In part one, nutritionist Zoe Davis took a deep dive into the science, health benefits, and sample uses of the six superfood mushrooms found in BrainMD’s Smart Mushrooms. In this article, Zoe gives preparation tips for how to use these immune-boosting mushrooms in delicious foods and beverages.
Below are some healthy mushroom recipes to try with the six mushroom varieties available in concentrated form in Smart Mushrooms. If you aren’t a huge fan of the texture of mushrooms you find in these recipes, you might try cutting them up into super small pieces to use in a veggie sauté so that they blend in more with the other flavors you prefer, or puree them in soups with strong flavors like garlic, ginger, or peppers. I’ve gotten away with “hiding” mushrooms many times this way with my family.
4 Simple & Healthy Mushroom Recipes to Try
Thai Chicken & Shiitake Mushroom Soup
Ingredients
1 ½ tsps Coconut Oil
1 Garlic (clove, minced)
1 tsp Ginger (minced)
3 cups Organic Chicken Broth
1 TB Coconut Aminos
¼ oz Lemongrass (peeled, chopped into large pieces)
8 ozs Organic, Pasture-raised Chicken Breast (skinless, boneless, chopped into cubes)
1 ½ cups Shiitake Mushrooms (sliced)
1 cup Organic Coconut Milk (canned)
1 TB Lime Juice
¼ cup Thai Basil (chopped)
How to Cook:
In a pot over medium heat, add the coconut oil, garlic, and ginger. Sauté for 1 minute. Then add the broth, coconut aminos and lemongrass. Bring to a simmer, reduce heat to medium-low and cook for 15 to 20 minutes.
Add the chicken and mushrooms and cook for 10 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through. Remove from heat. Remove the lemongrass stalks and discard. Add the coconut milk and lime juice. Stir to combine.
Divide into bowls and garnish with basil. Enjoy!
Reishi Tea
Ingredients
3 cups Water
1 TB Hibiscus Tea (loose leaf or bagged)
⅟16 oz Reishi-containing Smart Mushrooms powder
¼ cup Mint Leaves (optional but delicious!)
How to Prepare:
Bring the water to a boil and steep the hibiscus tea for about 10 minutes.
Mix in the Super Mushrooms powder, if using, and stir vigorously to combine. Add the tea to a pitcher and refrigerate until cold.
Divide the ice cubes between glasses and pour the chilled tea overtop. Garnish with mint, if desired. Enjoy!
Lion’s Mane Roast
Ingredients
12 ozs of Lion’s Mane Mushroom, slice to desired thickness
2 TB Avocado Oil
6 large Shallots or small Yellow Onions (sliced)
½ tsp Sea Salt
¼ tsp ground Black Pepper
1 TB Miyokos Coconut/Cashew Butter or ½ TB Ghee
⅓ cup Veggie Broth
1 TB Apple Cider Vinegar
1 TB fresh Thyme Leaves
How to Prepare:
Preheat oven to 425 degrees (may vary depending on oven)
Heat 1 TB of avocado in pan at medium heat, coating pan evenly.
Add in onions or shallots, thyme, and a pinch of salt, stirring regularly.
After 5 minutes, add in veggie broth, cover pan and reduce heat.
Simmer for 10-12 minutes or until onions/shallots are tender.
Add apple cider vinegar and pepper. Stir thoroughly.
Remove from direct heat, but keep covered.
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add 1 TB avocado oil, coating whole pan.
Add in mushrooms with the fuzzier side down. Cook 3-5 minutes or until light brown, then turn over to repeat. Top each with a small piece of Miyoko’s coconut/cashew butter or drop/flick of ghee.
Immediately put pan in oven and bake for 5-7 minutes or until tender when putting a fork through them. Remove from oven.
To serve, scoop a spoonful of the onion/shallot mixture onto a plate (this recipe serves 4), then add a few mushrooms to the top of the onions. You can sprinkle with fresh herbs of choice such as rosemary or chives if desired.
Agaricus Blazei Tea or Soup
Ingredients
Dried Agaricus Blazei
Hot Water
How to Prepare:
Bring pot of water to boil
Soak dried agaricus blazei in hot water for at least 30 minutes or to desired strength.
Discard the mushroom and drink the broth as is, or use in soups with chicken, beans, or vegetables like kale, other forms of mushrooms, onion, etc. Spice with fresh ginger, garlic, or other fresh herbs as desired.
Reishi and Turkey Tail
These forms are not commonly eaten due to super-fibrous nature, but can be steeped in hot water for tea, or used in powdered form in beverages and smoothies as in Smart Mushrooms.
