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Best Time to Take Cordyceps


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A lot of people argue that there might be a benefit to taking cordyceps at different times of the day. And while the evidence isn’t all the way there, many acupuncture and Chinese medicine practitioners endorse this idea. 

Let’s explore what the data around this says.

 

Key Takeaways

  • Cordyceps has various benefits, including potential boosts in athletic performance, increase in testosterone levels, and antioxidant effects.
  • There is no specific recommended time of day to take cordyceps. It can be taken in the morning to boost energy or in the evening to potentially aid better sleep.
  • Cordyceps can be consumed in different forms, such as capsules, tea, powder, tincture, or as a hot water extract. Each form has its own advantages and can be chosen based on personal preference and convenience.

 

What are Cordyceps?

Cordyceps is a natural supplement that has been used for centuries. Specifically, it’s a form of fungus that grows and thrives in the high elevation regions of the Himalayas and Tibet. People have been taking this unique extract for the last 5,000 years to increase their physical strength.  

Cordyceps is one of the most beneficial mushrooms for improving your overall health. It’s a great additive to any supplement stack and can be taken as a stand-alone product. One of the most commonly asked questions about supplements is how much, when, and how often you should take them. 

We’re here to answer those questions for you with this article that covers some of the best cordyceps supplements and dosing recommendations to help you decide on what’s right for you. 

 

What are the Benefits of Cordyceps?

May Boost Athletic Performance

Cordyceps may have a reputation as an aphrodisiac, but it’s also prized for its stamina-enhancing effects. In 1993, three Chinese distance runners smashed world records in the marathon and 3,000-meter and 10,000-meter races. Rumors swirled over the runners’ secret weapon — cordyceps.

Cordyceps mushrooms contain cordycepin, a compound with anti-fatigue effects that boost athletic performance. One study found that taking cordyceps improved maximum oxygen consumption in athletes.

It also reduced lactic acid build-up during exercise, which is often associated with muscle fatigue. The study looked at three groups of mice that had been fed a high-fat diet: one group was given regular food only; another group was given food laced with cordyceps, and the third group was given food laced with cordyceps and exercise training over 28 days.

The results showed that the mice given cordyceps performed better on treadmill tests than those given just food or food and exercise training alone. 

Increase Testosterone Levels

Testosterone is the primary sex hormone in males. Testosterone plays an important role in male reproduction and sexual development.

However, testosterone also affects other aspects of health, such as bone and muscle strength and sex drive. Some evidence suggests that cordyceps may increase testosterone levels.

A 2011 study looked at the effects of cordyceps sinensis on testosterone levels and sexual function in rats. The study found that cordyceps increased testosterone levels and improved sexual function in rats with low testosterone levels. The researchers concluded that the mushroom positively affected the male reproductive system.

Antioxidant Effects

Cordyceps have antioxidant effects that may help protect the body against oxidative damage caused by free radicals. Antioxidants protect cells from damage caused by oxidation, which occurs when free radicals interact with fatty acids and proteins in cells. 

Free radicals are also known as reactive oxygen species or ROS. Antioxidants may help prevent heart disease and other diseases caused by oxidative stress.

Looking for more insight on the benefits of Cordyceps?

What is the Best Time of Day to Take Cordyceps?

If you are taking cordyceps as a health supplement, you might be wondering what the best time of day to take cordyceps is. Knowing when to take this powerful mushroom may help you reap its many benefits safely and effectively.

You can take cordyceps at any time of day. There is currently no evidence that supports taking cordyceps at one time of day over another. 

Some people choose to take it in the morning to boost energy. Others prefer to take it in the evening or before bed because it may help them sleep better.

If you choose to take cordyceps in the morning, it’s best to do so on an empty stomach so that your body absorbs more of its nutrients and you don’t feel sleepy after taking it.

 

Which are the Best Methods to Consume Cordyceps?

Cordyceps are available in a few different forms. As with any supplement, it is always best to choose one that is certified organic and third-party tested for quality.

The most common forms of cordyceps include: 

Capsules

You can also consume cordyceps in the form of capsules. The best part about a capsule is that it is highly convenient, as you don’t have to worry about measuring anything or mixing anything with water. You can simply take two capsules per day with water, and you are good to go. 

Just take two capsules every day, and you will feel better within no time. Also, they come in a bottle, making it easy for you to carry them along when traveling or going on trips or vacations. 

The dosage is usually between 500 mg and 1 g.

Tea

Cordyceps can be consumed as tea. It is one of the most common and popular methods to consume this mushroom. You can easily use the cordyceps powder for making your tea.

To do this:

  • Add 10-30 g of dried cordyceps mushroom to 3 cups of water.
  • Simmer for 30 minutes over low heat.
  • Strain the liquid before drinking it hot or cold. The tea can be sweetened with honey or another natural sweetener if desired.

Powder 

The easiest way to take cordyceps is in powder form. Just add a tablespoon of the powder to a cup of hot water and let it steep for 5-10 minutes. The simple tea is ready!

You can also mix the powder into your favorite beverage, smoothie, or meal. Add 1 tbsp of cordyceps powder to the blender when making your morning smoothie or fruit juice. You can even sprinkle the powder over your favorite yogurt, cereal, or fruit bowl for a boost of energy and stamina. 

Take one serving daily with your morning meal to get the most out of cordyceps as a supplement.

Tincture

Cordyceps tinctures are made by extracting the active compounds from dried cordyceps using alcohol. The alcohol acts as a solvent for the active ingredients, which are then administered in liquid drops under the tongue. 

This allows them to be quickly absorbed into the bloodstream instead of having to “digest” the cordyceps first like you would if you were eating it whole or consuming it in capsule form. For this reason, taking cordyceps tincture is said to produce faster results than other forms.

As a Hot Water Extract

To take cordyceps in hot water, put the mushroom into a strainer and put the strainer into a bowl with hot water. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to allow the water to absorb all of the mushroom’s elements. Remove the mushroom and enjoy the now powerful broth!

 

What is the Cordyceps Dosage for Performance 

The most commonly used dose in studies on athletic performance is 3 grams of Cs-4 per day. In one study, trained cyclists who took this dose for six weeks improved their maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max) by 7% and could ride 2 minutes longer at a high intensity.

Another study showed that men who took 3 grams of Cs-4 daily for seven days had greater upper body strength (by 5%) and lower body strength (by 13%) than those taking a placebo. 

There was also a significant increase in blood lactic acid concentration in the placebo group during exercise, whereas there was no change in the cordyceps group. The lactic acid build-up is responsible for muscle fatigue during exercise.

 

What is the Best Cordyceps Powder?

 

If you're looking for the best cordyceps poweder out there, try our TUNE IN powdered drink. 

With TUNE IN, you can experience the full power of cordyceps in a convenient and concentrated form.

Every serving of TUNE IN is meticulously formulated to provide an optimal dosage of cordyceps, ensuring you receive its potent bioactive compounds. This extraordinary blend invigorates your body, boosts endurance, and supports oxygen utilization, making it an ideal companion for athletes and individuals seeking an edge in their daily activities.

Not only does TUNE IN excel in its cordyceps content, but it also goes above and beyond by combining it with a synergistic mix of premium nootropics, adaptogens, and essential vitamins. This comprehensive formulation is designed to supercharge your brain, enhance focus and concentration, and promote a state of flow where productivity soars.

 

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