Why Turkey Tail is your new teammate
Turkey Tail is a functional mushroom that acts as a prebiotic to support gut health. (The gut is a so-called "second brain," which refers to the enteric nervous system (ENS), helping athletes maintain mood and a healthy response to stress.) It also supports the immune function by reinforcing the more than 70% of the body's immune cells that exist in the digestive system. Turkey Tail has a rich history in traditional medicine, particularly in Chinese and Japanese cultures, where they have been used for centuries in teas and tonics to boost the immune system and promote overall well-being. What’s more, their concentric rings of striking colors have inspired various forms of art, from paintings to textile designs.
Makes us think of… Cory Sandhagen
Cory "Sandman" Sandhagen, the UFC bantamweight title contender, serves as a powerful metaphor for the benefits of Turkey Tail mushrooms. Sandhagen famously stays cool and focused, even in the intense pressure of the octagon. His remarkable combination of size, agility, and skill is matched only by his apparent resilience, able to stay at the top of his game, no matter which fighter he’s facing. And we love that Sandhagen has equal parts fierce confidence and appealing openness. His is the most tell-it-like-it-is social media account in the MMA world.
Benefits of Turkey Tail for Athletes
Strong Immune System
More than half of the body's immune cells reside in the gut. Turkey Tail is loaded with compounds that give the immune function a pep talk, helping give a vital boost to athletes who need to stay healthy to maintain consistent training and performance levels.
Mood and Stress Management
The body's “second brain” plays a role in managing stress. Athletes often face intense physical and mental stressors, and a well-functioning second brain can help modulate the body’s response to those stressors. The second brain also produces neurotransmitters like serotonin, which can influence mood. So a healthy gut can contribute to a positive mental state, which is essential for motivation, focus, and mental resilience.
When to take Turkey Tail functional mushrooms
Times when athletes can consider using Turkey Tail to help with recovery:
- Daily, in the evening: Use Turkey Tail as a part of a daily evening routine. Consistency is key. Taking it every day can help build the strength of the immune system and manage stress over time.
- Post-workout: Turkey Tail can help digestion and nutrient absorption, ensuring that their bodies efficiently utilize the nutrients needed for muscle repair and recovery
- During illness or injury: When an athlete is dealing with illness or injury, Turkey Tail can help strengthen the immune system's response, facilitating a faster recovery and return to training.
- Rest days: On rest days, athletes can continue to take Turkey Tail to support their body's natural recovery processes, including reducing inflammation, managing stress, and supporting the immune system.
