6 Powerhouse Mushrooms to Add to Your Diet

I don’t know why, but talking about mushrooms always makes me giggle. Maybe it’s because when you mention mushrooms people seem to imagine hippies, and tie-dye, and lots of fringe. They think that you’re going to tell them a story about transcending the universe or limping through a bad trip. But with the rise in holistic health and natural supplements, mushrooms have taken on a whole new purpose and image in the public eye.

Curiosity and experimentation have driven a new interest in the health benefits of non-psychoactive mushrooms; they’ve been shown to help with anxiety, stress, and even sleep. And while I can’t choose the best mushroom supplement for your personal needs, this guide will help you decipher which mushroom has the kind of benefits you’re looking for. Here are the 6 most common mushrooms you’ll find today, and what they’re supposed to help with.

best mushroom supplement for health + what they do

Cordyceps for energy

These mushrooms are known for helping your body oxygenate more efficiently. That means better blood flow, and in turn, more energy. Cordyceps are a great choice for athletes or anyone prioritizing their physical health. They’ve been shown to improve performance, speed up recovery time, and may also help with libido. So, whether you’re trying to work up a sweat in the gym, or in the bedroom, this mushroom has got your back.

Lion’s Mane for the brain

One of the most potent medicinal mushrooms, lion’s mane is a fantastic aid for mental clarity and cognition. Full of antioxidants, this hairy mushroom boosts immunity while lowering anxiety. It helps to create calm focus, promotes memory retention, and is great for anyone who needs help studying. It’s amazing for brain health because it fosters and promotes nerve growth and preservation, which can help prevent neurological diseases like Alzheimer’s later on in life.

Reishi for your mood

I feel like out of all the mushroom supplements, reishi has been dominating center stage the last few years. It’s no surprise when you consider its calming effects; in a world that’s full of stressful situations, I’m sure everyone could use some help relaxing now and then. The effects of reishi can also help with depression and sleep as it boosts and stabilizes your mood via the powerful antioxidant, triterpene, it contains. So if you’re looking for something to help you wake up a little happier every day, or maintain your mood throughout the day, reishi may be just what you need.

Turkey Tail for immunity

I always think this is such a funny name, but if you’ve ever seen a fresh turkey tail, you’d know the moniker is pretty accurate. This striped and fan-shaped mushroom has been studied for its cancer-fighting properties, and contains a compound called polysaccharide-K (PSK) which is known to stimulate the immune system. Turkey tail is so effective it’s used in Asia as a supplement to cancer treatments, and is being studies for its potential to slow tumor growth. This mushroom is a great choice for anyone who is particularly conscientious about their physical health and wellness.

Chaga for aging

While every one of these mushrooms is a great source of antioxidants, chaga is a particularly great choice for combating oxidative stress, which is known to cause skin aging. Its anti-inflammatory properties mean that it can also help with feeling old, and not just with physical signs of aging. This is a great choice for someone who may be a little older, who wants to look as youthful as they feel.

Shiitake for cholesterol

A common edible mushroom used in a variety of cuisines, shiitakes make seem more like an average joe in comparison to the other fungi on this list. But while the delicious umami-flavor may be what initially attracts you to this mushroom, shiitakes are actually also known to promote heart health and lower cholesterol. They contain eritadenine, a compound that inhibits an enzyme that can contribute to the production of cholesterol, as well as sterols, which block cholesterol absorption in your body. So, if you’re looking to switch out the Cheerios or Special K for something less sugary, shiitakes may be something you’d like to add to your diet.

 Have you ever tried a mushroom supplement?