels, liver, kidney, heart, and other organs. It also helps reduce the toxic effects of many harmful chemicals.
Lower intakes of ERGO from the diet may explain why Americans have more age-related health issues and a lower life expectancy than other countries. For example, the estimated intake level of ERGO in the United States is 1.1 mg/day compared to up to 4.6 mg/day in Italy.
In a study of over 15,000 Americans, researchers found that individuals who consumed even small amounts of mushrooms were associated with a 16% reduction in mortality rate. ERGO may be the critical mushroom component for this benefit.
Mushrooms are the critical dietary source of ERGO, representing about 95% of the total dietary intake. And if a person is not regularly eating mushrooms, they are likely deficient in ERGO. And evidence indicates that it could accelerate aging and the development of age-related disorders.
Interestingly, reishi mushrooms were called the "mushroom of immortality" in traditional Chinese medicine. How did these ancient Chinese know it was rich in ERGO?
Reishi mushrooms are like a factory of biologically active valuable compounds. Most importantly, they are rich in beta-glucans that promote immune function and triterpene, which can exert antioxidant and anti-aging effects, boost moods, reduce feelings of anxiety, and improve sleep.
Though the shiitake mushroom is a mainstay in the Japanese diet, it grows in the warm, humid regions of North and South America, Asia, and Australia.
Scientific research has focused on immune-enhancing polysaccharides, though these compounds also exert antioxidant and anti-aging effects.
Chaga mushrooms grow on many tree species, particularly birch trees. The appearance of the dark brown Chaga mushrooms on a tree can look like a burnt clump of bark.
Like other mushrooms, chaga exerts immune-enhancing, antioxidant, and anti-aging properties. Chaga has also shown some anti-fatigue effects.
Cordyceps encompass more than 400 species of mushrooms, but C. sinensis and C. militaris are the types most often researched and used in supplements.
Cordyceps is a nutrient and phytochemical-rich mushroom most commonly used to reduce fatigue and to boost strength. Like many other functional mushrooms, they may also slow aging.
Lions mane mushrooms are large white mushrooms with many long white spines resembling a lion’s mane. Typically, they are grown on dead and decaying hardwood or can be grown on a home substrate.
Like most mushrooms, lion’s mane contains polysaccharides that can support immune function. However, the primary use is in supporting brain function and mood. Lion’s mane contains compounds known as erinacines that can pass through the blood–brain barrier to promote improved brain cell function, resulting in mood, memory, and cognition improvements.
Turkey's tail was named because of the mushroom's bright colors and resemblance to a turkey tail. These can be found growing on tree trunks in wooded areas.
Turkey tail is most often used for its immune-enhancing and antioxidant properties because it may have compounds that may stimulate and strengthen the immune system.
Mushroom-based drink mixes are one of the most common ways to supplement with mushrooms and are an excellent herbal alternative to traditional coffee, tea, and cocoa.
Typically, these products are dried powdered mixes available as bulk powder or in packets for single-serving use. Generally, the drink mix is combined with hot water or plant-based milk alternatives and mixed to create mushroom-enhanced coffee, tea, or cocoa. Below are some additional ideas.
This delicious recipe uses pumpkin spice to create a rich and creamy latte. It contains real pumpkin puree and is great for when someone needs a little extra energy.
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This mushroom drink contains maca root, which increases alertness without causing mental highs and lows like caffeine can. It also has manuka honey that provides beneficial antioxidant properties. Though it has a texture and flavor similar to a latte, it does not actually have any caffeine. Therefore, people can drink a version with reishi powder before bed to relax.
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This recipe combines mushroom and bulletproof coffee to make a delicious beverage. The addition of coconut oil gives the coffee a nice creamy texture without the use of animal products. Therefore, it is entirely vegan.
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Those who live in warm climates will appreciate this chilled latte. Instead of coffee, this iced latte uses matcha powder for the caffeine to give it a gentler energy boost. A combination of several types of mushroom powder ensures that this latte is loaded with healthy mushrooms.
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This latte gets its signature color from the turmeric it contains. The turmeric and other spices in this latte are loaded with helpful antioxidants, so they boost the protective power of the mushrooms even more. Dates help naturally sweeten the latte while enhancing the flavor of the spices.
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Many mushroom lattes use premixed powders that contain both mushrooms and coffee. This recipe is perfect for coffee enthusiasts who want to enjoy a homemade espresso while getting all the health benefits from mushrooms.
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