In This ArticleView AllIn This ArticleWhat Are They?Nutrition FactsHealth BenefitsAdding to Your DietFAQs
In This ArticleView All
View All
In This Article
What Are They?
Nutrition Facts
Health Benefits
Adding to Your Diet
FAQs
While reishi mushrooms have gained attention recently, these fantastic fungi have been used for centuries in traditional medicine for their health-promoting properties.In this article, we dive into the realm of reishi mushrooms, uncovering their nutritional profile, exploring the diverse health benefits they provide and providing you with a nutrition expert’s tips on incorporating these fungi into your diet. Read on to learn more.
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What Are Reishi Mushrooms?
Reishi Mushroom Nutrition
One teaspoon (3-gram) serving of reishi mushroom powder contains:
Health Benefits of Reishi Mushrooms
Immune System Support
However, Kelsey Kunik, RDN, a registered dietitian nutritionist and intuitive eating dietitian atGraciously Nourished, tellsEatingWell, “While many laboratory studies have found these effects, more clinical trials need to be done to confirm their immune-supporting effects.”
Natural Mood Booster
Reishi mushrooms contain compounds that may calm your nervous system and this could help you get a better night’s sleep.Some research suggests that reishi mushrooms may also help alleviate anxiety and depression, offering a natural way to support your mental health.However, more research is needed to substantiate these claims. Always talk to your healthcare team for more individualized advice on any mental health concerns that you have before trying something new.
“Reishi [mushrooms] may improve mood, reduce fatigue and benefit an overall sense of well-being,” states Kunik.
Anti-Cancer Properties
Reishi mushrooms contain compounds called triterpenes and polysaccharides that may have anti-cancer and anti-tumor-development properties, but more research is needed on this subject.While reishi mushrooms aren’t a substitute for medical treatment, they could be valuable to an overall health-focused approach.
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Tips for Including Reishi Mushrooms in a Healthy Diet
Supplementing with reishi mushrooms in powder or capsule form is a convenient way to give your body a therapeutic dose of this healthy fungi without the umami taste. Just make sure you choose a reputable independently verified brand to ensure it’s free from contaminants and contains the amount of reishi it claims. Many specialty and online grocers also stock whole dried reishi mushrooms if you want to include them in your diet in that way.
“There are many drink blends that include reishi, including coffees, teas and protein powders. This can be an easy and convenient way to get this mushroom in your diet daily,” says Kunik.
Here are some examples for how to include more reishi mushrooms in your eating pattern:
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The Bottom Line
These mushrooms, known for centuries in traditional medicine as the “mushroom of immortality,” are a nutritional powerhouse with several potential health benefits. Incorporating reishi mushrooms into your diet may help support yourimmune system, help you sleep better and reduce your cancer risk. Whether sipped as tea, added to dishes or consumed as supplements, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy these fungi.
Speak with your doctor before consuming reishi mushrooms, especially if you’re pregnant, preparing for surgery, taking medication, have an existing health condition or are undergoing medical treatment.
Frequently Asked QuestionsReishi mushrooms offer a range of potential health benefits. Consuming them regularly may help support the immune system, reduce inflammation, promote relaxation, improve sleep and manage stress and anxiety. Additionally, reishi mushrooms may promote heart health and offer antioxidant properties.While reishi mushrooms are generally considered safe, be careful when taking them daily. Some people might experience side effects or drug-nutrient interactions if they’re on medications, and the long-term effects of regular consumption are not extensively studied. If you have underlying health conditions or are taking medications, talk to your health care team before incorporating reishi mushrooms into your daily routine.People who are pregnant or breastfeeding and people preparing for surgery should avoid reishi mushrooms due to potential adverse effects on hormones and blood clotting.Additionally, people with allergies to mushrooms or fungal products should steer clear. If you’re on medication, have autoimmune disorders or are undergoing medical treatments, consult a health care provider before consuming reishi mushrooms.
Frequently Asked Questions
Reishi mushrooms offer a range of potential health benefits. Consuming them regularly may help support the immune system, reduce inflammation, promote relaxation, improve sleep and manage stress and anxiety. Additionally, reishi mushrooms may promote heart health and offer antioxidant properties.
While reishi mushrooms are generally considered safe, be careful when taking them daily. Some people might experience side effects or drug-nutrient interactions if they’re on medications, and the long-term effects of regular consumption are not extensively studied. If you have underlying health conditions or are taking medications, talk to your health care team before incorporating reishi mushrooms into your daily routine.
People who are pregnant or breastfeeding and people preparing for surgery should avoid reishi mushrooms due to potential adverse effects on hormones and blood clotting.Additionally, people with allergies to mushrooms or fungal products should steer clear. If you’re on medication, have autoimmune disorders or are undergoing medical treatments, consult a health care provider before consuming reishi mushrooms.
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Sources
EatingWell uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable and trustworthy.
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U.S. Department of Agriculture. FoodData Central.Organic reishi mushroom powder, reishi
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