Shrooms 101
New to the wonderful world of mushrooms? GREAT! Let’s learn something.
Already know why mushrooms are awesome? We’re stoked you’re here!
Mushrooms are a great addition to your dog's diet! They’re nutrient-dense, can boost the immune system, have anti-inflammatory and cancer-fighting properties, promote digestive health, and are low in calories.
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Four Major Healing Functions of Mushrooms
1. Prevention (disease):
Mushrooms are rich in antioxidants, such as ergothioneine and selenium, which help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body. By reducing oxidative stress, mushrooms support overall health and may help prevent chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and neurodegenerative disorders.
2. Regeneration (cells):
Certain mushrooms like Lion's Mane contain compounds that stimulate the production of nerve growth factors (NGF) and promote neurogenesis, the process of forming new nerve cells. This regenerative ability can be beneficial for maintaining cognitive function, improving memory, and potentially aiding in the recovery from neurological conditions.
3. Protection (cancer, radiation):
Mushrooms possess bioactive compounds such as beta-glucans, polysaccharides, and triterpenes that exhibit anti-cancer properties. These compounds can inhibit tumor growth, enhance immune response against cancer cells, and protect cells from DNA damage caused by radiation exposure.
4. Intervention (treatment):
Researchers are exploring mushrooms as potential treatments for various health conditions. Compounds like polysaccharides, terpenoids, and phenolic compounds found in mushrooms have demonstrated anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antiviral effects. They may be used in therapeutic interventions to manage conditions like inflammation, infections, and viral illnesses.
Nutrition in Mushrooms
Here's a breakdown of the nutritional components found in mushrooms and how they benefit your dog's health:
1. Minerals: Mushrooms are rich in essential minerals like potassium, selenium, sulfur, sodium, geranium, zinc, and phosphorus, which support various bodily functions including electrolyte balance, immune function, and bone health.
2. Sugars: Mushrooms contain sugars such as mannitol, xylose, glucose, galactose, and mannose, providing energy and contributing to metabolic processes.
3. Vitamins: They are a good source of B complex vitamins, folic acid, and pro-vitamin D, which play key roles in energy metabolism, cell growth, and immune function.
4. Protein: Mushrooms provide essential amino acids necessary for building and repairing tissues, supporting muscle function, and maintaining overall health.
5. Enzymes: Their antibacterial and proteolytic enzymes help promote digestion, support gut health, and combat harmful bacteria.
6. Lipids: Mushrooms contain beneficial lipids like phospholipids, sterols, sterol esters, free fatty acids, and mono-, di-, and triglycerides, which are important for cell membrane structure, hormone production, and energy storage.
7. Polysaccharides: They contain polysaccharides such as glycogen, beta-D-glucans, and chitin, which have immune-modulating properties and support overall immune function.
8. Triterpenes: These compounds found in mushrooms have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, contributing to overall wellness.
The Different Mushrooms
Lion’s Mane
Lion’s Mane mushroom is known to offer a variety of health benefits for the brain and body, but is best known for it’s support of the brain. In a nootropic capacity, it is considered a powerful brain tonic for enhancing brain power, repairing and creating neurons, and eliminating brain fog. Lion’s mane mushroom is used to support senior dogs with Canine Cognitive Dysfunction, a condition similar to Alzheimer's disease in humans.
Lion’s Mane is especially famous for its ability to stimulate nerve growth factor (NGF). Its neurotrophic properties can help manage some challenging health issues. In fact, another of its nicknames is Nature’s nutrient for the neurons. What this means is that Lion’s Mane can actually improve brain function and memory. It can also stimulate nerve growth and help regenerate damaged nerves.
Turkey Tail
Turkey tail mushrooms are full of beta-glucan polysaccharides. These are the essential sugars in the body that aid in activating the immune system. This can help protect the body from infection and fight off disease.
A study done by the Veterinary School at the University of Penn State looked at the turkey tail mushroom for dogs with hemangiosarcoma, a common cancer found almost exclusively in dogs. Dogs treated with a compound derived from the turkey tail mushroom had the longest survival times ever reported for dogs with the disease. But these mushrooms are good for more than cancer. The benefits of turkey tail mushrooms for dogs include: helping to heal pulmonary disorders, treating inflammation of the urinary and digestive tracts, and decreasing the effects of chemotherapy and radiation.
Cordyceps
Cordyceps have antifungal and antibacterial properties. They also have three protein-bound polysaccharides and several amino acids.
Studies show that cordyceps mushrooms have impressive antitumor properties. They can protect against liver and heart disease as well. Cordyceps are also good for treating: leaky gut syndrome, chronic liver disorders, hyper-lipedema, hypercholesterolemia, kidney failure, cardiac arrhythmias, lung carcinoma, asthma, and geriatric disorders.
Chaga
The main benefit of chaga mushrooms is their effect on the immune system. They have the unique property of not only boosting the immune system when necessary, but they’ll also slow down the immune system that’s running on overdrive – something called a Biological Response Modifier. That’s good news for dogs with over-active immune systems, which can help with the relief of allergies and common autoimmune diseases like arthritis.
