Despite the challenges that the pandemic and the associated period of lockdown has brought, it has also been an opportunity for many to boost their health and wellbeing by making lifestyle and diet changes and when considering dietary modifications increasing consumption of mushrooms has many attractions.
With risk from Covid-19 infection rising strongly in those whose immune systems have been weakened by age or pre-existing health conditions, mushrooms’ ability to support immune function is reason enough for us to consume more. Especially delicious culinary mushrooms such as Shiitake and Maitake with proven immunological benefits.
As a valuable non-animal source of Vitamin D (D2), mushrooms also have a role to play in maintaining healthy levels of this important vitamin, particularly in those who are vegetarian and vegan. You can also leave fresh mushrooms in sunlight with the gills facing upwards for 60 minutes to increase Vitamin D levels by ten times.
Despite the amazing technology helping us cope with the current restrictions it can still be difficult to maintain focus and energy. Here, mushrooms can offer valuable support.
Lion’s Mane produces compounds that have been shown to help with nerve repair and is beneficial for a number of neurodegenerative conditions. It has also been shown to have a calming effect, helping with anxiety as well as delivering benefits for memory and mental focus.
As well as its immune-modulating and anti-inflammatory action, Reishi is another calming mushroom that can help with anxiety and sleep disturbance. I
Traditionally collected from the Tibetan plateau, Cordyceps is used in Chinese medicine to support energy levels, lung and kidney function, indications supported by modern research. In addition cordycepin from Cordyceps militaris has been shown to protect the lungs from acute injury.
