What if I told you that a mushroom, a simple mushroom, could potentially boost your autistic child’s focus, memory, and emotional balance? Sounds like a TikTok miracle, right? But let’s pause and ask, what does the science actually say?
Let’s explore the buzz around Lion’s Mane mushroom which is very popular on TikTok right now.
Beta-glucans
Lion’s mane has been used for centuries in traditional medicine. And here’s why it’s gaining attention now (besides TikTok and people making money off it) – its bioactive compounds, beta-glucans being one of the main ones.
They’re known for their neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory properties. Lion’s mane → anti-inflammatory → neuroprotective.
So what does that mean for your child? These compounds might support brain cell growth and reduce inflammation, which is critical for improving focus and cognitive function.
Excited yet? There’s more.
There are over 500 scientific articles on Lion’s Mane, and one intriguing study even touches on autism. Well, a mouse model of autism. We’re still waiting for human studies on autism, specifically in Lion’s Mane. Currently, there is not. But let’s not overlook the promising research in other areas.
Memory and Focus
In a study with adults with mild cognitive impairment, participants who took Lion’s Mane daily for 16 weeks showed significant improvements in memory and focus compared to a placebo group.
Imagine what this could mean for kids struggling with similar challenges. It’s a logical option to discuss with your doctor.
Please note that to get those improvements, those adults took 3 grams of lion’s mane a day.
If your child does not like to take supplements, this might not be the supplement for you.
Emotional regulation
Lion’s Mane may also help with emotional regulation. Studies suggest it can balance dopamine and serotonin levels. Those are neurotransmitters that impact mood and emotional stability. Imagine fewer meltdowns and a calmer child.
Gut health
Let’s talk about gut health. Many kids with autism experience gut issues which can worsen behavioral symptoms. They usually go hand in hand.
Lion’s mane might support gut health by modulating the gut microbiome and reducing inflammation. When the gut’s happy, the brain typically follows. It’s all connected, remember?
Taking Lion’s Mane
Now, let’s set expectations. If you decide to try lion’s mane, don’t expect overnight miracles. It could take weeks or even a few months to notice changes.
And here’s the key. Don’t just try it randomly. Before starting any intervention, ask yourself, what are my top priorities for my child? If focus, memory or emotional regulation are on your list of those top focuses, Lion’s Mane may be worth exploring. But if your focus is on something like inappropriate laughter, this isn’t the right tool for that.
Here’s where we work together. If you’re curious about natural interventions like Lion’s Mane, let’s chat. Click the link to schedule a consultation and check out the ways I work with parents to create a plan tailored to your child’s unique needs.
