The Memory Mushroom
Michael Ventresca • September 22, 2019
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An area of great interest for many of us is the growing research into nootropics – the class of medicines, supplements and other substances that may improve cognitive function, including memory. Today, I’d like to discuss one of these substances, a medicinal mushroom that according to research contains bioactive substances that may protect against Alzheimer’s disease, help relieve symptoms of depression and anxiety and even speed recovery from nervous system injuries.
Lion’s mane mushroom, named for its shaggy appearance, contains two special compounds that can stimulate the growth of brain cells: hericenones and erinacines. It has been shown to reduce symptoms of memory loss in mice, as well as prevent neuronal damage caused by amyloid-beta plaques, which accumulate in the brain during Alzheimer’s disease 1, 2, 3. While there have been no direct studies to date on people with Alzheimer’s, a 2009 study in older adults with mild cognitive impairment
found consuming 3 grams of powdered lion’s mane mushroom daily for four months significantly improved mental functioning. The researchers noted the benefits disappeared roughly four weeks after supplementation ended.
A 2015 study found
lion’s mane mushroom extract has anti-inflammatory effects that can reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression in mice. While yet another study found the extract can stimulate the growth and repair of nerve cells that can help speed recovery from nervous system injuries.
When choosing a lion’s mane supplement, two brands I really like are Host Defense and our own Vital Choice brand.
Both brands offer organic lion’s mane in capsules. Host Defense also offers lion’s mane in a liquid extract, a loose powder (that’s great for smoothies) and in combination formulas that include lion’s mane with other nootropics like ginkgo and bacopa. To learn more, please stop in and see us.
This information is not intended as personal medical advice and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
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Over the years, I’ve tried just about every type of multivitamin out there: tablets, capsules, raw food blends, fermented formulas, you name it. And while many are a clear step above your big-box brands, it’s rare I come across one that actually makes me want to switch. Recently, I started taking the True Grace 50+ Multi , and I’ve been genuinely impressed. First, it checks all the right boxes for me. It’s made with fermented, whole-food-based nutrients that are easier on the stomach and better absorbed. It’s free of synthetic fillers, artificial colors, GMOs, and gluten. What makes this formula stand out is what it offers beyond the basics. This isn’t just another multivitamin with the usual laundry list of nutrients. True Grace 50+ is designed with targeted support for four key areas of healthy aging. You’ll find Lion’s Mane mushroom for brain health, CoQ10 for heart and cellular energy, and MenaQ7 (a patented form of vitamin K2 ) to guide calcium to the bones instead of the arteries. It also includes antioxidants to support long-term vision, which is a growing concern for many of us over 50. What really caught my attention, though, is ergothioneine , a naturally occurring amino acid often referred to as the “longevity vitamin.” It helps protect cells from oxidative stress and supports brain, heart, and skin health. Most multivitamins leave it out entirely or include only a token amount. This formula delivers a full 5 mg per serving, a dose that actually makes a difference. While the 50+ formula is what I personally use, True Grace offers a full line including Men’s and Women’s core multis , 40+ versions , plus a prenatal for moms-to-be. All with the same focus on clean, effective nutrition. Do I still believe in other whole-food-based multis? Absolutely. But this is the first time in a long while I’ve actually made a switch. And I’m glad I did. Mike Ventresca is the owner of Vital Choice Health Store located at 9243 Sprague Road in North Royalton’s Timber Ridge Plaza. The phone number is 440-885-9505 , or visit VChoice.com . This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