Chaga mushrooms are brimming with antioxidants. They contain polysaccharides that boost heart, intestinal and liver health, and also energy levels. They also contain a high number of Beta-D-Glucans, which supplement the immune system, regulate both blood sugar and cholesterol, and help the immune system target cancer cells. They’re also high in B vitamins, enzymes, sterols, and several minerals, like zinc and potassium, which all help to fight free radicals.
Red Reishi
Reishi mushrooms are known as the mushrooms of immortality. They have anti-tumor effects, anti-inflammatory, anti-viral and immune-stimulating properties. This makes them great for boosting overall health. In dogs, Reishi mushroom for dogs can: help improve heart health, improve immune system function, improve liver function, inhibit antihistamine release, improve endurance, help relieve pain.
Reishi mushrooms are typically used to treat: cancer, heart disease, arthritis, allergies, viral upper respiratory tract infections, and compromised immune systems.
Maitake
Maitake means “dancing mushroom” in Japanese. These mushrooms are known to stimulate t-cells, inhibit tumor growth and lower cholesterol. Maitake mushrooms are good for: preventing cancer, supporting the body during chemotherapy and other cancer treatment, helping manage diabetes , and supporting dogs with liver problems.
Stacking
When it comes to stacking functional mushrooms, meaning combining multiple types together, there are several reasons why they complement each other well and how this combination can be beneficial. Mushrooms stack so well due to their diverse bioactive compounds, each offering unique health benefits. When different types of mushrooms are combined, their complementary properties create synergies that enhance overall health outcomes.
1. Synergistic Effects: Different functional mushrooms contain unique bioactive compounds such as polysaccharides, terpenoids, and antioxidants. When combined, these compounds can work synergistically, enhancing each other's effects and providing a broader spectrum of health benefits.
2. Targeted Benefits: Each functional mushroom often has specific health-promoting properties. For example, Reishi mushrooms are known for their immune-supporting properties, Lion's Mane for cognitive function, Cordyceps for energy, and Chaga for antioxidant support. By stacking these mushrooms, you can target multiple aspects of health simultaneously.
3. Comprehensive Support: Stacking functional mushrooms allows for a more comprehensive approach to health. Instead of relying on a single mushroom for all benefits, combining different varieties ensures that you are addressing various health concerns and promoting overall well-being.
4. Adaptogenic Properties: Many functional mushrooms are classified as adaptogens, which means they help the body adapt to stress and maintain balance. By stacking adaptogenic mushrooms, you can further support your dog's ability to cope with physical, mental, and environmental stressors.
5. Diverse Nutrient Profile: Functional mushrooms offer a diverse array of nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients. Stacking different mushrooms ensures that your dog is getting a wide range of nutrients that contribute to overall health and vitality.
6. Personalized Approach: Everyone's health needs are unique, just like our dogs, and stacking functional mushrooms allows for a personalized approach. Depending on your specific health goals and concerns, you can tailor the combination of mushrooms to suit your individual needs.
Different stacks for different stuff
Digestive Health Stack (Lion's Mane + Chaga):
- Lion's Mane: Supports gastrointestinal health by promoting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria and reducing inflammation in the digestive tract.
- Chaga: Soothes the digestive tract, reduces inflammation, and provides antioxidant protection, benefiting overall digestive function.
Joint Health and Mobility Stack (Cordyceps + Red Reishi):
- Cordyceps: Improves circulation, enhances oxygen utilization in muscles, and reduces inflammation, supporting joint health and mobility.
- Red Reishi: Reduces inflammation, provides antioxidant support, and promotes tissue healing, beneficial for joint health and flexibility.
Anti-Inflammatory Stack (Chaga + Turkey Tail + Red Reishi):
- Chaga: Reduces inflammation throughout the body, including joints and tissues.
- Turkey Tail: Provides anti-inflammatory properties, particularly beneficial for immune-mediated inflammation.
- Red Reishi: Reduces inflammation and modulates immune responses, aiding in overall inflammatory balance.
Detoxification Stack (Chaga + Turkey Tail):
- Chaga: Supports liver detoxification and elimination of toxins from the body.
- Turkey Tail: Provides antioxidant support, aids in liver function, and helps detoxify harmful substances.
Heart Health Stack (Chaga + Red Reishi):
- Chaga: Provides antioxidant protection for cardiovascular health, reduces inflammation, and supports blood vessel function.
- Red Reishi: Supports heart health by lowering cholesterol levels, reducing blood pressure, and improving circulation.
Respiratory Health Stack (Turkey Tail + Cordyceps):
- Turkey Tail: Boosts immune function, reducing the risk of respiratory infections and supporting overall respiratory health.
- Cordyceps: Enhances lung function, improves oxygenation, and supports respiratory health, especially beneficial for dogs with respiratory issues.
Skin and Coat Health Stack (Red Reishi + Lion's Mane):
- Red Reishi: Provides antioxidants for skin health, reduces inflammation, and supports a healthy coat.
- Lion's Mane: Promotes healthy skin, reduces skin inflammation, and contributes to a shiny coat.