Smart Mushrooms
Smart Mushrooms is firmly grounded in the most recent clinical and scientific research on medicinal mushrooms. All six mushrooms are highly nutritious, and together they offer a broad spectrum of health benefits. These can be added to any recipe!
Benefits of Smart Mushrooms
The mushrooms in this formula are high in protein and fiber, low in calories and sodium, and contribute many vitamins and minerals to the diet. They include glucans, unique fibers that can enhance immunity, provide antioxidant benefits, and promote healthy gut microbial balance.
The Smart Choice
Smart Mushrooms offers substantial promise for improving memory, mood, and other cognitive functions. These six mushrooms are functional foods that can help increase energy, wellness, and high-level brain performance.
It’s the smart choice for immune and whole-body support.
Meet the Author
Zoe Davis, CNS
Zoe Davis is a licensed mental health counselor and board-certified clinical nutritionist (CNS). She has worked in holistic mental health clinics and integrative psychiatric practices over the last decade, and has been honored to support clients through ‘edges’ in their lives that can manifest in emotional, psychological, or physical dis-ease, all deserving of kind attention and care.
Zoe's education includes a Master of Arts in Mental Health Counseling from Antioch University Seattle, and a Master of Science in Human Nutrition and Functional Medicine from the University of Western States in Portland. Additionally, she holds certifications in Nutritional Psychology and Integrative Medicine for Mental Health and has completed post-graduate training in trauma, somatic therapy, mindfulness, implicit bias, and disordered eating.
When you hear the word electrolytes, you probably think of salty sports drinks and sweaty workouts.
Or you think of popular electrolyte “sports” formulas with famous brand names and roughly 35 grams of sugar per bottle.
No, thank you.
True hydration — the kind your brain and body really need — involves more than just replacing lost sodium. It demands a smarter approach to hydration overall, one that fuels energy, focus, muscle recovery, and overall performance.
That’s where Smart Electrolytes comes in.
BrainMD's Smart Electrolytes
Unlike conventional electrolyte products that overload your system with salt, sugar or both, Smart Electrolytes delivers a balanced blend of essential electrolytes — potassium and magnesium — paired with brain- and body-supportive nutrients like B vitamins and Vitamin C.*
It’s hydration, upgraded: designed not just to quench thirst, but to optimize the way you feel and function.*
Let’s dive into what we really mean by the concept of “smarter hydration” — and why it’s about so much more than salt and water.
Hydration Is About Way More Than Water
Water is fundamental to life — but it can’t do the job alone.
Your brain, made up of nearly 75% water, relies on electrolytes to function properly. Electrolytes like potassium and magnesium regulate fluid balance, support nerve transmission, and enable muscle contractions. Without them, simply drinking water won’t fully rehydrate you — let alone fuel your body’s (or your brain’s) performance.
And it’s not just about quenching thirst.
The legendary sports nutritionist pioneer of the 80’s and 90’s, Dr. Michael Colgan, warned decades ago that even a small drop in body water is enough to sabotage physical performance—and that is well before thirst even kicks in.
He was right. Research now shows that even mild dehydration—we’re talking as low as a 2% loss in body water—can tank your performance, cutting into your endurance, strength, and even mental focus—without any warning. (1,2).
Dehydration can lead to brain fog, fatigue, poor mood, and even headaches. Prolonged dehydration has even been linked to cognitive impairment and reduced physical performance (3). Staying properly hydrated, with the right balance of fluids and electrolytes, is key to keeping both mind and body operating at peak levels.
What Traditional Electrolyte Formulas Miss
Most traditional electrolyte drinks focus narrowly on replenishing sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, and chloride. But here’s the thing: While these minerals are indeed important, many formulas wind up overloading the system with salt, which can cause bloating and water retention. Or — sometimes “and” — they add large amounts of sugar, leading to energy crashes later.
If you doubt me, read the labels.
Even more critically, a lot of electrolyte product designers overlook the bigger picture, which is hydration.
Allow me to offer a mantra which we would all do well to keep in mind: Hydration is about more than water.
See, proper hydration isn’t just about replacing sweat loss — it’s about supporting cellular function, energy metabolism, and mental performance.
And that’s where Smart Electrolytes stands apart.
