Functional mushrooms have been used for centuries for their health benefits, and cacao has been enjoyed for its rich, indulgent taste. But did you know that combining functional mushrooms with cacao in chocolate can offer a whole new level of health benefits? In this blog post, we'll explore the benefits of combining functional mushrooms with cacao in chocolate, and why this delicious combination is a must try for any health food fanatic!
What are functional mushrooms?
Functional mushrooms, also known as medicinal mushrooms, are a group of mushrooms that are known for their health benefits. They have been used for thousands of years in traditional medicine, and recent scientific studies have shown that they contain compounds that can have powerful effects on the body.
Some of the most popular functional mushrooms include:
- Reishi: Known for its immune-boosting and relaxing properties, reishi mushrooms have been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries.
- Chaga: Rich in antioxidants, chaga mushrooms are often used to help support a healthy immune system and overall vitality.
- Lion's Mane: Known for its cognitive benefits, lion's mane mushrooms have been shown to improve memory and focus.
- Cordyceps: Used in traditional Chinese medicine to improve energy levels and athletic performance, cordyceps mushrooms have also been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties.
- Turkey Tail: One of the most widely studied functional mushrooms, Turkey Tail has been shown to have immune-boosting properties and can help support gut health and the immune system.
What are the health benefits of combining functional mushrooms with cacao in chocolate?
When you combine functional mushrooms with cacao in chocolate, you get a delicious treat that is also packed with health benefits. Here are some of the key benefits of this combination:
- Immune system support
Many functional mushrooms, such as reishi and chaga, are known for their immune-boosting properties. When you combine these mushrooms with cacao, you get a tasty treat that can help support your immune system.
- Antioxidant boost
Both cacao and functional mushrooms are rich in antioxidants, which can help protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals. This can help reduce your risk of chronic diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and Alzheimer's disease.
- Cognitive benefits
Lion's mane mushrooms have been shown to improve memory and concentration, making them a great addition to any chocolate treat. When you combine lion's mane with cacao, you get a delicious treat that can also help boost your brain power.
- Anti-inflammatory properties
Cordyceps mushrooms have been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation throughout the body. When you combine cordyceps with cacao, you get a tasty treat that can help reduce inflammation and support energy levels.
- Mood-boosting effects
Cacao is known for its mood-boosting effects, and some functional mushrooms, such as reishi and lion's mane, have also been shown to have calming and relaxing properties. When you combine these ingredients in chocolate, you get a delicious treat that can help improve your mood and reduce stress.
How can you add functional mushroom chocolate into your routine?
If you're interested in trying functional mushroom chocolate, there are a few ways you can do it. Here are some ideas:
- Buy pre-made functional mushroom chocolate
Fungible Chocolates sells pre-made functional mushroom chocolate bars. They currently offer lions mane mushroom chocolate for focus, cordyceps mushroom chocolate for energy, and turkey tail mushroom chocolate for immunity, with reishi and chaga flavors in the works. The bars have 2000mg of functional mushroom extracts and are made with high-quality 85% cacao that's sweetened with coconut sugar for maximum benefits and delight.
- Make your own functional mushroom chocolate
If you're feeling adventurous, you can make your own functional mushroom chocolate at home!
- Add functional mushroom powders to your hot chocolate
If you prefer to drink your chocolate, simply break off 3 pieces of any Fungible Chocolates bar and mix it with hot water for a perfectly sweetened tasty and healthy treat.
It's important to note that not all functional mushroom chocolate is created equal. When choosing a functional mushroom chocolate bar, make sure to read the label carefully and choose a bar made with high-quality ingredients such as 70% + cacao, coconut sugar, 100% fruiting body mushroom extracts, and avoid ingredients that contain added sugars or artificial ingredients.
In conclusion, combining functional mushrooms with cacao in chocolate is a delicious and healthy way to enjoy the benefits of both. From immune system support to mood-boosting effects, there are many reasons to add functional mushroom chocolate to your diet. And with so many different ways to enjoy it, there's no reason not to give it a try. So next time you're craving something sweet, reach for a functional mushroom chocolate bar or make your own at home, and enjoy the benefits of this tasty treat!