The Mushrooms That Will Boost Your Energy and Fight Fatigue

While feelings of tiredness are nothing new, this deluxe version is said to stem from a combination of the rising cost of living, the pandemic, environmental concerns, and geopolitical instability, not to mention that social media habit many of us are unable to kick.

However, there are things we can do to give ourselves an energy boost (and we’re not talking about a Red Bull here!) ‘Energy’ has many different meanings. It can be how awake and alert we feel. The focus and stamina we can exert. The fuel and enjoyment we get from food. Our mental clarity and creativity. Social stimulation… the list goes on. 

Mushrooms are a Source of Natural Energy

This means there are many different angles from which to approach your energy-boosting, hyper fatigue fighting journey. One of them is via what you put in your body. Mushrooms promise a natural and sustainable source of energy, and are classed as a ‘functional food’. This means that they are not only nutritious and healthy, but could also have therapeutic properties.

These properties include being a source of energy, in more ways than one. While mushrooms do not give you that zap of energy that an espresso does for example, they provide a more holistic, longer-term boost. That morning coffee certainly wakes us up, but the effects peak rapidly and decrease over time. This can lead us to consuming more and more caffeine to sustain the rush, or searching for a similar boost, such as sugary, unhealthy snacks. Mushrooms present an alternative to this cycle.

How Do Mushrooms Give You Energy?

The food and drinks we consume are the primary sources of energy for our bodies. Your daily activities, habits, and lifestyle needs determine the type of energy you require. Mushrooms are an excellent source of complex carbohydrates and are high in protein in many species. Unlike simple sugars, complex carbohydrates are metabolized slowly, providing a steady release of energy over time. Mushrooms are also rich in polysaccharides, which help combat fatigue, and their high vitamin B12 content supports the conversion of food into energy.

Mushrooms are classified as adaptogens, partly due to the beta-glucans in their cell walls. Adaptogens are foods known to restore the body’s balance and equilibrium after stress. They can reduce fatigue, strengthen immunity, and aid in faster recovery. Additionally, their anti-inflammatory properties help lower stress levels.

Some adaptogenic mushrooms, such as lion’s mane, have shown promise in early studies and animal research, suggesting they may stimulate nerve growth factor (NGF) in the brain.

Though research like this is still in relative infancy (mushrooms have been overlooked in Western medicine for a shockingly long time), more studies are coming to the fore with promising findings. There is certainly a long history of mushrooms being used medicinally for centuries by various cultures, notably in East Asian healing traditions, proving them more than worth further investigation.

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How to Consume Mushrooms for Energy

If you’re considering incorporating medicinal mushrooms into your routine, finding a convenient method is essential. While eating mushrooms is both tasty and energizing, many people turn to supplements, powders, or tinctures to maximize their medicinal benefits. These options have a much longer shelf life than fresh mushrooms and are perfect for those with busy lifestyles, as they eliminate the need for cooking. They also offer consistency, allowing the benefits to accumulate over time. Mushroom energy is a slow, steady release, so establishing a regular routine is key to unlocking their full potential.

Using ‘Synergy’ to Harness Energy

Mushrooms are, individually, a source of energy. However, a key thing to consider before you begin your journey is ‘synergy’. Synergy is a concept popular in natural medicine and herbalism that refers to the chorus of effects that can be achieved when different mushrooms, herbs, or plants are taken together. Combining different mushrooms can enhance their effects. The entourage of qualities they provide magnify the results you would get from one mushroom or mushroom supplement alone. This is why formulas or supplements that contain a blend of mushrooms are popular. However, there are benefits to buying individual supplement and combining them too — that way you can experiment and perfect your own blend. 

Mushrooms Target Different Systems of the Body

In 2017, a team of scholars from the Hong Kong Polytechnic University published a review that explored the potential anti-fatigue properties of certain mushrooms. They communicated that mushrooms target five major systems in the body with their energizing effects. These were the cardiovascular system, the immune system, the muscular system, the hormonal system, and the antioxidant system.

 

The cardiovascular system: mushrooms enhance blood circulation and glucose regulation as well as liver efficiency.

 

The immune system: mushrooms stimulate immune cells and the proteins (cytokines) in the body that trigger immune response.

 

The muscular system: mushrooms increase muscle and liver glycogen storage capacity and reduce lactic acid in the blood. This can help with muscle fatigue and combat that burn you feel in your muscles while exercising.

 

The hormonal system: mushrooms can stabilize testosterone levels, which provides a more sustained feeling of energy.

 

The antioxidant system: mushrooms stimulate enzymes and fight the negative effects of free radicals and stressors. Targeting these five areas, mushrooms enhance the proper function of the different systems in our bodies. This maintains balance and combats fatigue, leading to an increase of energy over time. 

The Best Mushrooms for Energy

Cordyceps

Cordyceps, particularly Cordyceps militaris, has been shown to benefit the heart and respiratory system. By improving blood flow to the brain, organs, and extremities, cordyceps provide a natural energy boost and enhance aerobic capacity. They also help the body use oxygen more efficiently, which improves endurance and stamina. A 2010 study found that after 12 weeks of taking a cordyceps formula, older adults experienced improved exercise performance. Additionally, cordyceps are surrounded by fascinating anecdotes, such as the 1993 Chinese National Games, where a group of female athletes credited their record-breaking performance in nine world events to regular consumption of the fungi.

Reishi

This mushroom, used for centuries in Asian cultures, is known as the ‘mushroom of immortality’. Early studies have found that the therapeutic values of reishi are significant, including the promotion of energy. Reishi increases antioxidant activity and therefore protects against oxidative stress.

In 2018, a review was published that suggested reishi may aid the regeneration of neurons in the brain, and is neuroprotective too. This makes ideal for reducing mental fatigue.

Lion’s Mane

Lion’s mane has a glowing credit of being not just adaptogenic, but also a natural nootropic.

Studies have found that lion’s mane may help improve the way our bodies metabolize energy, delay physical tiredness, and increase stamina.

Other research has suggested that the bioactive components in lion’s mane such as flavonoids, phenols and ascorbic acid can improve cognition, as well as support learning, memory, and mood. It also increases blood flow to the central nervous system which improves our ability to focus. 

Chaga

Chaga mushrooms boast some of the highest antioxidant levels among all mushrooms. Their rising popularity has led to their use in teas, lattes, and other beverages, often serving as a caffeine-free coffee alternative. Research indicates that chaga supports glucose uptake in cells, activating the body's energy pathways and promoting sustained energy levels.

It’s important to remember that energy is a complex interplay of various factors. Psilocybin, along with other natural health supplements, supports your body’s inherent energy systems rather than providing artificial stimulation like caffeine. It’s a holistic approach that contributes to improved energy levels and all round well-being.

Chaga Mushroom Benefits

  • Improve physical performance

  • Can help fight cancer

  • Reduce Fatigue

  • Improve immunity

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