Allergy Relief Stack (Chaga + Red Reishi + Turkey Tail):
- Chaga: Modulates immune responses, reduces allergic reactions, and provides overall immune support.
- Red Reishi: Helps regulate immune function, reduces allergic responses, and promotes immune balance.
- Turkey Tail: Supports immune function, reduces allergic symptoms, and provides antioxidant protection.
Weight Management Stack (Cordyceps + Chaga):
- Cordyceps: Boosts metabolism, enhances energy levels, and supports weight management by increasing calorie expenditure.
- Chaga: Provides antioxidants, supports metabolic function, and aids in weight management by promoting overall health.
Senior Dog Wellness Stack (Red Reishi + Turkey Tail + Lion's Mane):
- Red Reishi: Supports overall wellness, provides anti-aging benefits, and enhances vitality in senior dogs.
- Turkey Tail: Boosts immune function, aids in cellular health, and supports longevity.
- Lion's Mane: Promotes cognitive function, reduces age-related cognitive decline, and supports senior dog mental well-being.
Gut Health and Digestion Stack (Lion's Mane + Chaga + Red Reishi):
- Lion's Mane: Supports gut health, promotes beneficial gut bacteria, and aids in digestion and nutrient absorption.
- Chaga: Soothes the digestive tract, reduces inflammation, and supports overall digestive health.
- Red Reishi: Supports gut health, provides antioxidants for digestion, and aids in gastrointestinal balance.
Liver Support Stack (Red Reishi + Chaga + Lion's Mane):
- Red Reishi: Supports liver function, aids in detoxification, and provides antioxidants for liver health.
- Chaga: Supports liver detoxification, reduces liver inflammation, and promotes overall liver health.
- Lion's Mane: Supports liver function, aids in digestion, and contributes to overall liver health and function.
Kidney Health Stack (Turkey Tail + Cordyceps + Red Reishi):
- Turkey Tail: Provides immune support, reduces oxidative stress on kidneys, and supports kidney function.
- Cordyceps: Supports kidney function, aids in detoxification, and enhances overall renal health.
- Red Reishi: Supports kidney function, reduces inflammation, and promotes kidney health and well-being.
Diabetes Management Stack (Chaga + Cordyceps + Lion's Mane):
- Chaga: Supports blood sugar regulation, reduces inflammation, and provides antioxidant support for diabetic dogs.
- Cordyceps: Enhances energy metabolism, supports blood sugar balance, and aids in diabetes management.
- Lion's Mane: Supports neurological health, cognitive function, and may help regulate blood sugar levels.
Vision Support Stack (Red Reishi + Lion's Mane + Chaga):
- Red Reishi: Provides antioxidants for eye health, reduces oxidative stress, and supports vision.
- Lion's Mane: Supports eye health, aids in nerve regeneration, and promotes visual acuity.
- Chaga: Provides antioxidant protection for the eyes, supports vision health, and reduces inflammation.
Recovery and Healing Stack (Cordyceps + Turkey Tail + Chaga):
- Cordyceps: Enhances recovery, supports tissue healing, and aids in post-exercise recovery.
- Turkey Tail: Provides immune support for recovery, reduces inflammation, and supports overall healing processes.
- Chaga: Reduces inflammation, provides antioxidants, and supports overall recovery and healing.
Why Mushroom Powders
Mushroom powders offer many advantages over whole mushrooms or capsules.
1. Capsules: Ever try giving your dog pills or capsules? Yeah, let’s move on.
2. Convenience: Mushroom powders can be easily sprinkled over your dog’s food, added to applesauce, peanut butter, goat milk, or any other treat, or mixed with water to make a tea for pouring over food. This eliminates the need to prepare or cook whole mushrooms, making supplementation more accessible and hassle-free.
3. Palatability: Some dogs may find mushroom powder more palatable than whole mushrooms, especially if they have a strong flavor or texture that dogs may not prefer. Mixing the powder with food can mask any potential taste or texture issues, encouraging your dog to consume it more willingly.
4. Digestibility: Mushroom powder is often more digestible for dogs than whole mushrooms. The powder form is finely ground, which can make it easier for dogs to break down and absorb the nutrients, especially for those with sensitive stomachs or digestive issues.
5. Consistency: Mushroom powders provide a consistent dosage of the active compounds found in mushrooms. This ensures that your dog receives a standardized amount of beneficial nutrients with each serving, whereas the potency of whole mushrooms can vary based on factors like freshness and quality.
6. Customization: Mushroom powders allow for customization based on your dog's specific health needs. You can choose powders made from different mushroom species known for their unique benefits, and you can also create custom blends tailored to address specific health concerns or conditions.
7. Longer Shelf Life: Mushroom powders typically have a longer shelf life compared to whole mushrooms, especially when stored properly in a cool, dry place. This means you can keep a supply of mushroom powder on hand without worrying about spoilage or deterioration.
8. Better Absorption: The finely ground nature of mushroom powder can enhance nutrient absorption in dogs. This is because the active compounds are more readily available and can be absorbed more efficiently by the digestive system compared to whole mushrooms, which may require more breakdown before absorption.