When you think of coffee ingredients, you probably think of things like sugar, creamer, milk, maybe even honey or sweet syrups. Unfortunately, many of the most popular options can take a toll on your health. But one thing that can actually help your health and probably doesn’t pop into your head is mushrooms. Yes, you read that right: mushrooms. As it turns out, functional mushrooms like Lion’s Mane can do wonders for your health, especially when it comes to your brain.
Lion’s Mane is a unique functional mushroom known for its potential to boost brain health. And according to Rachael Miller, a nutritionist, herbalist, and the founder of Zhi Herbals, it could be the secret weapon your morning coffee needs for an extra cognitive kick. Learn more about this surprising superfood below.
Lion's Mane and Brain Health
According to Miller, the key to Lion's Mane's brain-boosting prowess lies in its ability to stimulate neural growth. As she explains, "Lion's mane benefits brain health by increasing neural growth in the brain." This statement is supported by research that has shown remarkable increases, up to 20%, in neurite growth—a crucial component of nerve cells—in the brain as a result of Lion's Mane consumption.
Neurite growth is fundamental for maintaining and enhancing cognitive function. It involves the development of nerve cell extensions, allowing for better communication between brain cells. By promoting neurite growth, Lion's Mane may contribute to improved cognitive abilities, memory, and overall brain health.
Optimal Dosage and Safety
While many individuals add 1-2 grams of Lion's Mane to their coffee, Miller suggests that this dosage might be conservative. "Lion's mane has a long history of use as a food, and even 10 grams or more would be safe for most people," she assures us. However, she acknowledges that adding larger quantities can impact the flavor of your coffee, making it less palatable.
Additionally, it's crucial to consider individual tolerance levels and preferences, finding a balance that works for both cognitive enhancement and your ideal taste.
To ensure that you reap the full benefits of Lion's Mane, Miller recommends seeking products that have undergone additional processing. This could involve extraction using alcohol or water, a step that enhances bioavailability—the body's ability to absorb and utilize the mushroom's active compounds.
"Look for lion's mane that has undergone additional processing will help increase bioavailability so that you can get the most benefits," Miller advises. By choosing products with enhanced bioavailability, you can maximize the impact of Lion's Mane on your brain health, making it a more effective addition to your morning routine.
The bottom line
Of course, it's important to remember that no food can be a miracle worker—even a superfood like Lion's Mane. However, adding Lion's Mane to your morning coffee on a regular basis could be a promising way to significantly impact brain health by promoting neural growth. It's certainly worth a shot! We love mushroom tonics like MUD/WTR and Wooden Spoon Herbs. There are plenty of great, tasty options out there—so it's worth a shot!
READ MORE: The Brain-Healthy Habits Health And Food Experts Swear By For A Sharper Mind And Better Sleep
