Lion's Main Mushrooms For Brain Health

Plus an Apple & Flaxseed Muffin recipe!

Happy Friday! This week, we covered some interesting topics: On Monday, we took a look at how to practice mindful eating. We also shared some healthy muffin recipes, including our free Blueberry Oat Muffins recipe, available to all our readers. We also offered a how-to video on roasting pumpkin seeds!

On Wednesday, we covered the purported benefits of kombucha and what we think about it (plus some other beverages to try), and Diana shared her insights on drinking water during pregnancy, as well as filter options she suggests. Read all about it, and join in on the conversation in the Nourished Mama Collective.

Today, we are looking at a mushroom that may be beneficial for your brain health. We’re also offering up our kitchen recommendations (including our favorite kombucha brand) and are giving our paid subscribers a new recipe: Apple Muffins. Enjoy!

We want to know: What is your favorite muffin recipe? Share in the comments!

(P.S. Become a paid subscriber to join the full conversation.)

Food as Medicine: Lion’s Mane Mushrooms and Brain Health

We’re both big fans of mushrooms, for both their taste and their medicinal properties. Lion’s Mane mushrooms are one standout, as these culinary mushrooms have impressive health benefits. Lion’s Mane may help improve mild cognitive impairment and promote nerve growth, and has also been shown to reduce anxiety and enhance sleep. Learn more about the link between Lion’s Mane and the health of your brain - and try the recipe, Lion’s Mane Mushroom Sauté with Garlic & Greens.

4 Ways Lion’s Mane Mushrooms May Promote a Healthy Brain

1. Supports nerve growth factor (NGF). Lion’s mane contains compounds called hericenones and erinacines, which stimulate the production of NGF. This is essential for the growth, repair, and survival of neurons, which may support learning, memory, and overall brain function.

2. May help improve cognitive function. Preliminary research suggests lion’s mane may help improve memory and focus in older adults, and possibly reduce mild cognitive impairment. Animal studies show potential protection against Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease-related changes, although human studies are still limited.

3. Provides anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits. By reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain, lion’s mane may protect against age-related cognitive decline.

4. May improve mood and mental health. Some evidence shows lion’s mane may reduce anxiety and depression symptoms, likely due to its anti-inflammatory effects and impact on brain plasticity.

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Weil Nutrition Corner™ Takeaway: Adding Lion’s Mane to your diet is a delicious way to help support your brain health, along with other benefits. We suggest sauteing lion’s mane in olive oil and adding some salt and pepper to taste. It makes for a great side dish! You can also supplement with lion’s mane for a more concentrated dose.

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Free Recipe: Lion’s Mane Mushroom Sauté with Garlic & Greens

This recipe delivers Lion’s Mane’s brain-boosting benefits, garlic for immune health, and leafy greens for antioxidants and minerals - all in one quick, anti-inflammatory side or light meal.

Every Friday, we share a quick roundup of products we actually use and love - whether in the kitchen, at the table, or while shopping. These are the tools and staples that make cooking, serving, and clean-up easier and more enjoyable.

Mushroom & Company Multipurpose Umami Seasoning Blend. While this doesn’t include Lion’s Mane, it is a delicious blend of mushrooms and spices that lends a good umami flavor to pastas and sauces. - Dr. Weil

Health-Ade Kombucha. If I’m going to buy kombucha, this is typically the brand I get. I love all the flavors, plus they don’t use any artificial carbonation methods. - Diana

Garden Master Expandable Food Dehydrator. If you want to dry your own mushrooms, this dehydrator is a good option. - Diana

Apple & Flaxseed Muffins

These apple & flaxseed muffins make a great snack and are perfect for kids! They are relatively high in fiber and low in sugar, but if you’re craving something a bit sweeter, feel free to add a touch more maple syrup. These make for a great snack on the go!