Disclaimer:
This blog post is based on my personal experience and should not be considered medical advice. Consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen.
I had heard about Lion’s Mane mushrooms through a friend years ago and I really wanted to try it. The challenge for me is that I live in Guatemala, so I had to wait to either go to North America to buy some or wait until someone came down for a visit to bring me some.
When I did some research of my own, it all stated that lion’s mane mushrooms helps prevent memory loss and with Alzheimer’s and dementia running rampant in my family, I had to try it. What did I have to lose (er, bad pun there)?
I ordered 2 bottles when I went to Canada, I believe it was a 6 month supply, and began my experiment. I was 60 years old at the time. This is my honest review and my results.
I think it’s important to first understand what exactly Lion’s mane is and what the benefits of Lion’s mane mushrooms are.
What Are Lion’s Mane mushrooms?
Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus) is a unique, shaggy mushroom that resembles a lion’s mane, hence its name. It’s been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries, primarily for its potential to support brain health.
Modern science is beginning to validate these ancient uses, revealing compelling evidence of its neuroprotective and cognitive-enhancing properties.
Why Lion’s Mane for Brain Health?
The primary reason Lion’s Mane is gaining so much attention is its ability to stimulate the production of nerve growth factor (NGF). NGF is a protein that plays a crucial role in the survival and function of neurons.
Why is this so important? To sum it up in plain English, it’s vital for the growth, maintenance, and repair of nerve cells, particularly in the brain.
- Promoting Neurogenesis: Lion’s Mane encourages the creation of new neurons, a process known as neurogenesis. This is particularly important for maintaining cognitive flexibility and adaptability.
- Protecting Against Cognitive Decline: By supporting NGF production, Lion’s Mane may help protect against age-related cognitive decline and neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.
- Improving Memory and Focus: Studies suggest that Lion’s Mane can enhance memory and focus by improving communication between neurons.
- Reducing Anxiety and Depression: Some research indicates that Lion’s Mane may have mood-regulating effects, potentially reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression.
So you can see, Lion’s mane mushrooms do quite a lot!
My 3-Month Experiment: A Personal Journey
I was eager to start my lion’s mane experiment to see if it really does what it says it will do and to see if I would even notice a difference. These are the ones I bought, and I started with one a day at first, though it does say the daily dose is 3 which is equivalent to 1500 mgs.
I needed to take it slow. I didn’t increase my dose until month 2. By month 3, I was at the full recommended dose of 3 capsules a day, equivalent to 1500 mgs.
I just want to make a quick side note there that your diet and daily lifestyle also plays a huge role in your physical and brain health. If you don’t take care of your health, a daily supplement isn’t going to work like a miracle pill.
Week 1-4: Subtle Shifts
In the first couple of weeks, I didn’t notice any dramatic changes. By the end of week 2 going into week 3, I began to feel a subtle shift in my mental state. I found myself more focused during tasks that usually required significant mental effort.
My concentration seemed to improve, and I was less prone to distractions. This is good news for me as I work online and my business takes me in a million different directions in seconds!
Week 5-8: Increased Clarity and Focus
Around the fifth week, and right after I increased my dose to 2 capsules a day, the effects became more noticeable. I experienced a significant increase in mental clarity.
My thoughts felt sharper, and I could process information more efficiently than before. I also noticed a significant improvement in my focus. I could work for longer periods without feeling mentally fatigued or being too distracted by shiny things.
Week 9-12: Enhanced Cognitive Function and Mood
In the final month of my experiment, also when I upped my dose to the recommended 3 capsules a day, I felt like my cognitive function was operating at a higher level. My memory recall seemed faster, and I could learn new information more easily.
I also experienced a subtle but significant improvement in my mood. I felt more balanced and less prone to stress. Oddly enough, I felt calmer and more relaxed in decision making and stress related events.
It was wonderful and weird at the same time.
Summary of the benefits I experienced using Lion’s mane mushrooms after 3 months
- Enhanced Focus and Concentration: I found it easier to stay on task and avoid distractions.
- Improved Mental Clarity: My thoughts weren’t foggy or cluttered like before.
- Increased Memory Recall: I could recall information more quickly and accurately.
- Reduced Mental Fatigue: I could work for longer periods without feeling mentally exhausted.
- Improved Mood: I felt more calm and at peace and less stressed.
My primary focus was to see if Lion’s mane mushrooms made any difference in my brain health, and if I noticed a difference in my mental clarity and I’m pretty happy to say it did that and more.
It’s been 2 years, and I still use them daily, 1500 mgs a day. I stock up when I go to Canada or if anyone is coming down from the US or Canada I order at least 3 bottles. I think I currently have a 9 month supply so I’m good for awhile.
I think it’s also important to note that I did not experience any unusual side effects at all.
Choosing a Lion’s Mane Mushroom Supplement:
If you’re considering trying Lion’s Mane Mushrooms, it’s essential to choose a high-quality supplement. Make sure to speak to your doctor or health care practitioner before trying them to see if they are right for you.
Here’s a good article that will help you find the best supplement for you.
While individual results may vary, I believe that Lion’s Mane is a valuable supplement for supporting brain health and enhancing cognitive function.
