Lion's mane: a smart mushroom choice for memory, mood and clarity

Easily grown at home, and a relatively inexpensive therapeutic food, lion's mane is a beautiful mushroom with cascading spines instead of gills that shows potential in slowing the progression of neurological disorders -- including Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease. Research has also found the mushroom to be beneficial in treating symptomatic depression and anxiety associated with menopause.

The secret to the success of lion's mane is due to abundant erinacines. These compounds enhance the production of nerve growth factor -- a protein that encourages the regeneration of neurons.

Live your bliss by boosting brain dopamine levels

If you're blue, can't seem to shed those extra pounds or suffer from malaise, you may be lacking adequate dopamine. As a powerful brain neurotransmitter, dopamine regulates movement, feelings of pleasure, cognitive ability and appetite. When levels are low, zest for life plummets and we become prone to neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's - even schizophrenia. But not to worry. Keeping dopamine flowing freely is easy with a few dietary recommendations.

Food as Medicine