By Richmond Natural Medicine

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June 19, 2020

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How do you support your immune health each day?

Too often, we concern ourselves with our immune health only once there is a problem, rather than taking a preventative approach with our diet and lifestyle each day. What we do each day makes a difference. The western model of medicine is very much an acute model – fixing things immediately when the system is compromised or severe symptoms occur.

Read More: Immune Health Is A Daily Practice

The immune system is a living, breathing, highly complex part of our overall health and wellness. There are so many daily practices that nurture and strengthen our immune health and vitality. Incorporating healthy foods such as adequate protein and nutrient-rich vegetables can be a great start. In particular, vegetables that photosynthesize such as kale, broccoli, and cabbage contain unique nutrients. There are nutrient-rich foods, however, that do not undergo photosynthesis, such as mushrooms (fungi). There is a tremendous benefit to adding medicinal mushrooms to our diets regularly. Here’s why.

Mushrooms and the Immune System

There are approximately 400 species of fungi that have been identified with medicinal properties, and many have antiviral, antimicrobial, or anti-inflammatory qualities. Medicinal mushrooms like reishi, chaga, maitake, shiitake, and oyster mushrooms, all have incredible benefits for our immune function long term and are ideal to take for preventive health. These mushrooms have a long history of medicinal use and have been widely studied for their immune-modulating, cancer-fighting, and anti-inflammatory effects. Some mushrooms also have naturally occurring vitamin D- an essential vitamin for immune function. Most people are deficient in vitamin D due to lack of sunlight/time spent outdoors and do not consume foods rich in vitamin D. Thus, low levels of vitamin D have been found to contribute to a weakened immune system, osteoporosis and negative effects for those with high blood pressure and diabetes.

Read More: How Does Vitamin D Affect Immune Health?

Medicinal mushrooms are an excellent addition to a long term, holistic approach to our immune system. Mushrooms like reishi, chaga, and shiitake are considered immune-modulating, meaning they support the immune system without either stimulating or depleting it. In contrast, herbs like echinacea are immune enhancing – stimulating the immune system for acute situations. It’s important to understand the difference between immune-modulating and immune-enhancing foods because we don’t want to be constantly stimulating the immune system, as this could lead to autoimmune issues and immune imbalance. Rather, we want to balance. We want to modulate and support immune health long term and to match our current health. And this is where medicinal mushrooms can provide support in conjunction with a robust healthy diet and lifestyle practices.

What is the best way to take medicinal mushrooms?

A classic way to enjoy medicinal mushrooms is in a delicious soup or broth. You can use fresh or dried mushrooms such as reishi slices, shiitake, oyster mushrooms, and maitake in your broths and bases for soups and stews. It’s best to let them simmer in filtered water for at least an hour. Add your favorite culinary herbs for flavorings such as rosemary, thyme, sage, fennel, or oregano for a truly delicious mushroom broth that you can either drink like tea or use as a base for vegetable soups. You can also supplement with medicinal mushrooms daily. For specific product or mushroom formula recommendations, consult with your naturopathic doctor or clinical herbalist for the best choices for your specific needs.

Read More: The Naturopathic Approach to Autoimmune Disease

Want to find more ways to support your immune system through diet & lifestyle adjustments? Request an appointment with one of our naturopathic doctors. Submit a request online or call our office, (804) 977-2634.