When it comes to medicinal mushrooms, not all products are created equal. Understanding the difference between the mushroom (fruiting body) and the mycelium (vegetative body) is essential to ensure you’re getting the full health benefits these incredible fungi offer.
Fruiting Body vs. Mycelium: What's the Difference?
The fruiting body is the part of the mushroom you’re most familiar with – it’s the reproductive structure and is packed with beneficial compounds like beta-glucans. These powerful compounds support your immune system, help regulate blood sugar, and boost endurance. On the other hand, the mycelium is the vegetative part that grows underground, intertwined with the substrate it feeds on. Products containing mycelium often have high starch content from the grain it grows on, which can dilute the active compounds.
Navigating Supplement Labels
Reading supplement labels can be tricky. While the FDA requires clear labeling of mushroom versus mycelium content, enforcement is not always strict. The American Herbal Products Association (AHPA) offers guidelines for labeling, but these aren’t enforceable. Many brands market mycelium grown on grain, leading to products high in starch but low in medicinal benefits.
The Power of Beta-Glucans
Beta-glucans are the star compounds in medicinal mushrooms. They play a crucial role in modulating your immune system, balancing blood sugar levels, and enhancing overall endurance. Research shows that supplements made from the fruiting body, which are rich in beta-glucans, are far more effective than those containing mycelium on grain.
Choosing the Best Mushroom Supplement
To get the most out of your mushroom supplement, look for products that clearly state they contain the fruiting body and list their beta-glucan content. Avoid supplements with vague labeling or those that contain high levels of starch. Choose brands that are transparent about their ingredients and use extraction methods to maximize bioavailability.
Our Commitment to Quality
When it comes to your health, you deserve the best. By choosing mushroom supplements made from the fruiting body, you can be confident you’re getting a product that delivers powerful health benefits. Explore MycoRemy’s range of high-quality supplements and experience the difference for yourself.
At MycoRemy, we’re dedicated to providing you with the highest quality mushroom supplements. Our products contain only the fruiting body and are free from fillers and grain. We clearly label our beta-glucan content to ensure you’re getting the potent, beneficial compounds you need for optimal health.