Should you consider taking Cordyceps pre workout? Can this type of mushroom take your workout to the next level? Cordyceps has been used for centuries as an herbal medicine and has been found to have a variety of health benefits, including energy-boosting. Keep reading as we explore the potential health benefits of taking Cordyceps pre workout and whether it’s something you should consider adding to your pre workout routine.
What Is Cordyceps?
Cordyceps is a type of fungus that has a long history in traditional Chinese medicine. It can come from a variety of sources and be vegan or non-vegan. This needle-like mushroom grows by feeding off the tissues of caterpillars or insects. However, in modern times, Cordyceps is often grown in labs on a liquid culture or grain. Approved Science® only uses vegan Cordyceps in our supplements, such as Energysyl™, Male Enhancement, and Adrenasyl™.
How Can Cordyceps Help Pre Workout?
Cordyceps is often considered an adaptogen, due to its abilities to help increase energy levels and fight fatigue. Studies have shown that 3 weeks of supplementation with a mushroom blend containing Cordyceps improved VO2 max in young adults, which indicates that Cordyceps may help improve the body’s oxygen utilization (1), though a different study found no effects on VO2 max in adults over the age of 50 (2). Additionally, Cordyceps may increase blood flow which can boost physical performance (1). It also contains a compound with adenosine which supports the production of cell energy in the form of adenosine triphosphate (ATP). Last but not least, Cordyceps provides antioxidants that may delay feelings of fatigue (1).
What Are The Other Health Benefits Of Cordyceps?
According to Herbal Medicine: Biomolecular and Clinical Aspects, Cordyceps has demonstrated the following health benefits (3):
- Anti-tumor properties
- Immunomodulating effects
- Antioxidant activity
- Helping restore reproductive function
- Supporting the kidneys and liver
Other sources suggest that Cordyceps may help reduce bone loss, regulate heart rate, and lower cholesterol, though further research is required (4).
When To Take Cordyceps Pre Workout?
Taking Cordyceps as a supplement or powder an hour before working out is a largely exercised practice. However, the time of day matters less than you think. Cordyceps provides your body with foundational support, so consistency is key. Regularly supplementing with Cordyceps can help keep your body stocked with the chemicals and nutrients that it needs in order to perform at its best. Therefore, you can take Cordyceps in the morning or afternoon even if you still have hours left before your workout. Due to the energy-enhancing benefits of Cordyceps, you shouldn’t take it in the evening or night as it might cause difficulty falling asleep.
Are There Any Side Effects From Taking Cordyceps?
Generally considered safe, Cordyceps may cause mild side effects such as stomach upset, dry mouth, or nausea (5). Like with all supplements, Cordyceps supplements should not be taken without consulting a doctor first. Whether you’re healthy or you have a health condition, it’s important to talk to a qualified health advisor before adding any supplement into your diet.
What Other Mushrooms Or Herbs Boost Energy?
While Cordyceps is one of the more popular mushrooms used to boost energy and workouts, there are other options available. Ashwagandha, Ginseng, Reishi, Rhodiola, Schisandra, and Tulsi are all herbs or mushrooms that have been known to increase energy levels naturally. These ingredients have been used for centuries to boost energy levels naturally and safely. By incorporating them into your diet, you can experience the benefits of increased energy without the use of potentially harmful stimulants or artificial ingredients.
Can I Combine Cordyceps With Other Herbs For Pre Workout?
You can! In fact, some supplement experts even recommend it. Approved Science® Energysyl™ contains a unique combination of Cordyceps with 7 other adaptogenic herbs and mushrooms as well as all 8 B Vitamins. The adaptogen blend helps fight off fatigue while the B vitamins play critical roles in energy synthesis. Energysyl™ is clinically designed to promote sustained energy, boost physical performance, and reduce recovery time.
Want to learn more about how Energysyl™ works or read Energysyl™ reviews?