We often get asked if taking lion’s mane mushroom is healthier to take with or without food. You can take it with or without a meal, whatever works best for you!
There are some factors you need to take into account, however. Let us dig deeper into this subject.
What are Lion’s Mane Mushrooms?
Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus) is a medicinal mushroom that has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine, and is still known to be one of the healthiest mushrooms available in alternative medicine. This species of mushroom grows in colder climates, native to northern parts of Europe and Asia, and to North America, where it grows on the remains of dead trees.
Research into benefits of lion’s mane mushroom indicates that the mushroom has the potential to stimulate neural growth by producing neural growth factor (NGF) proteins, as well as repairing brain cells. It appears to combat inflammation and oxidation, lower blood sugar levels, as well as enhance mental functions and neuronal health.
Should You Take Lion’s Mane On an Empty Stomach?
You can take Lion’s mane mushroom when you are eating, or on an empty stomach. Fresh lions’ mane is typically eaten with food, whereas people typically take lion’s mane powder, extracts, and supplements on an empty stomach in the early morning.
Taking Lion’s Mane Mushroom Powder
Lion’s mane mushroom powder works best taken in the morning, on an empty stomach. However, doing this can lead to digestive issues, although it’s very rare. If you do experience some side effects, try mixing powdered substances in a big smoothie to help alleviate any issues if you have a sensitive stomach.
Taking Lion’s Mane Mushroom Supplements
You should consume Lion’s mane mushroom supplements either in the morning or in the early afternoon in order to get this mushrooms energy-boosting effects. Most people take lion’s mane capsules and other supplements along with their daily vitamins. If your stomach is already used to vitamins, taking lion’s mane supplements should cause no digestive problems, especially if you have eaten a meal shortly before or after taking it.
What is The Best Way to Consume Lion’s Mane?
There is no single, most superior way of consuming lion’s mane mushroom. You may even want to combine several ways to take Lion’s Mane. For instance, create a recipe using cooked lion’s mane, find a nourishing food that you enjoy, and enjoy lion’s mane tea whenever you need a refreshment.
Lion’s mane tinctures are actually the most potent way to get the highest concentration of the healthy compounds found in lion’s mane mushroom into your body. This is true for many different substances, but due to the liquid extracts ability to enter your blood stream faster than powders or other forms of the supplement, we alway recommend tinctures to anyone looking for the most potent form of lion’s mane.
What is the Best Time of Day to Take Lion’s Mane?
It is best to take Lion’s mane in the early morning or in the afternoon. That way, you get the full benefits of it is energy and cognitive enhancing benefits all day long. You can definitely take lion’s mane late in the day, as it’s actually been shown to improve sleep quality. So you do not need to worry about it keeping you awake all night or causing insomnia.
Can You Take Lion’s Mane Mushroom Every Day?
Not only is it totally safe, it is also extremely healthy to take lion’s mane mushrooms daily. While you may experience some benefit from lion’s mane after one dose, the real health benefits are experienced through prolonged, consistent use as the beneficial compounds from the mushroom build up in your body over time.
You can find our favorite capsules, powders, and tincture’s on the following pages of our website and learn more about each individually:
Click here for Our Favorite Lion’s Mane Supplements
Click here for Our Favorite Lion’s Mane Powders
Click here for Our Favorite Lion’s Mane Tinctures
Click here for Our Favorite Lion’s Mane Gummies
Additional Resources:
Updated 10/12/2022