Why Mushrooms Help the Brain and Body
Mushrooms aren’t just food — they contain natural compounds that interact with some of the same biological systems your brain and immune system rely on every day. Two species in particular, Lion’s Mane and Chaga, have been studied for how they influence cognitive function, cellular protection, and immune balance.
Here’s what that actually means in plain terms.
Lion’s Mane: How It Supports the Brain
A. Supports pathways linked to NGF (nerve growth factor)
Lion’s Mane contains compounds that appear to activate pathways related to nerve growth factor (NGF). NGF is a protein your body uses to support certain neurons — especially ones involved in memory formation and learning.
Why this matters: These NGF-sensitive neurons help you store new information, recall past information, and keep cognitive processes smooth. Supporting NGF-related activity may help these neurons stay healthy and functional as you age.
Why this matters: These NGF-sensitive neurons help you store new information, recall past information, and keep cognitive processes smooth. Supporting NGF-related activity may help these neurons stay healthy and functional as you age.
B. Helps maintain synaptic plasticity (how the brain adapts)
Synaptic plasticity is your brain’s ability to strengthen connections between neurons. This flexibility is the foundation of learning, memory, creativity, and adaptability.
Why this matters: When synaptic plasticity is supported, your brain stays better at adapting — which helps with focus, problem-solving, and steady mental performance. Lion’s Mane contains compounds being studied for supporting the cellular processes behind plasticity.
C. Provides beta-glucans for immune balance
Beta-glucans are natural fibers found in the walls of mushrooms.
Why this matters: Your immune system has receptors that respond to beta-glucans in a way that supports balance — not “boosting,” not overstimulating. Balanced immune activity helps maintain energy levels and overall resilience.
Lion’s Mane: How It Supports the Brain
A. Supports pathways linked to NGF (nerve growth factor)
Lion’s Mane contains compounds that appear to activate pathways related to nerve growth factor (NGF). NGF is a protein your body uses to support certain neurons — especially ones involved in memory formation and learning.
Why this matters: These NGF-sensitive neurons help you store new information, recall past information, and keep cognitive processes smooth. Supporting NGF-related activity may help these neurons stay healthy and functional as you age.
Why this matters: These NGF-sensitive neurons help you store new information, recall past information, and keep cognitive processes smooth. Supporting NGF-related activity may help these neurons stay healthy and functional as you age.