Functional foods are defined as those that can have a beneficial effect on your health going beyond typical nutrition. People have been eating fermented foods such as kimchi and sauerkraut for centuries. Considered functional foods, these staples are beneficial for gut health and help improve digestion.
When we first started investigating functional foods, we added a number of them to our diets. The one that really intrigued us were mushrooms. Lots of initial, promising studies and so much potential. We wanted to give mushroom powder a try, but couldn’t find one that was organic, grown in the U.S., minimally processed and third-party verified for safety -- good for us and mindful of the planet. So, we created The Functionist.
We worked hard to ensure our Organic Mushroom Blend highlights the best of each mushroom so our bodies can reap the maximum rewards. Research around the benefits of mushroom supplements and compounds is limited and still in its early stages, but it is promising. So we’re willing to take a chance that we’re only going to learn more and greater things about what mushroom supplements can do for us.
We’d like to introduce you to the mushrooms in our Organic Mushroom Blend from The Functionist.
Antrodia
Early studies have shown antrodia camphorata to have anti-inflammatory properties. Researchers are studying therapeutic uses for antrodia extracts in the prevention and treatment of cancer and metabolic syndrome.
Himematsutake (agaricus blazei)
These little fungi have been used in traditional medicine to combat infections and allergies. Brimming with beta-glucans -- natural fibers that can help support the immune system -- research is being done into their anti-inflammatory, anti-allergy and even anti-tumor properties.
Chaga
If you’ve done any reading about mushrooms, you’ve heard about chaga. A significant source of antioxidants, chaga mushrooms are being studied for their potential to activate immune cells, reduce inflammation and even as a cancer treatment.
Cordyceps Militaris
These little orange tentacle-like mushrooms are being studied for their enormous potential to benefit the immune, cardiovascular and renal systems as well as its capability as an anti-cancer agent.
King Trumpet
In addition to being utilized by high-end chefs in delicious dishes, King Trumpet mushrooms are packed with antioxidants. Researchers are also investigating their role in supporting the immune system as well as hormone balance.
Lion’s Mane
These furry-looking fungi have been shown to be beneficial to the nervous system, brain and eyes. They are also being studied to determine their effects on memory.
Maitake and Shiitake
Researchers found the combination of maitake and shiitake enhances the immune system.
Reishi
Long considered a super immune booster, research has found significant promise of reishi in the treatment of cancer.
Turkey Tail
We saved the best for last -- it’s called a turkey tail mushroom because it looks just like a turkey’s tail, proudly fanned out. And, according to the National Cancer Institute, compounds found in the mushroom can significantly improve outcome and life expectancy for cancer patients.
We believe in fact-based decision making and following the science. We’re not doctors, we know adding Organic Mushroom Blend from The Functionist isn’t going to directly prevent or cure any disease.
However, we also know that together, these multifunctional mushrooms are a powerhouse of potential.
We add a scoop to our morning coffee, we add a scoop to smoothies, we sprinkle it in our lunchtime cup of soup.
We feel nourished. We hope you will too.