AFS Introduces MycoThrive™ Lion's Mane: A Clinically Studied Ingredient for Cognitive Performance
July 13 2024 - 11:55AM
Applied Food Sciences (AFS) is proud to announce the launch of
MycoThrive™ Lion's Mane, a groundbreaking functional ingredient
recently clinically studied to enhance cognitive performance and
emotional well-being. This launch marks an advancement in the
natural supplements industry for those seeking functional mushrooms
that may boost their mental acuity and mood.
First-of-its-kind Clinical Study
In a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled crossover
study, 40 healthy adults were evaluated to determine the acute
(single-dose) effects of 1000 mg of lion's mane mushroom extract on
cognitive performance and mood. The study introduces MycoThrive™
Lion's Mane (previously known as "Nordic Lion's Mane") as a potent
new addition to AFS' innovative lineup of functional
ingredients.
Understanding Lion’s Mane
Lion's Mane (Hericium Erinaceus) is renowned for its
cognitive-enhancing properties and long history of use in Eastern
medicine. Known as the "Mountain Priest" or "Smart Mushroom," its
bioactive compounds, including β-glucan polysaccharides, proteins,
hericenones, and erinacines, all play a role in how the ingredient
functions in the human body.
"AFS takes pride in offering scientifically validated,
high-quality ingredients," explains Loretta Zapp, CEO of Applied
Food Sciences. "After extensive research on the science of fungi,
we developed a love for mushroom ingredients and took on the
challenges of creating consistent mushroom extracts standardized to
their active compounds. Although the mushroom category is growing
in the US, much still needs to be discovered about the scientific
and quality aspects. Therefore, we are thrilled to enter this space
with significant investment by offering our innovative line of
MycoThrive™ mushroom ingredients and conducting the clinical
studies needed to bring more validation to the market."
Study Methodology
The study examined the effects of a single dose of 1000 mg of
MycoThrive™ Lion's Mane extract next to a 650 mg dose of guayusa
extract (AmaTea® Max) and a placebo. Participants were tested at
baseline, 60 minutes, and 120 minutes post-ingestion using
comprehensive neuropsychological assessments like the Go/No-Go,
Serial-Sevens, and N-Back tasks, as well as subjective measures for
cognitive perception and mood.
Results of MycoThrive™ Lion's Mane
Participants taking MycoThrive™ Lion's Mane demonstrated acute
improvements in working memory, attention, concentration, and
reaction time, with results noticed in as little as one-hour
post-ingestion. The results were statistically significant compared
to the placebo. Additionally, participants taking MycoThrive™
Lion's Mane recorded enhancements in mood scores such as "feelings
of happiness," reflecting that the ingredient had a significant
impact on their emotional well-being. To see the entire study
summary and results, please visit the [link to the full article on
the website].
The Importance of this Study
This study is pivotal in understanding the acute, single-dose
response of lion's mane in healthy adults. The results contrast the
prevailing notion that Lion's Mane only produces chronic benefits
after 30-60 days of use. While chronic use is still advantageous,
this research provides valuable insights that help reinforce the
credibility of MycoThrive™ Lion's Mane as a more immediate-acting
nootropic for manufacturers to use in their cognitive-enhancing
products. Moreover, it helps address the pressing need for
transparency by providing more consistent structure-function
claims, reducing skepticism, and increasing confidence in the
market.
About Applied Food Sciences
For over 20 years, Applied Food Sciences has been a leader in
providing innovative functional ingredients to the natural products
industry. The company is excited to announce its collaboration with
some of the world's leading mycologists to extend its expertise
into functional fungi with the launch of MycoThrive™ Lion’s Mane.
This new and exciting ingredient is part of the MycoThrive™ line of
premium functional mushrooms that also includes cordyceps, chaga,
reishi, maitake, and shiitake. Visit [AFS website link] to learn
more about the MycoThrive™ Lion's Mane clinical study and the
entire AFS ingredient portfolio.
- MycoThrive™ Lion's Mane by AFS
- Clinically Studied Lion's Mane Extract: MycoThrive™ Lion's Mane
by AFS
Brian Zapp
Applied Food Sciences, Inc.
1 (800) 345-9666
media@appliedfoods.com