Functional mushrooms have been a staple of traditional medicine for centuries. Today, these mushrooms have entered the commercial market to benefit many people’s health in different forms, from food and drink to health supplements. In fact, according to market research by Contrive Datum Insights, the global functional mushroom market was valued at $26.7 billion in 2022 and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 10.8% from 2023 to 2030.
This massive growth is not unfounded, with several studies finding positive health properties in functional mushrooms, especially immune health. Several varieties of functional mushrooms can strengthen your immune system and protect you from illness, making it all the more important to consume them. In this article, we’ll visit four methods for boosting your immune system with mushrooms.
Sip on mushroom-infused tea
Tea is a drink well known for being beneficial to health. As reported on the news outlet Today, consuming tea regularly can go as far as reducing the risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease and premature death from any cause, especially stroke. These benefits largely stem from the antioxidant content of the tea, which neutralizes free radicals within the body. Like tea made from tea leaves, mushroom tea can boost your antioxidant levels and power your immune system with beta-glucans, supporting your immune system.
Make meals with medicinal mushrooms
Photo credit to WeKnowRice
One of the best ways to boost your immune system with mushrooms is to include them in your meals. Many traditional Chinese medicines adopt fungi as part of their routine meals alongside other healthy food. For a simple dish, we recommend making mushroom brown rice. Not only is this dish nourishing and loaded with fiber, but it’s simple to make with a rice cooker. Models like the Cuckoo CRP-P0609S rice cooker have an aluminum stainless steel tray, allowing you to steam your mushrooms separately or cook them directly into the rice. Alternatively, you can simply sautée the mushrooms or take a creative step by making plant-based meat using large mushroom caps.
Blend mushrooms into other food and drinks
If you’re not a big fan of the taste of mushrooms, there are still ways to sneak them into your everyday routine. Functional mushroom powders or tinctures can be a great way to add nutrients to drinks you regularly consume, such as coffee or smoothies. You can also blend mushrooms into homemade sauces or dressings using an electric blender. Look for machines like the Vitamix 5200 blender, which provides high performance and ensures the food is creamy and well incorporated.
Photo credit to The New York Times
As we shared previously on Nummies, it’s helpful to be mindful of the type of mushroom or supplement you’re taking to match your needs. For instance, reishi mushrooms have relaxing and destressing properties, which pair well with evening tea. To avoid negative side effects, follow the recommended dosage for each supplement.
Take functional mushroom gummies
There are many ways to consume mushrooms, but for a hassle-free and novel experience, consider taking functional mushroom gummies. Unlike other food supplements, gummies can be eaten as is while staying delicious. Nummies’ Functional Mushroom Gummies are vegan and without additives or filler, ensuring that you maximize nutrition perks without side effects. With just two gummies a day, users can enjoy the benefits of functional mushrooms as protecting neurons in the brain, stress relief, and boosting immune function.
Through regular consumption, functional mushrooms can go a long way in boosting your immune system. You also enjoy other benefits of these fungi, like improved energy levels and cognitive function, boosting your overall quality of life.
Author: Kelly Rourke