What Makes Smart Electrolytes Different
Smart Electrolytes redefines what hydration can do by combining key electrolytes with brain- and body-supportive nutrients:
Balanced Electrolytes: Provides potassium and magnesium in amounts that support nerve function, muscle health, and optimal hydration — without excessive sodium (4).*
Brain-Supportive Nutrients: Includes B6, B12, niacin (B3), and Vitamin C — nutrients critical for energy production, mental clarity, and immune support (5, 6).*
Clean Formula: Zero sugar, no artificial colors or sweeteners, and keto-friendly — ideal for health-conscious individuals.*
This smarter combination helps ensure rapid hydration while fueling your brain and body for better performance, all without the common downsides of traditional sports drinks.*
How Smart Electrolytes Support Brain and Body
Potassium and Magnesium: These essential electrolytes maintain fluid balance, regulate muscle contractions, and support nerve transmission (4).* Potassium helps prevent cramping and supports cardiovascular function, while magnesium plays a critical role in muscle relaxation and brain health.* Magnesium is also involved in over 300 enzymatic reactions, making it indispensable for overall metabolic health (7).*
B Vitamins: Niacin (B3), B6, and B12 are vital for converting food into usable energy.* They also support neurotransmitter synthesis, helping to promote mental clarity and reduce brain fog (6, 8).* B vitamins have even been shown to play a protective role against cognitive decline, making them essential for long-term brain health.*
Vitamin C: A powerful antioxidant, Vitamin C helps protect cells from oxidative stress, supports immune function, and may reduce inflammation — crucial benefits for anyone with an active lifestyle (9).* Additionally, Vitamin C contributes to collagen production, supporting joint and skin health, both of which are vital for athletes and active individuals.*
Together, these nutrients create a formula that addresses hydration at a deeper level, supporting the brain, body, and immune system — all without sugar crashes.*
So Why Are There Vitamins in an Electrolyte Formula?
At first glance, electrolytes and vitamins might seem like two different worlds — one focused on hydration, the other on general nutrition.
But here’s the connection: true hydration isn’t just about replacing water and minerals. It’s about optimizing the way your cells use that water.
B vitamins — like B3 (niacin), B6, and B12 — play a critical role in cellular energy production, supporting the mitochondria that power your cells.
Hydration and energy production are tightly linked; without adequate B vitamins, your cells can’t efficiently generate the energy needed for muscle contractions, nerve signaling, and recovery (6, 8).
Vitamin C, meanwhile, acts as a potent antioxidant, protecting cells from oxidative stress that can be elevated during physical exertion and dehydration (9). It also supports collagen production for healthy joints and skin — critical for athletes and active individuals.
In short: hydration isn’t just about replacing what you sweat out — it’s about ensuring your body can “use” the hydration effectively.
Adding targeted vitamins amplifies the benefits of electrolytes, helping to fuel performance, recovery, and resilience from the inside out.
Hydration, Upgraded: Smarter Ingredients for Smarter Performance
Research shows that properly formulated hydration products improve fluid retention, exercise capacity, and reduce fatigue (3, 10).
Adding magnesium into the mix has also been associated with reduced muscle cramping and enhanced athletic performance (7).
Meanwhile, B vitamins and magnesium have been linked to improved cognitive performance and reduced stress in healthy adults (8, 11).
Emerging studies even suggest that maintaining optimal hydration can positively impact mood and cognitive function, particularly under physical or environmental stress (10).
Simply put, hydration isn’t just about replacing what you lose — it’s about giving your body and brain what they need to perform at their best.
With Smart Electrolytes, you get:
Faster rehydration and better muscle recovery*
Sustained mental clarity and reduced brain fog*
Immune system support without sugar spikes*
Enhanced metabolic support and better cardiovascular health*
All with a clean, sugar-free formula.
When to Use Smart Electrolytes
During Exercise: Replenish lost electrolytes and support recovery after workouts.*
Daily Hydration: Combat everyday dehydration and support brain performance — perfect for busy professionals, students, and travelers.*
Keto & Low-Carb Lifestyles: Stay hydrated without compromising your dietary goals — Smart Electrolytes has zero sugar and no artificial additives.*
High-Stress Situations: Hydration isn’t just for athletes. Stress increases your body’s demand for magnesium and B vitamins.* Smart Electrolytes helps replenish these vital nutrients keeping you sharp, alert, and on your game.*
The Bottom Line: Hydrate Smarter, Feel Better
Smart Electrolytes isn’t just an electrolyte drink — it’s a smarter way to hydrate.* By combining essential electrolytes with brain-boosting nutrients, it offers a more complete approach to hydration, energy, and recovery.*
Say goodbye to sugar crashes, bloating, and brain fog.*
Say hello to smarter hydration — and a better, brighter you.*
At BrainMD, we’re dedicated to providing the highest quality supplements to improve your physical health and overall well-being. For more information about Smart Electrolytes and our full list of brain healthy supplements, please visit us at BrainMD.
