There are 50 types of mushrooms that can digest and break down different types of plastics.
Imagine mushrooms doing that to the toxins in our bodies!
Well, they can! This is why our ancestors have been eating edible mushrooms for thousands of years, using over 100 different varieties for their healing benefits.
Edible Mushroom Polysaccharides (EMPS) can fight many of the diseases we face today, including immunity issues, mental health, obesity, IBS, IBD, and cancer.
Even the therapeutic benefit of microdosing the fungi psilocybin is being recognized as a way to combat depression by forming and regenerating neuronal connections in the brain.
Fungi could be one of the many solutions in one’s healing journey due to their antibiotic, antitumor, antiviral, immunostimulant, neuro-supportive, and hypolipidemic properties.
Did you know that fungi are more similar to humans than plants? They also need oxygen, food, and water and excrete waste products and excess CO2.
Nutritionally, mushrooms are high in protein and low in fat. They are high in vitamins B, C, D, and K, and minerals, including potassium, calcium, phosphorus, and selenium.
They also contain chitin and beta-glucans. Chitin is a dietary fiber that acts as a prebiotic, aiding in the growth of good gut bacteria, and beta-glucans are instrumental in wound healing, collagen synthesis, and immune modulation.
And if that wasn’t enough, they also have high amounts of the antioxidants ergothioneine and glutathione that help fight aging!!
Here are a few of my favorite mushrooms to add to your recipes this week:
LION’S MANE is special because it passes the blood-brain barrier. It boosts memory and cognitive performance as well as brain protection by stimulating the production of NGF, Nerve Growth Factor, as well as BDNF, Brain Derived Nootropic Factor.
CHAGA the “king of medicinal mushrooms” is a powerful antioxidant and boosts the immune system. Ancient healers in North America, Europe, and Asia have used it.
REISHI is known as the “Mushroom of Immortality” for its ability to balance and down regulate an overactive immune system and boost the health of the cardiovascular system. Reishi also acts as an adaptogen that helps us better adapt to mental and physical stressors.
MAITAKE helps with immune function due to its beta-glucan content. It also supports blood sugar and helps fight insulin resistance.
CORDYCEPS can strengthen vitality and endurance in aerobic athletes by increasing oxygen delivery and the creation of ATP, thus supporting respiration. It also increases overall circulation. Fun fact: Cordyceps inspired HBO’s hit TV show, The Last of Us.
AGARICUS BLAZEI is found in Brazil and can help lower triglycerides and manage cholesterol due to their high content of polysaccharides.
ANTRODIA comes from Taiwan and is a liver-protective and immunity-enhancing mushroom.
KING TRUMPET contains the antioxidant L-Ergothioneine and is beneficial in managing cholesterol and bone health.
SHIITAKE boosts the liver, cardiovascular, and immune systems and aids in detoxification support.
TURKEY TAIL has powerful polysaccharides and beta-glucans to support immune health.
*This is not medical advice. Please consult with your physician before starting herbs/supplements.
Audrey Stimpson MPS; CFNC is a Certified Functional Nutrition Counselor specializing in ADHD, autism, autoimmune, hormonal imbalances, and gut-brain health. Audrey truly believes that by healing our gut-brain connection, we can live a life free from stimulants, brain fog, pain, and IBS. Visit Audreystimpson.com or @audreystimpson on social media.
