Fall is here, and with it comes sweater weather, cozy drinks, and… the return of cold and flu season. While the usual healthy habits like washing your hands and getting enough sleep still matter, there’s another simple way to give your immune system some extra love: functional mushrooms.

These aren’t the mushrooms you toss on your pizza. Functional mushrooms are nutrient-dense powerhouses that have been used for centuries to support everything from immune health to brain function. They’re packed with antioxidants, beta-glucans, and other compounds that help keep your defenses strong.

Here’s a closer look at four of our favourites for immune support and how to work them into your routine.

 

Chaga

Chaga has earned its nickname as the “king of mushrooms.” It’s loaded with antioxidants that help neutralize free radicals, giving your immune system some backup when seasonal bugs hit. Chaga also contains beta-glucans that help keep your immune response balanced and ready.

One of the easiest ways to enjoy Chaga is by blending it into warm drinks like tea or lattes for a cozy daily boost.

 

Turkey Tail

Don’t let its delicate look fool you. Turkey Tail is a gut health superstar, and since so much of your immune system lives in your gut, supporting your microbiome is key to overall immunity.

This mushroom contains special compounds that feed the good bacteria in your digestive system, which helps keep your immune system strong and resilient.

 

Lion’s Mane

Lion’s Mane is known for supporting focus and cognitive function, but that’s not all it can do. It also helps modulate immune activity, giving your body an extra layer of support during busy fall days. Think of it as a two-for-one: sharp mind, supported immunity.

 

Reishi

Reishi, often called the “queen of mushrooms,” is your go-to for balance. It’s an adaptogen, which means it helps your body handle stress more effectively. Since high stress can weaken your immune system, Reishi’s calming properties can help keep your defenses strong.

Plus, like the others, it’s packed with beta-glucans to give your immune system extra reinforcement.

 

An Easy (and Delicious) Way to Add Them to Your Routine

You could buy each mushroom separately… but there’s a much easier (and way tastier) option. Sproos® Super Hot Chocolate blends organic raw cacao with wild-caught marine collagen, MCT powder, and 500 mg of functional mushrooms (reishi, chaga, lion’s mane, and turkey tail) per scoop.

It’s unsweetened, creamy, and rich. Just mix it with your favorite warm milk for a cozy cup that supports your immune system and overall wellness. You can also stir it into coffee for a mocha vibe or blend it into smoothies for a quick boost.

 

Get Ahead of Cold and Flu Season

You don’t have to wait until you’re feeling run-down to support your immune system. Functional mushrooms make it easy to build your defenses naturally so you can keep feeling your best all season long!