True or False: Nootropics Make You Smarter
Let’s take a dive into the science behind nootropics, and evaluate exactly how they can boost your cognitive performance.
We’re diving into the incredible history of mushrooms, and sharing what they could be doing for your health.
There’s a reason mushrooms are beginning to find themselves more in the spotlight lately. Yes, they are a delicious addition to many recipes, but they are also nutritional powerhouses. Although we tend to hear about the same kinds of mushrooms over and over, there are actually many types — and each type of mushroom provides its own unique properties. In addition to being low in calories, these little nuggets are rich in antioxidants and have a handful of health benefits.
Did you know mushrooms have provided immune system support dating all the way back to the early Roman times? We’re going to dive into the incredible history of mushrooms, and share what they could be doing for your health. And don’t worry, you don’t have to be a mushroom fan to reap all of the benefits of these health-boosting superfoods!
Mushrooms have a significant role in history. Going back to ancient times, mushrooms were seen as sacred medicinal foods. In fact, you’d be surprised to know how many well-known characters preached the mushroom’s health benefits. For example, Greek physician Hippocrates classified the amadou mushroom as a strong inflammatory support, as well as for cauterizing wounds. Throughout time, people have used mushrooms for their supposed medicinal benefits, and even now it is easy to receive powerful nutrients that help support our health, and all from one tiny mushroom. (1)
Though mushrooms are estimated to have first been grown in Asia around 650, mushrooms first bloomed in 1650 in Europe, when a melon grower near Paris first 'discovered' mushrooms growing in his fertilizer. He then decided to take these strange little fungi and market it as an exotic delicacy to highly exclusive Parisian restaurants. This business blossomed, and soon there were large-scale mushroom cultivations in Europe. Back then, mushrooms were considered a treat exclusively for the elite and enjoyed by many wealthy and higher-class populations. It wouldn't be until the 19th century that mushrooms were introduced in the Netherlands. By 1950, the Dutch had learned more about mushroom cultivation and established their own cultivation areas.
Today, the Netherlands holds 3rd place in the mushroom market, next to the United States. Asia holds 1st place with control of over 70% of the world's mushroom production. (2) Not only are mushrooms widely celebrated in the culinary sense in each of these areas, but they have also been the subject of artists' inspirations for years across the world. Mushrooms have been used so many times for works of art that the North American Mycological Association has a Registry for Mushrooms in Works of Art. (3)
There are many types of mushrooms out there, with some falling into the edible and not-so edible categories. Here, we will share some of the most popular types of mushrooms that you've likely used in a few of your favorite dishes.
So, we’ve established that mushrooms are an integrated part of the culinary world and even the arts. They also have a long history filled with ancient beliefs, myths, and exclusivity. Now it’s time to focus on the big picture, which is: what do mushrooms have to do with the body, what kind of nutrients do mushrooms give off, and what are the health benefits one reaps when consuming them?
Mushrooms have been known to boost the immune system, maintain healthy cholesterol levels, aid in the natural aging process, and support a healthy inflammatory response. (14) This is all due to their nutrient-rich compositions. Some of the most common health benefits when consuming mushrooms include:
Mushrooms have been thought to give the body an added boost. So if you find yourself lacking in energy for your everyday routine, mushrooms could be the way to go!
Many mushrooms can assist in supporting the physicality of the body. Help your body recover after a grueling or tiresome workout with an additional boost of mushroom.
Antioxidants are the strong warriors for the body that not only boost the immune system, they are also known to help reduce free radicals in the body. Mushrooms are rich in a variety of different antioxidants, such as selenium and others.
Another key benefit of mushrooms is encouraging a functional immune system. We all want our immune systems to be at their best, and eating immune supporting foods can be a major step to get there! Mushrooms have continually been linked to immune-supporting compounds.
It’s important for us to know that our body has the support to recover in the best way possible. These mushroom superfoods are known to promote a healthy inflammatory response, which in turn can help the body maintain mobility, reduce bloating, and decrease brain fog.
Mushrooms have been known to be a brain power superfood. By supporting neurons in the brain, mushrooms support cognition for better focus and concentration.
Mushrooms have long been around in history to aid in culinary and health conquests. However, if you just can’t get around the taste or texture, mushrooms also come in the form of mushroom supplements. BalanceGenics has formulated each capsule with 10 revolutionary mushrooms that don’t have a mushroom or earthy taste. Plus, there is the added advantage of being able to take a variety of beneficial mushrooms, including some that are difficult to add to your everyday diet.
Whether you are eating fresh mushrooms or turning to a mushroom supplement, you can feel good knowing your food supports your immune system. Any way you spin it, the truth is that mushrooms can be your body's new best friend. So do yourself a favor, and get some more mushrooms in your life today!
This content is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide medical advice or to take the place of medical advice or treatment from a personal physician. Readers of this content are advised to consult their doctors or qualified health professionals regarding specific health questions. Neither the author(s) nor the publisher of this content take responsibility for possible health consequences of any person or persons reading or following the information in this educational content. All readers of this content, especially those taking prescription or over-the-counter medications, should consult their physicians before beginning any nutrition, supplement or lifestyle program.
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