Are you familiar with mushrooms? Of course, you know the literal meaning of the word, but do you know anything about fungi that can enhance wellness? Also called functional mushrooms or magic mushrooms, gummies infused with them have garnered popularity over the last couple of years. However, the real question is – do mushroom gummies work? Or are they only enjoying a short-lived hype? The answer is – yes, they do!
If you want to learn more before you buy mushroom gummies, you need to read this. This article will explore the science behind these gummies, exploring their potential health benefits, the types of mushrooms used, and what researchers say about their effectiveness.
What are Mushroom Gummies?
Functional mushroom supplements are available in various types, but here, we will focus primarily on gummies. They are a form of dietary supplement fabricated using extracts from different medicinal mushrooms, such as Lion’s Mane, Shiitake, Chaga, etc. These gummies can offer health benefits in a convenient, palatable form. Gummies, as you can guess, come in various flavors and combos, targeting different health needs, including cognitive enhancement, immune support, and stress relief.
Medicinal Mushrooms Used in Gummies
Here are a couple of functional mushrooms used in gummies.
- Lion’s Mane: Recognized for providing mental clarity and supporting cognitive function.
- Chaga: Contains numerous antioxidants, promoting overall wellness and inflammation reduction.
- Reishi: Reishi mushrooms can reduce stress and strengthen the immune system.
- Cordyceps: This fungus enhances athletic performance and increases energy.
- Turkey Tail: Another mushroom with possible health benefits is called Turkey Tail that can boost the immune system and may even help fight cancer cells.
- Shiitake: One compound in Shiitake mushrooms called eritadenine may reduce blood cholesterol levels.
- Maitake: Researchers claim maitake mushrooms can lower cholesterol levels and increase beneficial fatty acids.
- King Oyster: King Oyster mushrooms are really the king of health benefits, as it can prevent osteoporosis and arthritis, boost vitamin D levels, help maintain blood pressure, and more.
Health Benefits of Mushroom Gummies
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Mental Clarity & Cognitive Improvement
Among all the touted benefits of mushroom-infused gummies, the most popular one is their ability to support brain health. Lion’s Mane mushroom gummies, for instance, can increase the production of nerve growth factor (NGF), which is crucial to the growth and maintenance of neurons. The Journal of Medicinal Food claims Lion’s Mane can enhance cognitive function and reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, especially in older adults.
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Supporting the Immune System
Reishi mushroom gummies and Chaga mushroom gummies possess immune-boosting abilities. Both mushroom variants contain polysaccharides and beta-glucans. These compounds augment the body’s immune response by activating white blood cells. The Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine suggests Reishi mushrooms can increase the activity of natural killer cells. These cells play a vital role in the body’s defense against pathogens.
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Relaxation & Stress Reduction
Proponents claim Reishi-infused gummies have adaptogenic properties. In simpler words, they help the body adapt to stress. Reishi can balance cortisol levels, the hormone responsible for stress, and promote relaxation. Based on a study in Phytotherapy Research, Reishi may help reduce fatigue and improve the quality of life by reducing stress and anxiety.
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Better Athletic Performance with Enhanced Energy
Cordyceps mushroom gummies are a staple among athletes and active people looking to boost their energy levels and improve endurance. Cordyceps can enhance the body’s capability of producing adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the primary carrier of energy in cells. A review in the Journal of Dietary Supplements points to Cordyceps’ ability to enhance aerobic performance and reduce fatigue, making this fungus beneficial for athletes and people with active lifestyles.
How Do Magic Mushrooms Work?
Looking Through the Lens of Science
The power of magic mushrooms hides in the active compounds they contain, such as polysaccharides, beta-glucans, and triterpenoids. These substances interact with the internal systems to promote wellness in different ways. For instance, mushroom gummies can modulate the immune response and increase brain function.
To create these gummies, manufacturers extract the beneficial compounds from the fruiting bodies of the fungi. Then, they infuse the extracts into a gummy base. They often combine the extracts with natural flavors and sweetening agents to make the supplements palatable.
A noteworthy advance of these gummies is that they are easy for the body to digest and absorb, allowing you to utilize the active compounds effectively. Then again, the bioavailability of these elements can vary depending on how the manufacturers extracted the compounds and formulated the edibles.
Are They Effective?
Information Backed by Research
The effectiveness of any supplement depends on certain factors. In this instance, one must consider the type of mushroom used, the quality of the compounds extracted from the shrooms, and the consumer’s health needs.
Here are a few pieces of scientific data gathered by researchers.
- Several studies report Lion’s Mane extracts can improve cognitive function and mental clarity.
- Research claims Reishi and Chaga mushrooms may improve immune function, especially in people with weak immune systems.
- Reishi mushrooms are adaptogenic, making them appropriate for stress and anxiety reduction, promoting relaxation, and bolstering overall well-being.
While the information provided above looks promising, it is mandatory to state that most studies have been conducted using mushroom extracts instead of infused gummies. Understandably, the efficacy of a product can differ based on formulation and dosage.
What Should You Look for When Buying Gummies?
We suggest considering the following factors when purchasing mushroom-infused gummies. Doing so will ensure you get a worthwhile product.
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The Source
Explore products and brands that use high-quality, organically grown mushrooms. Ideally, the gummies should be infused with extracts derived from the fruiting body, not the mycelium.
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Third-Party Tests
Make sure the product has been tested for purity and potency by an independent laboratory.
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Transparent Labeling
Pick a product that clearly lists the type and amount of mushroom extract in every serving.
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No Artificial Additives
Go for products made with natural ingredients. They should be devoid of artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives.
Usage Guidelines
One must take mushroom gummies consistently to get the best results. Stick to the recommended dosage on the packaging. It will be even better for you to consult your healthcare provider, especially if you have underlying health problems or are taking other medications.
Final Words
So, do mushroom gummies work? From everything described above, it is safe to say that they do! Mushroom gummies are convenient to consume and tasty, making it easier for you to incorporate the health benefits of medicinal fungi into your daily routine.
More research is needed to fully grasp their long-term effects, but the existing evidence suggests they can improve immunity, support cognitive function, manage stress, and increase energy. By making the right product choice and using the gummies consistently, you can harness the true power of functional mushrooms.
We are Essential Mushrooms – a brand that aims to make it easier for people to access natural well-being. If you want to buy mushroom gummies from our shroom store, we can offer you some of the finest products to support the immune system and help you create and embrace a balanced lifestyle.
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