Functional and medicinal mushroom supplements continue to take the health and wellness world by storm. But as with any supplement that you’re adding to your diet, it's important to know how and when to take them. Most of the time, mushroom supplements can be taken freely with little to no side effects, however, there are still things to consider when you decide to add them to your daily routine.
The History of Functional Mushrooms
For thousands upon thousands of years, mushrooms have served as a food and medicine source across the world. From Asia and Europe, all the way to North and South America to the continent of Africa, mushrooms have been present throughout history. The power of mushrooms and their ability to treat physical and mental conditions, as well as connect us more deeply to our spirituality, has been passed down from generation to generation, leaving us in the modern-day with the knowledge that we have now.
Although the use of mushrooms as a culinary ingredient and as a tool for medicinal purposes has been around for centuries, it has only become mainstream in western culture in recent years. Dried mushrooms that have been ground into a powder and then put into capsules have become a very common way to reap the benefits of functional mushrooms. They can provide us with powerful nutritional and medicinal benefits and are super easy to incorporate into our daily lives.
Things To Consider
As mentioned, mushrooms come with a series of potential benefits. From vitamins and minerals to bioactive compounds, mushrooms are some of the most promising naturally beneficial substances on earth. However, like anything else you are ingesting there are some things to consider before diving in.
The Source
Just as you may consider the way your fruits were grown when you’re at the grocery store, it’s important to understand how the mushrooms you are taking in capsule form were grown as well. Fungi are great decomposers, which means that they can break down dead animal and plant material which helps keep our ecosystem healthy. That being said, they are also bioaccumulators, meaning that it is very easy for them to accumulate toxins, metals, pesticides, or other harmful substances.
To make sure your mushrooms are safe, consider the source. Look for FDA-approved organic growers that cultivate and grow mushrooms in controlled conditions that eliminate the chances for dangerous substances to be present.
The Dose
Too much of anything can be harmful and mushroom capsules are no different. There aren’t many necessarily dangerous outcomes if you take more supplements than suggested, however, you may not reap the benefits you’re looking for. Always take the recommended dose that is listed on the bottle to get the optimum results.
Possible Side Effects
Mushroom capsules shouldn’t be feared, but they should be taken with consideration to your current health status, wants, and needs. Mushrooms should never be taken instead of medication and you should always consult with your doctor before taking functional mushrooms alongside other prescriptions.
Upset Stomach
Mushrooms are rich sources of fiber, which is great unless you take too much at one time. Too much fiber ultimately supports our gut health and digestion, but it could initially cause some digestive upsets if taken in too large of doses.
This side effect is mild and often very short-lived and usually resolves on its own. If you’re experiencing discomfort from your capsules, cut back on your dose for a week or two and then slowly reintroduce them.
Over Stimulation
Some mushrooms have the incredible ability to stimulate focus and increase our concentration which can be useful during the day yet frustrating when you’re looking to get some much-needed shut-eye. For this reason, it's important to know what mushrooms to take and when. For example, lion’s mane and cordyceps both support sustained energy and stamina and are best used during the day in order to reap its brain-supporting properties and avoid sleeplessness.
Specific Sensitivities
The nutrients in mushrooms can affect everyone differently, especially those with specific medical conditions. Chaga, for example, is known for its amazing antioxidant content (even more than blueberries!), but this can actually be harmful to those who experience kidney stones or gout.
As mentioned, it’s always important to speak with your doctor if you have a medical diagnosis and are currently taking medications before adding mushroom capsules to your daily routine.
Interested In Organic, High-Quality Mushroom Capsules?
If you’re looking to start adding functional mushroom capsules to your ritual, Alchemi Mushrooms is here to help. We have capsules filled with reishi, lion’s mane, cordyceps mushrooms, and more to help you feel your absolute best. Our mushrooms are grown from spore to sale on our organic farm in California to help you feel connected to your supplements. Give them a try today and feel the magic of nature’s true medicine support sustained energy, stamina
