Eating this common veg can improve your memory, mood and sleep

Adding mushrooms to your diet can help you relax and even build up your immune system

Eating this common veg can improve your memory, mood and sleep

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Health gurus are touting one particular vegetable as a game-changer for better sleep, reduced stress levels, and enhanced memory. Research points to mushrooms being packed with health benefits.

The Lion's Mane mushroom (Hericium erinaceus) is especially prized in both the culinary world and traditional medicine, particularly in Asian countries. Its unique look, which mimics the shaggy mane of a lion as it grows, is the inspiration behind its name.

In Britain, the Lion's Mane is protected under Schedule 8 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, which means it's illegal to forage these mushrooms from their natural habitats. Instead, they're available for purchase in stores and markets.

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These versatile fungi can be eaten raw or processed into a powder form that's commonly mixed into drinks like coffee. Lion's Mane mushrooms are said to enhance sleep quality, reduce fatigue, support the immune system and improve mental functions, including memory.

Sleep specialist and CEO of Mattress Next Day Martin Seeley said: "We know there are a lot of nutritional benefits to adding mushrooms to your diet and an easy way to do this is adding powder to your morning coffees. The studies suggest this improves your brain function, as well as the immune system, so you're ready to start the day."

Four beneficial effects of mushrooms

Lion's Mane mushrooms aren't the only fungi with health benefits. In fact, mushrooms in general are packed with essential vitamins and minerals that can boost your immune system and support various bodily functions.

Experts at Mattress Next Day have highlighted four ways including mushrooms in your diet can improve sleep and overall wellbeing.

Try Lion's Mane mushrooms for better sleep

One of the key benefits of Lion's Mane mushrooms is their ability to promote good sleep without causing drowsiness. This is thought to be due to their effect on the nervous system, reducing anxiety and making it easier to fall asleep.

Some studies suggest that Lion's Mane mushrooms could also enhance brain function, potentially speeding up the onset of REM sleep and improving sleep quality. It's also suggested that this mood-boosting effect could lead to healthier sleep patterns.

If you're thinking about adding Lion's Mane supplements or powders to your diet, it's a good idea to speak to a healthcare professional, such as your GP, especially if you're worried about potential interactions with other medications.

Boost your vitamin D intake with mushrooms

Adding mushrooms to your diet could potentially increase your vitamin D intake. Research suggests that exposing mushrooms to sunlight before eating them can boost their Vitamin D2 content thereby increasing your intake.

It's important to maintain sufficient levels of vitamin D, especially during the UK's winter months due to the weather conditions. Including foods like mushrooms in your diet not only helps address vitamin deficiencies but also aids in regulating sleep patterns.

Shiitake and Reishi mushrooms may help you relax

Shiitake and reishi mushrooms are known for their potential to enhance sleep quality. Shiitake mushrooms contain compounds such as lentinan and eritadenine which are recognised for their antioxidant properties that aid relaxation.

Shiitake mushrooms are thought to have anti-inflammatory properties which could contribute to improved sleep quality. Studies on reishi mushrooms suggest they can extend total sleep time, promote relaxation and reduce fatigue.

However, it's recommended you seek advice from a healthcare professional before taking reishi, particularly if you're on medication, as it may interact with certain drugs.

Mushrooms can help strengthen your immune system

Including mushrooms in your diet can contribute to a stronger immune system. These fungi are packed with essential nutrients that support immune health. Consuming selenium-rich mushrooms can help your body produce antioxidant enzymes, protecting cells from harm.

Selenium is a naturally occurring element found in various foods and can also be taken as a supplement. It's an important component of several enzymes and proteins, known as selenoproteins. These compounds play key roles in DNA synthesis and protect cells from damage and infections. Eating foods that boost the immune system can help maintain regular sleep patterns, as sickness often interferes with our sleep.

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