β-glucans are the most important aspects to look for when sourcing mushroom supplements.
β-glucan is higher in mushroom extracts from “fruiting body” than the more commercially known mycelium”.
Many supplements use extracts from “mycelium”, which are significantly less in β-glucan than fruiting body extracts!
It is also extremely important for mushrooms to be cultivated in their natural environments.
Each mushroom has a particular source in which it likes to grows on. Some only grow on birch bark, while others on moss or manure.
Cultivated mushrooms on the other hand, are typically grown on rice or cereal grains, depleting β-glucan by more than 50%.
We should also consider increasing absorption of mushroom extracts.
Vitamin C or ascorbic acid should also be taking in combination with the extracts to increase absorption.
Mushrooms are a powerhouse to our immune system and in order to make sure you are getting the maximum benefit, use the quick list below next time you are looking for mushroom supplements.
Checklist:
- Also look for mushroom extracts from “fruiting body”
- Take your supplements with Vitamin C
- Source your mushrooms from North America or Europe to reduce toxin exposure
- Eat plenty of fresh mushrooms from organic sources in your diet