New Recipe Alert: Reishi mushroom latte

3 ingredients: 

1. Almond Milk

2. Reishi Cacao powder (our fav is from Teelixir)

3. Ground Cinnamon 

Recipe:

Heat 250ml of almond milk in a saucepan on the stove.

Once warm, add in 1 heaped teaspoon of reishi cacao powder

And 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Stir until mixed together. 

Pour into a glass and enjoy.

Reishi mushroom has been used for centuries in traditional medicine, particularly in Asian cultures. It is something that more recently is enjoyed as a warm beverage and even a coffee replacement. Health benefits of Reishi include:

Boosting the Immune System: Reishi mushrooms contain bioactive compounds such as polysaccharides and triterpenoids, which are believed to enhance the activity of certain immune cells like natural killer cells and T-cells. These compounds may help strengthen the body's defence against infections and diseases by modulating immune function.

Reducing Inflammation: Reishi mushrooms possess anti-inflammatory properties and consumption of reishi may help alleviate inflammation, thus potentially reducing the risk of certain health conditions such as chronic inflammation, heart disease, diabetes, and autoimmune disorders. 

Supporting Liver Health: Some studies suggest that reishi mushrooms may have hepatoprotective effects, meaning they can help protect the liver from damage caused by toxins or diseases. Compounds found in reishi mushrooms, such as triterpenoids, have been shown to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that could benefit liver health. This makes reishi mushroom a potential supplement for individuals with liver conditions or those looking to support overall liver function.

Cacao, the raw form of cocoa before processing, is rich in various compounds that offer several potential health benefits. These include..

Improved Heart Health. Studies suggest that the flavonoids found in cacao may have beneficial effects on heart health. Flavanols may help improve blood flow by promoting the production of nitric oxide, a compound that relaxes and dilates blood vessels. Improved blood flow can lead to better cardiovascular function, lower blood pressure, and reduced risk of blood clot formation, ultimately supporting overall heart health.

Enhanced Mood and Cognitive Function. Cacao contains various compounds, including theobromine and phenylethylamine, which may have mood-enhancing effects. Additionally, cacao is a natural source of caffeine, albeit in smaller amounts compared to coffee. These compounds can contribute to increased alertness, focus, and feelings of well-being. Moreover, some research suggests that regular consumption of cacao may support cognitive function and may even have neuroprotective effects, potentially reducing the risk of age-related cognitive decline.

It's important to note that while cacao offers potential health benefits, many commercial cocoa products, such as chocolate bars and cocoa powders, undergo processing that may reduce their content of beneficial compounds. Choosing minimally processed, high-quality cacao products, such as raw cacao nibs or unsweetened cocoa powder, can help maximise the health benefits.

The final ingredient in this latte is cinnamon which is a popular spice derived from the inner bark of trees belonging to the genus Cinnamomum. Beyond its delicious flavour, cinnamon offers several potential health benefits such as:

Antioxidant Properties: Cinnamon is rich in antioxidants, such as polyphenols. These compounds help neutralise harmful free radicals in the body, which can otherwise contribute to oxidative stress and damage to cells. By reducing oxidative stress, cinnamon may help lower the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease, cancer, and neurodegenerative disorders.

Anti-inflammatory Effects: Some research suggests that cinnamon possesses anti-inflammatory properties. Chronic inflammation is associated with various health conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, and certain types of cancer. Consuming cinnamon may help reduce inflammation markers in the body, potentially mitigating the risk of inflammatory diseases.

Blood Sugar Regulation: Cinnamon has been studied for its potential to improve insulin sensitivity and regulate blood sugar levels. Several compounds in cinnamon, including cinnamaldehyde, may mimic the action of insulin or enhance insulin signalling, leading to improved glucose uptake by cells. This effect can be particularly beneficial for individuals with insulin resistance, prediabetes, or type 2 diabetes. Incorporating cinnamon into the diet may help stabilise blood sugar levels and improve glycemic control.