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Does Lions Mane Make You Smarter?

lions mane

Let’s be honest; everyone wants to be that little bit smarter. While most of us joke about being a clever swot, the truth is we’re slightly envious of those who seem to have superior brain cells! But, did you know that super sharp brain power could be yours too, and all you need to do is incorporate a little Lions Mane into your diet? 

Lions Mane or Hericium Erinaceus has powerful anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immune-stimulating properties. According to dusty history books, ancient Buddhist monks are thought to have used this mushroom to enhance brain function and focus while meditating. Traditional Chinese medicine also states that this mushroom is excellent for promoting the health of internal organs such as the heart, kidneys, lungs, and spleen. 

Of course, this may sound like a lot of fairytale mumbo jumbo. But the fact is, many animal and human studies have shown this fungi’s ability to supercharge your brain’s tiny grey cells. 

Brain Boosting Benefits Of Lions Mane 

If you are new to Troop and our gorgeous selection of mushy-gummies, you may still be a little sceptical about their amazing brain-invigorating powers. However, here at Troop, we believe the proof isn’t found in the proverbial pudding but rather in the spore of our fungi-a-licious gummies. So let’s look at the mind-blowing effect of Lions Mane on brain function.

  • Supports Brain Vitality

With age, our brains start to slow down, resulting in memory loss, difficulty concentrating caused by damaged brain cells. And neuron shrinkage. Suddenly forgetting why you entered a room or where you put your glasses or car keys becomes a regular occurrence! But as you search for those dratted keys again, perhaps it’s time to consider Lions Mane gummies. 

Animal studies have shown that Lions Mane supports brain health by stimulating two important compounds, BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor) and NGF (nerve growth factor). These proteins strengthen and promote the development of new and existing cells. 

Further benefits of these proteins include: 

NGF – plays a significant role in developing myelin, the sheath around nerve cells. Which is imperative to proper brain cell function.

BDNF – keeps brain cells soft and pliant and resistant to the negative effects of ageing and stress. 

  • Enhances Focus 

Because of its anti-inflammatory properties, Lions Mane improves blood flow and oxygen supply to the brain. It’s literally a ‘no-brainer’ that the more oxygen the brain receives, the better the brain’s performance, learning ability, and memory. So it’s fair to say that once you incorporate Lions Mane gummies into your diet, losing those keys all the time will be a distant memory! 

But more than simply helping us keep track of mislaid possessions, research has shown that Lions Mane may be beneficial for treating certain diseases that affect our memory, such as Alzheimer’s. 

Alzheimer’s disease is a brain disorder that, over time, destroys thinking skills, memory, and the ability to complete simple tasks. According to a 2016 study on mice, Lions Mane reduces Amyloid plaques (abnormal protein deposits) that destroy and damage brain cells (a primary cause of Alzheimer’s) and improves cognitive function and nerve cell processes. 

  • Reduces Anxiety And Depression

It’s no secret that menopause, lack of sleep, health issues, stress, and trauma can result in anxiety and depression. Individuals suffering from these conditions will confirm that many of their symptoms negatively impact their daily lives. Some of these symptoms include: 

Anxiety Symptoms

  • Uncontrollable worry 
  • Sleep issues
  • Restlessness 
  • Irritability 
  • Fatigue
  • Lack of focus/concentration
  • Tense muscles

Depression Symptoms 

  • Feelings of hopelessness
  • Anxiety 
  • Sleep problems
  • Fatigue
  • Lack of emotional control

A study conducted in 2010 on a group of thirty women showed that the use of Lions Mane for four weeks reduced symptoms of anxiety, irritability, and concentration problems. And we all know that feeling great, well rested, and able to concentrate ensures our brain cells are functioning at optimal and supersonic speed! 

Conclusion

After all that scientific evidence (spore-rific proof), it has to be said that Lions Mane is a mushie definitely worth considering if your brain power is feeling somewhat depleted. Besides, how can you say no to such a health-enhancing, focus-improving, disease-supporting, mood-improving fungi? 

Thankfully, you won’t need to go hunting through the Amazon Jungle, searching for your tasty Lions Mane Fix. Instead, you can enjoy munching on our delicious Lions Mane gummies while boosting those ‘little grey brain cells into action. Move on over, Mr Einstien; you have competition!

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The Rx Review is an independent fitness website, reporting on the Sport of Fitness, functional fitness news, The CrossFit Games, health and diet related information, and also provides reviews on sports performance products.