Mike is the co-founder of Adapt and holds a degree in neuroscience. When not researching new formulations or speaking with customers, you'll find him experimenting with different ways to help people get that extra 10% out of life.
The Gut-Brain Axis and Fasting
The gut and brain are in constant communication through what’s called the gut-brain axis. When fasting, this connection becomes especially important. While your brain might crave focus and energy, your gut is adjusting to the lack of food. This shift can lead to discomfort, hunger, or mood swings, particularly if your gut health isn’t in top shape.
Lion’s Mane and Gut Health
Lion’s Mane is rich in polysaccharides—compounds that act as prebiotics, feeding beneficial gut bacteria. A balanced gut microbiome can help regulate hunger hormones like ghrelin (the one that makes you feel hungry) and leptin (the one that signals fullness).
During fasting, this regulation is crucial. When your gut bacteria are thriving, it can ease those distracting hunger signals and help your body settle into a more comfortable fasting state. Additionally, the anti-inflammatory properties of Lion’s Mane may reduce gut irritation, making fasting more sustainable over time.
How Lion’s Mane Eases Hunger
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Regulates Hunger Hormones
Lion’s Mane doesn’t just support your microbiome—it may also help balance hormones that influence appetite. By supporting gut health, it creates a foundation for smoother fasting, with fewer spikes in hunger. -
Soothes the Digestive System
Fasting can sometimes lead to stomach discomfort as gastric acid levels rise. Lion’s Mane has been shown to support the mucosal lining of the gut, helping protect against this irritation. A healthier gut means less discomfort, which means a smoother fasting experience. -
Promotes Satiety
While Lion’s Mane itself doesn’t contain calories, its gut-nourishing effects can help you feel more satisfied overall. A well-functioning gut sends clearer, calmer signals to the brain, making those hunger pangs less intense and more manageable.
Lion’s Mane, Hunger, and Mental Clarity
One of the more frustrating aspects of fasting is how hunger can hijack focus. Hunger hormones affect the brain’s ability to concentrate, pulling attention toward food rather than the tasks at hand. Lion’s Mane tackles this on two fronts:
- By regulating gut health to curb unnecessary hunger.
- By supporting nerve growth factor (NGF) in the brain, promoting mental clarity and keeping you locked in on your goals, not your next meal.
Final Thoughts
Intermittent fasting isn’t always easy, but tools like Lion’s Mane can make a huge difference. By supporting both brain and gut health, this mushroom helps manage hunger, improves focus, and enhances the overall fasting experience.
If fasting feels like a mental and physical battle at times, Lion’s Mane might be what you're looking for.