*These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This content is for informational purposes only. It is not meant to substitute for medical or healthcare advice from a physician, nor is it intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult your healthcare provider before beginning a new health regimen.
References:
1. Cheuvront SN, Carter R III, Sawka MN. Fluid balance and endurance exercise performance. *Curr Sports Med Rep*. 2003;2(4):202–208. doi:10.1249/00149619-200308000-00006.
2. Colgan M. *Optimum Sports Nutrition: Your Competitive Edge*. Advanced Research Press; 1993.
3. Orrù S, Imperlini E, Nigro E, et al. Role of Functional Beverages on Sport Performance and Recovery. *Nutrients*. 2018;10(10):1470. doi:10.3390/nu10101470. PMID: 30308976; PMCID: PMC6213308.
4. Choi D, Cho J, Koo J, Kim T. Effects of Electrolyte Supplements on Body Water Homeostasis and Exercise Performance during Exhaustive Exercise. *Applied Sciences*. 2021;11(9093). https://doi.org/10.3390/app11199093.
5. Morris MS. The role of B vitamins in preventing and treating cognitive impairment and decline. *Adv Nutr*. 2012;3(6):801-812. doi:10.3945/an.112.002535. PMID: 23153734; PMCID: PMC3648704.
6. Noah L, Dye L, Bois De Fer B, et al. Effect of magnesium and vitamin B6 supplementation on mental health and quality of life in stressed healthy adults: Post-hoc analysis of a randomized controlled trial. *Stress Health*. 2021;37(5):1000-1009. doi:10.1002/smi.3051.
7. Moretti A. What is the role of magnesium for skeletal muscle cramps? A Cochrane Review summary with commentary. *J Musculoskelet Neuronal Interact*. 2021;21(1):1-3. PMID: 33657750; PMCID: PMC8020016.
8. Kennedy DO. B Vitamins and the Brain: Mechanisms, Dose and Efficacy—A Review. *Nutrients*. 2016;8(2):68. doi:10.3390/nu8020068.
9. Carr AC, Maggini S. Vitamin C and Immune Function. *Nutrients*. 2017;9(11):1211. doi:10.3390/nu9111211. PMID: 29099763; PMCID: PMC5707683.
10. Adams JD, Karpinski A. Hydration status influences mood and cognitive function. *Biol Sport*. 2022;39(4):1047-1055. doi:10.5114/biolsport.2022.109234.
11. Smith AD, Refsum H. Homocysteine, B vitamins, and cognitive impairment. Annu Rev Nutr. 2016;36:211-239. doi:10.1146/annurev-nutr-071715-050947. PMID: 27296501.
Head injuries, ranging from mild concussions to severe traumatic brain injuries (TBI), can have a negative effect on mental and physical health. Whether the result of a sports injury, vehicle accident, or fall, head injuries can have a lasting impact on an individual’s quality of life.
A common question many people have is: Can the brain be repaired over time?
Let’s explore the brain’s capacity for recovery, the factors influencing rehabilitation, and some practical ways to prevent head injuries.
Can the Brain Recover from a Head Injury?
Once a head injury has occurred, recovery becomes complex and highly individualized process. The degree of recovery often depends on the extent of the damage.
• Mild Injuries: For individuals with mild head injuries, such as minor concussions, the brain can often fully recover, especially if proper care is taken early on. However, it’s important to closely follow medical advice, get adequate rest, and avoid risky behaviors and activities that might reaggravate or worsen the condition.
• Moderate to Severe Injuries: For moderate to severe head injuries, full recovery is less certain. While some brain functions may be restored soon after the event, others may only slightly improve over an extended period. Individuals who experience partial recovery may still have an acceptable quality of life. However, those who’ve experienced significant brain injury may never recover to the level of pre-trauma functionality.
So, what allows the brain to rejuvenate from injury? One of the main factors involved in brain recovery is neuroplasticity.
What Is Neuroplasticity?
One of the most fascinating aspects of the brain is its ability to adapt and repair itself after an injury, due to a process known as neuroplasticity.
Neuroplasticity refers to the brain’s capacity to reorganize and form new neural connections in response to injury. This means that if one part of the brain is damaged, other parts may take over its functions. For example, if a region of the brain responsible for speech is injured, other areas may adapt and help regain the lost function over time.
Neuroplasticity can play a pivotal role in recovery from head injuries,¹ especially in the early stages.
