Managing Menopause with Functional Mushrooms

Menopause can bring about symptoms that significantly impact the quality of life for some women. However, several studies suggest that functional mushrooms may help alleviate some of these symptoms. Reishi, Lion’s Mane, and Cordyceps are rich in mycochemicals that may assist women in combating fatigue, mood swings, and memory issues. Furthermore, Chaga mushrooms contain beta-glucans, naturally occurring carbohydrates that can enhance immune defense.

For many women, midlife is a period to excel, be confident, and remain active. Unfortunately, menopause symptoms like mood swings, brain fog, fatigue, and sleep disturbances can hinder this stride. [1,2] Alleviating these issues might be as simple as incorporating small dietary changes. Some women have found relief by including functional mushrooms in their daily regimen. These fungi are packed with beneficial mycochemicals—natural chemical compounds found in mushrooms. [3]

Cognitive Clarity: Lion's Mane Mushroom for Menopause.

One of the more challenging aspects of aging is managing mental health changes. During and after menopause, many women experience "brain fog," memory issues, and mood changes. Scientists believe these problems might be linked to reduced hormone levels, including estrogen. [4,5,6]

Lion's Mane mushrooms contain mycochemical phytoestrogen, which mimics estrogen in the body. Some studies indicate that perimenopausal women consuming Lion's Mane may maintain normal moods, likely because phytoestrogens bind to estrogen receptors in the brain.[6]

Additionally, Lion's Mane contains erinacine A and hericenones C, mycochemicals that may support nerve cell growth. In recent animal studies, these compounds helped older mice regain memory skills.[8,10]

Restful Nights: Reishi Mushroom for Menopause.

Sleep disturbances are common during menopause. Poor sleep quality can lead to several health issues, including weight gain, blood sugar regulation problems, cardiovascular issues, and mood changes.[11]

Several animal studies have linked the mycochemicals in Reishi mushrooms to better sleep quality.[12,13,14] One study showed that mice significantly increased their total sleep time after only three days of taking Reishi. [14]

Another study indicated that improved sleep in animals given Reishi might be related to positive changes in the gut microbiome. Researchers found that Reishi extract increased certain beneficial gut bacteria, which produced chemicals promoting longer sleep times.[13]

Mushrooms like Reishi are also valued as adaptogens—foods that help regulate the body's stress responses, potentially improving sleep quality. However, the exact mechanisms triggering stress relief are not well understood.[15]Indian researchers have suggested that flavonoids and phenols in Reishi mushrooms may be responsible for their stress-reducing properties.[16]

 

Energy Boost. Cordyceps Mushroom for Menopause.

Exercise remains crucial as we age, helping with weight maintenance, bone strength, and muscle mass retention. [17] However, lower energy levels can make fitness routines seem more challenging.

Cordyceps mushrooms can help provide the energy our cells need for various tasks, including exercise. They contain mycochemicals that aid the body in producing adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which translates to more energy for exercise. [18] [19]

Research has shown that Cordyceps can enhance exercise performance. [18] For instance, one study revealed that supplementing with Cordyceps extract for just one week improved high-intensity exercise performance. [20]

 

Strengthen Immunity. Chaga Mushroom for Menopause.

Chaga mushrooms are renowned for their immune-boosting properties, largely due to their high polysaccharide content. These complex sugars stimulate the immune system and reduce inflammation, making Chaga an excellent choice for supporting overall health and reducing the risk of illness or "menopause flu."

Rich in antioxidants, Chaga mushrooms help protect the body from free radical damage and reduce the risk of chronic disease. [21] They boast some of the highest antioxidant levels found in natural food sources, making them an essential addition to your menopause support kit.

Chaga can also help regulate blood sugar levels, particularly important during menopause when hormonal changes affect insulin sensitivity. Additionally, they may support cardiovascular health by lowering cholesterol levels and improving circulation.

Emerging research suggests that Chaga mushrooms may enhance cognitive function and improve memory and concentration, potentially benefiting those experiencing brain fog or other cognitive changes associated with menopause.

The Bottom Line

While menopause symptoms can be disruptive, dietary changes, including the addition of functional mushrooms, may provide relief. Evidence is growing that mushrooms such as Lion's Mane, Cordyceps, Reishi, and Chaga can help with sleep, mood, memory, and energy levels. Incorporating functional mushrooms into your diet may allow you to experience menopause as the graceful rite of passage it should be.

Experience the benefits with our 7 Mushroom Formula.

References