If you're an athlete or someone who leads an active lifestyle, you may have heard of Cordyceps, the medicinal mushroom that has been gaining a following in the fitness community for its potential to aid athletic performance and recovery.
Cordyceps is a type of fungus that grows on the larvae of certain insects The Chinese first discovered its medicinal benefits, using it to treat a variety of conditions, including fatigue, respiratory issues, and low libido.
Now, the spotlight is turning on cordyceps in the athlete community for its potential to boost energy, increase endurance, and support recovery. Let’s take a deeper look at how it works, and why it may just be the final piece of the puzzle in your fitness regime:
Increased oxygen uptake: Cordyceps contains a compound called cordycepin, which has been shown to improve the the body uses oxygen during exercise. Greater oxygen uptake leads to improved endurance and performance, allowing you to train harder and go further.
Reduced inflammation: Cordyceps contains compounds called polysaccharides, which have been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties. Reducing inflammation is very important, since it will help prevent muscle soreness, fatigue, and other symptoms that can impede athletic performance.
Improved recovery: We all know by now that recovery is absolutely essential for long term achievements. Cordyceps contains compounds that have been shown to improve circulation and reduce oxidative stress, helping your body repair and regenerate tissues more effectively after intense workouts or competitions.
Research into Cordyceps’ effects on athletic performance and recovery is still in the early stages, but studies are pointing to promising signs that it may provide a natural way to improve endurance, reduce inflammation, and enhance recovery, making it an exciting new tool in an athlete’s training routine.