As of 2019, an estimated 5.8 million people in the United States are living with Alzheimer’s disease or other types of dementia and millions more are impacted by it. Alzheimer’s is a degenerative brain disease that impacts the mind and memory. Symptoms, such as memory problems, may start out minimal in very early stages and grow increasingly worse to the point of severely limited cognitive function and total memory loss in later stages.
While there is no cure as of yet, research foundations run clinical studies and provide support for patients and their families. Various treatments and supplements like the one mentioned in this super green tonik review are thought to potentially curb symptoms of dementia and maximize cognitive function for as long as possible. Different natural supplements, such as a mushroom supplement, are among these new, experimental treatments. Organic mushroom supplements not only improve your immune system and energy, but can also offer cognitive support, which can be important in the fight against Alzheimer’s disease.
1. Lion’s Mane Mushrooms
Lion’s Mane, which gets its name from its appearance because it actually looks like a lion’s mane, stands out from the rest of medicinal mushrooms when it comes to brain health. This white mushroom with long, tentacle-like hair stimulates the synthesis of the proteins called Nerve Growth Factor (NGF), which support neuron growth and repairs damaged neurons. When NGF is stimulated, it not only helps people with neurological damage, like individuals living with Alzheimer’s Disease, but can actually reverse the damage. Ultimately, lion’s mane promotes development of brain cells. Studies have shown that people who have taken this mushroom can show signs of cognitive improvement.
Lion’s mane can be ordered and consumed as a supplement, which is likely the easiest method of consumption. It is available in capsules, tea and in powder form. This mushroom is also available in grocery stores and can be chopped, sautéed and eaten as food.
2. Reishi Mushrooms
Reishi mushrooms, which have been used in Japanese and Chinese medicine for over 4,000 years, have the strongest anti-aging properties of all the mushrooms. The antioxidant qualities of reishi counteract damaging cell death. These mushrooms can improve brain function by balancing hormones, which helps you feeling positive even when you’re stressed, improves concentration, and allows you to sleep better. The reishi mushroom is typically consumed in a supplement powder form, which can be made into a tea or added into a smoothie. Reishi are also sold in dry form, and can be made into a soup or other types of food.
3. Chaga Mushrooms
The chaga mushroom is another powerful medicinal fungi that can improve brain health and is largely recognized for its antioxidant properties. It specifically improves cognitive function by lowering the oxidative stress on our brains and increasing acetylcholine levels, which play an important role in memory and attention. The reduced inflammation in the brain and increased memory capabilities make chaga a great option for individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease.
4. Cordyceps Mushrooms
The cordyceps mushroom is a rare type of fungi that grows out of the mummified body of a dead caterpillar and has been used in Chinese medicine for over 1,000 years. Cordyceps can improve brain function through its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. This mushroom is typically consumed in the supplementary powder form in smoothies, teas or other foods.
Even though these mushrooms show promise with brain support, memory loss, and regeneration of neurological connections, which have the potential to delay symptoms, it is always recommended to seek professional support when trying new supplements. One of the most important steps you can take when you or a loved one is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s is to find a specialist from amongst the top Alzheimer’s doctors to help guide the process. This might include a variety of practitioners, from neuropsychologists to neurologists. Psychologists can support the emotional process of accepting diagnosis for the patient as well as their family. Neurologists help with understanding how to handle different stages of the disease. With a variety of interventions from mushroom supplements fo professional help, you can help configure a treatment plan and make the acceptance of this degenerative disease as manageable as possible.
