How Mushroom Matcha Enhances Gut Health and Digestion

Gut health has been a hot topic for a hot minute now. And it's for good reason.

Did you know there are more microbial cells in your body than your own human cells? That's, well...insane!

I don't know if you've noticed this, but more and more I hear my friends complain of stomach issues. IBS, reflux, GERD, sensitivity to x, y, or z. 

Even coffee is a known culprit. The acidity can be very harsh for some. But, it's very difficult to quit coffee so most people don't switch even when they feel like they might need to. Anyway, that's a bit besides the point here...

The point is that your gut is central to your overall health, including the health of your brain, skin, metabolism, and much more. Even if you don't suffer specifically from digestive issues, your gut could be the key to unlocking better health. 

So, taking in foods and drinks that support your gut is important. And at Pow we make that seriously easy. Especially with Wonder Matcha and our newest product Pow Protein+ that includes prebiotics and probiotics. 

Let's delve into the scientific research (find all sources at the end) behind the ingredients in Wonder Matcha and uncover how they collectively contribute to your digestive wellness.

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Ceremonial Grade Matcha: A Marvel for Your Gut

Ceremonial grade matcha isn't just the best way to energize; it's a powerhouse for gut health.

This finely ground green tea is rich in antioxidants, particularly catechins like epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG). Research indicates that EGCG can enhance gut health by reducing inflammation and supporting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. Studies suggest that matcha may alter the composition of gut flora, increasing the abundance of certain beneficial bacteria, thereby promoting a healthy digestive system.

Beyond its microbiome benefits, matcha aids in digestion through its ability to stimulate metabolism and enhance the body's efficiency in processing nutrients and waste. The theanine and caffeine in matcha also synergize to improve concentration and energy, complementing its gut health benefits by reducing stress, which can negatively affect digestion.

Next, we'll dig into everyones favorite brain friendly fungi: lion's mane mushroom. 

[See sources 1, 2, 3, 4]

Lion’s Mane Mushroom: The Gut-Brain Connector

Did you now that there is a major connection between the gut and the brain? And in fact, that connection goes in both directions.

The gut has an impact on your brain, hormones, etc. and your brain has an impact on your gut. For example, an increase in your mental stress can impact the health of your microbiome. There are entire books about this connection.

You probably already know where I'm going with this...

Lion's mane mushroom (Hericium erinaceus) is renowned for its potential to boost cognitive function and brain health, so its benefits for the gut are equally impressive. Lion's mane has been studied for nootropic benefits, and even for treatment of depression.

This mushroom contains the bioactive compounds hericenones and erinacines that are believed to stimulate the growth of nerve cells and have anti-inflammatory effects.

Studies show that lion's mane extract can improve the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, and improve immunity. Another study has even shown the gastroprotective effects of lions mane mushroom, protecting the gut from ulcers. 

Now let's take a look at our next Wonder Matcha all-star ingredient: Ashwagandha.

[See sources: 5, 6, 7, 8]

Ashwagandha: An Ancient Remedy for Modern Digestive Woes

Chronic stress can wreak havoc on the digestive system, leading to issues like gastritis, ulcers, and IBS. This is heavily related to the gut-brain connection that we mentioned previously. 

So managing stress well can have a huge impact on your gut and digestive health.

Ashwagandha, an adaptogen used for thousand of years in Ayurvedic medicine, is most well known for its ability to help your body manage stress. Ashwagandha's ability to mitigate stress effects can, therefore, indirectly benefit gut health.

Elevated cortisol (the stress hormone) has been linked to negative impacts to the gut microbiome, and even increase intestinal permeability. Research has shown that Ashwagandha helps in balancing cortisol levels.

Additionally, ashwagandha has been found to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, further supporting its role in maintaining a healthy digestive system.

[See sources: 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14]

Ceylon Cinnamon: The Sweet Spice of Digestive Health

Ceylon cinnamon, known as "true cinnamon," is a lesser-known but potent ingredient for digestive health. It has antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties, which make it beneficial for the digestive tract.

Studies suggest that Ceylon cinnamon can help regulate blood sugar levels, reduce inflammation, and even combat bacteria in the gut.

Its antimicrobial properties also make it effective in fighting pathogens that can upset the gut's microbial balance, further promoting a healthy digestive system. And studies have shown its positive impact on the health of gut microbiota. 

[See sources: 15, 16, 17]

The Synergistic Effect of Wonder Matcha Ingredients

The real magic of Wonder Matcha lies in the synergy of its ingredients. The combination of ceremonial grade matcha, potent lion's mane mushroom extract, ashwagandha, and Ceylon cinnamon creates a holistic blend that supports gut health and digestion from multiple angles.

This synergy not only enhances the individual benefits of each component but also contributes to an overall healthier digestive ecosystem.

Wonder Matcha is a meticulously crafted blend that can be a huge support  for your digestive health. The scientific research behind each ingredient affirms their role in maintaining a healthy gut and improving digestion.

By incorporating Wonder Matcha into your daily routine, you're nurturing your body with a blend that's as good for you as it is delicious.

Ready to try Wonder Matcha? Try our starter pack or grab a refill here!

Sources

Matcha

1. https://microbiomejournal.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s40168-021-01115-9

2. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S095528631830723X

3. https://cdn.nutrition.org/article/S2475-2991(23)20819-7/pdf

4. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9376390/

Lions mane mushroom

5. Lion's mane stimulates nerve growth factor (NGF)

6. Lion's mane improves gut bacteria and immunity

7. Gastroprotective effects of lion's mane mushroom

8. Lion's mane mushroom' use for treating depression 

Ashwagandha

9. The impact of stress on the gut and related disorders

10. Impact of stress and cortisol on the gut microbiota

11. Impact of ashwagandha on depression and anxiety symptoms 

12. Ashwagandha's impact on stress and cortisol levels 

13. Ashwagandha's anti-inflammatory effect

14. Ashwagandha's anti-inflammatory effect on COVID patients

Ceylon Cinnamon

15. Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory impact of cinnamon

16. Cinnamon impact on IBD by improving gut microbiome health

17. Ceylon cinnamon effect on gut microbiota