Mechanisms of Brain Repair
While neuroplasticity is a central mechanism in brain repair, other factors also may contribute to the recovery process. Some of these include:
Neurogenesis is the process by which new neurons (brain cells) are created. In certain regions of the brain, like the hippocampus (responsible for memory and learning), neurogenesis can help replace damaged cells and promote recovery.
Synaptic Plasticity refers to the strengthening or weakening of synapses (the connections between neurons). When the brain experiences an injury, synaptic plasticity can help reestablish lost connections or enhance existing ones, improving cognitive function.
Glial Cells provide support and protection for neurons. After an injury, glial cells can help in the repair process by removing debris,² reducing inflammation, and facilitating the regeneration of neural pathways.
Factors That Influence Brain Recovery
Many things can affect the brain’s recovery process, including:
• Age: Younger brains tend to recover more quickly and completely than older brains, due to their more robust neuroplasticity and neurogenesis capabilities.
• General Health: A person’s overall physical and mental health can significantly impact the recovery process. Factors such as nutrition, exercise, sleep, and stress levels all can play vital roles in recovery.
• Early Intervention: The sooner a person receives appropriate care and rehabilitation, the better their chances of recovery. Early intervention – including physical therapy, cognitive rehabilitation, and nutritional support – may help accelerate the healing process.
• Severity and Location of Injury: The severity of the injury and the area of the brain affected are crucial factors in determining recovery. Injuries to critical areas responsible for motor skills, speech, or memory may have greater long-term effects than injuries to other regions.
General Timeline and Expectations for Recovery
The timeline for brain recovery can vary widely depending on the severity of the injury:
Mild Concussions: Most individuals with a mild concussion may experience noticeable recovery within 7-10 days, provided they get plenty of rest and avoid activities that could further exacerbate their condition.
Moderate to Severe Head Injuries: It may take months, or even years, to recover from moderate to severe TBIs. While some individuals may experience significant improvements in the short-term, others may face long-term challenges. Rehabilitation strategies – such as physical, occupational, and speech therapy – may be recommended for months or years after the injury.
In many cases, brain recovery is a slow and ongoing process. It’s essential for patients to set realistic expectations and remain patient while actively participating in their recovery plan.
5 of the Best Ways to Prevent a Head Injury
Preventing brain injury should be a top priority for anyone who has experienced a head injury in the past or who is at risk of sustaining one. Here are some practical tips to help reduce the risk of sustaining a head injury:
1. Wear Protective Gear
If you participate in sports or activities with a risk of head injury, such as cycling, football, or skiing, always wear the appropriate protective gear (e.g., helmets, mouthguards, etc.). If you have kids, you might consider steering them away from high-risk sports and toward brain healthy ones instead.
2. Follow Safety Protocols
Always adhere to safety guidelines, whether on the job, in sports, or during recreational activities. Avoid risky behaviors that could lead to falls or accidents.
3. Monitor Symptoms
After a head injury, closely monitor for symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, or confusion, and seek out prompt medical care if needed. Early detection of these symptoms may help prevent further damage.
4. Take Time to Recover
Don’t rush back into physical activities after an injury. It’s important to give the brain time to rest and rejuvenate. Gradually ease back into activities and listen to your body for signs that you’re overdoing it.
5. Maintain Overall Health
Good nutrition, regular physical activity, adequate sleep, and stress management can all contribute to better brain health and a quicker recovery.
Recovery is a Journey
The brain is an incredibly resilient organ. While complete restoration from a head injury isn’t always possible, the potential for recovery is substantial. Neuroplasticity allows the brain to reorganize and form new connections, which can significantly aid in the recovery process.
By understanding the brain’s restorative mechanisms and taking proactive steps to prevent head injuries, individuals can better navigate the recovery process and improve their long-term outcomes.
NOTE: Always consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and treatment plans tailored to your specific needs.
At BrainMD, we’re dedicated to providing the highest quality supplements to improve your physical health and overall well-being. For more information about our full list of brain healthy supplements, please visit us at BrainMD.
These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This content is for informational purposes only. It is not meant to substitute for medical or healthcare advice from a physician, nor is it intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult your healthcare provider before beginning a new health regimen.
References:
1. Zotey, V., Andhale, A., Shegekar, T., & Juganavar, A. (2023). Adaptive neuroplasticity in brain injury recovery: Strategies and insights. Cureus, 15(9), e45873. https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.45873
2. Neumann, H., Kotter, M. R., & Franklin, R. J. M. (2008). Debris clearance by microglia: An essential link between degeneration and regeneration. Brain, 132(2), 288–295. https://doi.org/10.1093/brain/a
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