Reishi Mushroom

Reishi mushroom, also known as Ganoderma lucidum and lingzhi, is an adaptogenic herb that grows in various hot and humid locations in Asia. 

Reishi mushroom has been scientifically proven to boost the immune system - it may positively influence the genes in white blood cells, a critical component of immune health. This is because it contains several molecules that promote health—triterpenoids, polysaccharides and peptidoglycans. 

Reishi mushroom is used for cancer aging, heart health and blood sugar control besides boosting the immune system to prevent or treat infections. 

In combination with other herbs, reishi mushroom is used to treat prostate cancer. Also in combination with other ingredients, reishi mushroom may be used for viruses, such as the human papilloma virus (HPV), genital herpes and cold sores.

Boost the Immune System
One of the most important effects of the reishi mushroom is that it can boost our immune system.

Research in cancer patients has shown that some of the molecules found in the mushroom can increase the activity of a type of white blood cell called natural killer cells.

Another study found that reishi can increase the number of other white blood cells (lymphocytes) in those with colorectal cancer.

Also in one study, this fungus improved lymphocyte function, which helps fight infections and cancer, in athletes exposed to stressful conditions.

Anti-Cancer Properties
One study of over 4,000 breast cancer survivors found that around 59% consumed reishi mushroom. Some research has investigated if reishi could be beneficial for prostate cancer due to its effects on the hormone testosterone.

Reishi mushroom has also been studied for its role in preventing or fighting colorectal cancer.

Some research showed that one year of treatment with reishi decreased the number and size of tumors in the large intestine.

Fight Fatigue and Depression
One study examined its effects in 132 people with neurasthenia, a poorly defined condition associated with aches, pains, dizziness, headaches and irritability.

The researchers found that fatigue was reduced and well-being was improved after 8 weeks of taking the supplements.

Another study found that fatigue was reduced and the quality of life was improved after 4 weeks of taking reishi powder in a group of 48 breast cancer survivors.

Heart Health
One 12-week study of 26 people showed that reishi mushroom may increase “good” HDL cholesterol and decrease triglycerides.

Blood Sugar Control
Several studies have indicated that molecules found in the reishi mushroom can decrease blood sugar in animals.

Zinc for Immune Function

Zinc is required for numerous processes in our body, including:

• Gene expression

• Enzymatic reactions

• Immune function

• Protein synthesis

• DNA synthesis

• Wound healing

• Growth and development        

In regard to its immune function, zinc helps keep our immune system strong. It stimulates particular immune cells and reduce oxidative stress.  It significantly reduce the risk of infections and promote immune response in older adults. A review of several studies demonstrated that 80–92 mg per day of zinc may reduce the length of the common cold by up to 33%.  Because it is necessary for immune cell function and cell signaling, a deficiency of it can lead to a weakened immune response.

Many animal and plant foods are naturally rich in zinc, making it easy for most people to consume adequate amounts. Foods highest in zinc include:

• Shellfish: Oysters, crab, mussels, lobster and clams

• Meat: Beef, pork, lamb and bison

• Poultry: Turkey and chicken

• Fish: Flounder, sardines, salmon and sole

• Legumes: Chickpeas, lentils, black beans, kidney beans, etc.

• Nuts and seeds: Pumpkin seeds, cashews, hemp seeds, etc.

• Dairy products: Milk, yogurt and cheese

• Eggs

• Whole grains: Oats, quinoa, brown rice, etc.

• Certain vegetables: Mushrooms, kale, peas, asparagus and beet greens

Please note that animal products, such as meat and shellfish, contain high amounts of zinc in a form that our body easily absorbs.

Dietary Reference Intakes of Water, Salt and Potassium

According to the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine in US, prolonged physical activity and heat exposure will increase water losses and therefore raise daily fluid needs. Actually, an adequate daily fluid intake is about 2.7 liters (91 ounces or 11.5 cups) of total water for women -- from all beverages and foods -- each day, and men an average of approximately 3.7 liters (125 ounces or 15.5 cups daily) of total water. 

Water is important because hydration has a huge impact on our overall health. After all, over 50% of our bodies are water. So we need to stay hydrated so all our cells and organs can function properly. If we do not drink enough water, it can lead to health concerns in the long run. Even minor dehydration can leave us feeling fatigued, affect mood and impact cognitive performance.

In summary, our body uses water for everything:

• Digestion
• Fluid & Mineral Balance
• Body Temperature
• Healthy Blood Plasma Levels
• Waste Removal - detoxification
• Lubrication & Protection
• Weight Loss - one study showed that after drinking 500 ml (16.9 ounces) of water, participants experienced a 30% increase in metabolic rate after 10 minutes, which lasted around 30 to 40 minutes.

In addition,the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine establishes nutrient recommendations on salt and potassium to maintain health and reduce chronic disease risk. 

Salt
Healthy 19- to 50-year-old adults should consume 1.5 grams of sodium and 2.3 grams of chloride each day -- or 3.8 grams of salt -- to replace the amount lost daily on average through sweat and to achieve a diet that provides sufficient amounts of other essential nutrients.The tolerable upper intake level (UL) for salt is set at 5.8 grams per day. 

Older people with chronic diseases including hypertension, diabetes, and kidney disease are especially sensitive to the blood pressure-raising effects of salt and should consume less than the UL.

Potassium
Adults should consume at least 4.7 grams of potassium per day to lower blood pressure, blunt the effects of salt and reduce the risk of kidney stones and bone loss.