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Who should not take Lions Mane?

Understanding Lion’s Mane Mushroom
Lion’s Mane mushroom, scientifically known as *Hericium erinaceus*, has gained popularity for its potential health benefits, particularly in enhancing cognitive function and reducing inflammation. However, while many people can safely incorporate this mushroom into their diets, certain individuals should exercise caution or avoid it altogether.
Who Should Avoid Lion’s Mane?
1. Individuals with Allergies to Mushrooms: Those who have a known allergy to mushrooms should refrain from consuming Lion’s Mane. Allergic reactions can range from mild symptoms, such as skin rashes, to severe anaphylactic responses, which can be life-threatening.
2. People on Blood Thinners: Lion’s Mane may have anticoagulant properties, which could potentially enhance the effects of blood-thinning medications like warfarin or aspirin. This interaction could increase the risk of bleeding, making it crucial for individuals on these medications to consult with a healthcare provider before using Lion’s Mane.
3. Pregnant and Breastfeeding Women: There is limited research on the safety of Lion’s Mane during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Due to the lack of conclusive evidence regarding its effects on fetal development or nursing infants, it is advisable for pregnant or breastfeeding women to avoid this mushroom unless recommended by a healthcare professional.
4. Individuals with Autoimmune Conditions: Lion’s Mane is known to boost immune function, which could be counterproductive for those with autoimmune diseases. In these cases, enhancing immune activity might exacerbate symptoms or lead to flare-ups. Patients with conditions such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, or multiple sclerosis should consult their healthcare provider before considering Lion’s Mane.
5. Those with Gastrointestinal Disorders: Some individuals may experience digestive discomfort when consuming Lion’s Mane, particularly if they have pre-existing gastrointestinal issues. Symptoms can include bloating, gas, or diarrhea. It is advisable for those with conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) to approach Lion’s Mane with caution.
6. People Taking Certain Medications: Lion’s Mane may interact with various medications, including those for diabetes and certain antidepressants. For instance, it could potentially lower blood sugar levels, which may be problematic for individuals on diabetes medications. Therefore, anyone taking prescription drugs should discuss the use of Lion’s Mane with their healthcare provider to avoid adverse interactions.
Conclusion
While Lion’s Mane mushroom offers numerous health benefits, it is not suitable for everyone. Individuals with allergies to mushrooms, those on blood thinners, pregnant or breastfeeding women, people with autoimmune conditions, those with gastrointestinal disorders, and individuals taking specific medications should exercise caution. Consulting with a healthcare professional is essential to ensure safety and appropriateness before adding Lion’s Mane to one’s diet.

What medications does Lion’s Mane interact with?

Medications that slow blood clotting (Anticoagulant / Antiplatelet drugs) interacts with LION’S MANE MUSHROOM. Lion’s mane mushroom might slow blood clotting. Taking lion’s mane mushroom along with medications that also slow blood clotting might increase the risk of bruising and bleeding.

Is lions mane bad for blood pressure?

Support heart health
Non-human studies suggest that lion’s mane mushroom extracts may help keep cholesterol numbers in check. Another non-human study showed they could reduce high blood pressure, too.

What to avoid with Lion’s Mane?

Blood thinners: One of lion’s mane’s components slows blood-clotting. 18 Taking lion’s mane with other blood thinners like Jantoven (warfarin), aspirin, Plavix (clopidogrel), or herbs and supplements that affect clotting could increase the risk of bleeding.

Is Lion’s Mane hard on the liver?

Lion’s mane is generally recognized as safe and has not been linked to serum enzyme elevations during therapy nor to episodes of clinically apparent liver injury.

Should everyone take lion’s mane?

Lion’s mane mushrooms are considered safe in general, unless you’re allergic to mushrooms. No significant side effects have been reported in research, but if you experience any adverse symptoms after consuming lion’s mane, seek prompt medical attention.

What are the risks of taking lion’s mane?

“In general, culinary amounts of fresh lion’s mane carries few risks,” Surampudi said but added that some people may experience nausea, abdominal discomfort, and skin rashes after consuming these mushrooms. Lion’s mane supplements are also available.

Which is better, ashwagandha or lion’s mane?

Ashwagandha is an excellent choice if you want to focus on anxiety and hair health. But if you’re after something that lifts your mood and helps with mental clarity, Lion’s mane is more suitable.

Who can’t have lion’s mane?

If you have a history of allergies, asthma, or any other medical condition, check with your doctor before using lion’s mane mushrooms in your food or as a supplement. Some mushroom supplement labels carry warnings that they shouldn’t be used if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning surgery.

Is lion’s mane hard on the liver?

Lion’s mane is generally recognized as safe and has not been linked to serum enzyme elevations during therapy nor to episodes of clinically apparent liver injury.

Can lion’s mane cause weight gain?

Lion’s Mane May Improve Fat Metabolism
Despite this, the Lion’s Mane group still had less weight gain than the placebo group. The researchers said Lion’s mane might support a healthy weight by modifying the expression of genes associated with fat metabolism.

Natasha Lunn

Tash is an IBCLC and Business Coach helping fellow IBCLCs create fun, profitable businesses that are more than just an expensive hobby. Before becoming an IBCLC and starting her private practice - The Boobala, Tash graduated as an Osteopath in 2008 and has been in Private Practice in South West Sydney. She was also a volunteer Breastfeeding Counsellor and Community Educator with the Australian Breastfeeding Association for 6 years. Through her business, Your Lactation Biz, Tash coaches and creates products to help new and seasoned IBCLCs build businesses that suit their personality and lifestyle.

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