Whether you are trying to fight a specific illness or simply trying to avoid getting sick, you might be thinking of different ways to get immune support. Well you're not alone. Sometimes, it feels like nothing is working and you really need to get outside of the box. Today, we'll explore a few fungi that might be the solution you've been looking for.

Mushrooms for immunity have gained a lot of attention over the last few decades, especially with a greater understanding of functional mushrooms and how they work. Could mushrooms be the key to supporting your immune system? Here at Team Troomy we've pulled together a few details on the benefits of mushrooms for immunity to help you decide. 

Mushrooms and Immunity: Why Mushrooms for Immune Support?

The benefits of mushrooms for immunity is a topic that has spanned centuries. Even before the exact compounds and constituents were well-established or understood, many species of mushrooms were prized for their potential functions as medicine or for their therapeutic properties. These functional mushrooms have value far beyond nutritive content, and, today, we have a better understanding of why that is the case. 

Mushrooms are rich in a long list of beneficial compounds and nutrients that may be hard to obtain from other food sources. What researchers have been able to pin down is that many of these elements offer benefits for the immune system. From beta-glucans to powerful antioxidants, the fungus growing in the world around us can be rich in a number of agents the immune system needs for optimal function. 

A Closer Look at the Immune System 

The human immune system is a large and highly complex network of organs, cell tissues, and substances that help the body counteract illness and infections. In a sense, your immune system is like a battalion fighting together. Each with different functions, they go to battle when certain viruses enter the body. These viruses are agents identified as a threat, such as viral cells or harmful bacteria, that can rapidly attack or migrate into whatever form the immune system can handle. This is your body's built-in defense, but just like any battalion, the immune system must have the proper weapons to fight. 

The "weapons" the immune system uses are things like antibodies and defensive proteins. In order to create these weapons and respond appropriately, the immune system needs all the critical elements in place. This is where your everyday nutritive intake comes into play. A long list of vitamins and minerals hand-deliver what the immune system needs, such as vitamin C and zinc. However, certain agents can be harder to come by in the general diet, which is where mushrooms for immunity could be valuable. 

Mushrooms for Immunity: Best Mushrooms for Immune Support 

When it comes to picking mushrooms for immunity, you don't have to look far to find a variety that has something to offer. Check out the top mushrooms known for offering immune support and why. 

Chaga 

Chaga mushrooms are often referred to as fungi powerhouses when it comes to antioxidants. So, impressive immune support is to be expected. Several studies have looked at Chaga mushrooms immune support. One study, in particular, found that Chaga extracts enhanced the immune system of mice who were undergoing chemotherapy. Studies suggest that Chaga promotes the creation of white blood cells (important for fighting viruses and bacteria), and promotes cytokines production to potentially regulate immune system responses. 

Cordyceps 

Cordyceps are kind of known as the all-around go-to for general support to your body's wellness. However, Cordyceps is most recognized because the fungus is said to help the body use oxygen in a more efficient way to support adequate blood flow. That increase in blood flow can potentially improve physical performance and energy uplift. Additionally, Cordyceps may also be good for your immune system. Several studies have indicated that the enzymes and compounds in Cordyceps may stimulate important immune system actions. 

Maitake 

Maitake mushrooms are rush in beta-glucans, antioxidants, and valuable vitamins and minerals. With a name that means "the dancing mushroom" in Japanese, Maitakes may truly keep you dancing longer, feeling better, and more. Maitake mushrooms have been shown to stimulate the defense reactions of the immune system, especially when combined with other functional mushrooms like Shiitake. 

Lion's Mane 

If you were to spot Lion's Mane mushrooms with their pom-pom-like structure, you may not suspect such a poof growth would offer so much value to human health. However, Lion's Mane is an excellent option if you want both cognitive system and immune system support. This mushroom is made up of many biologically-active ingredients, including alkaloids, polysaccharides, lactones, and more. While how Lion's Mane supports the immune system may be multifaceted, scientists have suggested this mushroom may support immunity primarily by positively influencing the digestive tract. 

Reishi 

Reishi is easily one of the most popular mushrooms when it comes to functional fungi, and for good reason. Reishi has a lot of proposed benefits for both the mind and body, including offering compounds that may boost your mood. On top of those mood boosts, Reishi is also an all-star fungi when it comes to immune system support. Reishi has been shown in some studies to fight abnormal cells and stabilize the immune system, and possibly even promote healing due to unique triterpenes.

Turkey Tail 

Turkey Tail is probably one of the more generic-looking mushrooms, but still looks like the holiday favorite turkey. This beautiful fungus is particularly rich in PSK (polysaccharide-K). PSK is a turbo-shot for the immune system and has been shown in animal studies to beef up the intestinal immune system in mice. Turkey Tail mushrooms are also rich in important antioxidants that help fight free radical damage in the body. Therefore, this specific fungus is a good addition to your everyday regimen if you are trying to deter illness. 

What Is the Best Way to Support the Immune System with Mushrooms?

With so many mushrooms offering potential support for your defense system, you may be tempted to head to the farmer's market and stock up. However, that can be a ton of extra work on your end.

With all the added prep time, cooking, and preparing the mushrooms to be served, chances are you're going to get more than you bargained for. Luckily, there's a quick alternative to get these superfoods into your diet today.

The best way to work functional mushrooms into your daily intake is with supplements. For example, mushroom gummies deliver the valuable extracts from mushrooms the body can use, so you don't have to consume loads of fungus every day. 

Additionally, gummies take no prep time, and also offer fruity flavors at wallet-friendly values. Overall, you can keep your wallet happy and your body happier, and it's super easy to get started.

Try Troomy Nootropics for Immunity Today!

Troomy Nootropics offers a collection of mushroom gummies made with individual mushroom varieties or mushroom blends. For example, Troomy Boost is made with Cordyceps, while Troomy Daily is made with 14 different super mushrooms. This means you can pick and choose which mushrooms you want to try for immune support. Depending on your needs, carefully consider what means the most to you today. What's missing in your routine? Are you struggling to wake up in the morning? Do your days drag? How's your sleep?

All of these issues get much simpler when you have adaptogenic mushrooms working wonders for you. Our gummies are full-spectrum (made with fruiting bodies and mycelium), USDA organic, and 100 percent vegan. 

Now is no time to wait. Check out our functional mushroom gummies for boosted immunity and other needs here, and start finding your "True Me" today!