As marathon season approaches, runners worldwide are gearing up to tackle one of the world's most iconic races: the London Marathon. Whether you're a seasoned athlete or a first-time participant, the key to success lies not only in rigorous training and dedication but also in maximising your body's natural potential. Cordyceps, the Super Sonic of all the mushrooms, is the little-known fungi that could give you the edge you need to conquer the London Marathon.
What is Cordyceps?
Cordyceps is a unique type of fungus native to the high-altitude regions of Tibet, Nepal, and other parts of the Himalayas. Cordyceps has gained popularity in recent years for its remarkable health benefits, particularly in the realm of sports performance. In 1993, the remarkable performance of the female running team at the Chinese Olympics raised eyebrows and ignited speculation within the athletic community. Breaking records in events like the 1,500, 3,000, and 10,000 metres, their unprecedented success fuelled both curiosity and suspicion. It was later revealed that the team had incorporated cordyceps, a traditional Chinese remedy known for its potential performance-enhancing properties, into their training regimen. This revelation sparked interest in cordyceps as a natural supplement for athletes seeking to optimise their endurance and stamina levels.
History
Cordyceps has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). Its usage dates back over 2,000 years to the time of the Han Dynasty (206 BCE – 220 CE). In TCM, cordyceps was praised for its various health benefits, including its ability to boost energy, improve respiratory function, and enhance vitality. Cordyceps was also used by both men and women for thousands of years to support sexual energy.
Below are various ways DIRTEA Cordyceps can be used for a boost in a marathon and for daily activities.
Performance endurance
One of the most impressive qualities of cordyceps is its ability to enhance endurance and stamina. Studies have shown that cordyceps supplements can increase energy production and delay the onset of fatigue during prolonged exercise, thanks in part to its active compound cordycepin. For London Marathon runners, this means more energy reserves to power through those gruelling miles and cross the finish line with ease. A study conducted in 2016 also revealed that after a three-week period of taking Cordyceps Militaris supplements, individuals showed notable enhancements in their ability to endure high-intensity exercise. This finding indicates the possibility of even more significant advantages with prolonged supplementation. (1)
Support recovery
Training for a marathon can leave your muscles feeling as sore as a Monday morning after a wild weekend. But fear not; luckily, Cordyceps is packed with potent compounds that can give your muscles a boost after your run, helping to reduce damage and speed up healing. Adding some Cordyceps to your pre- and post-race routine could be just the trick to keep soreness at bay and get you back on the road in a flash! (2)
Immune support
In recent decades, scientific interest in cordyceps has grown, leading to extensive research into its potential health benefits. Studies have revealed that cordyceps contains bioactive compounds such as cordycepin, polysaccharides, and adenosine, which exhibit antioxidant and immune-supporting properties.
How to Incorporate Cordyceps into Your Marathon Training
Incorporating cordyceps into your regimen is easy and convenient. Simply mix cordyceps powder into your pre-workout smoothies, healthy bakes, or hydration drinks for a natural boost of endurance and vitality. For maximum benefits, start incorporating cordyceps into your training routine several weeks before and after any session.
As you lace up your running shoes, prepare to conquer the London Marathon, and aim to finish strong, let DIRTEA Cordyceps be your ally in the journey ahead. Incorporate it into your training regimen, fuel your body with its natural energy, and watch as you unleash your inner marathon superstar.
References
- Hirsch, K.R., Smith-Ryan, A.E., Roelofs, E.J., Trexler, E.T., and Mock, M.G. (2017 ). ‘Cordyceps Militaris Improves Tolerance to High-Intensity Exercise After Acute and Chronic Supplementation’. J Diet Suppl. 14(1), pp.42-53. doi: 10.1080/19390211.2016.1203386.
- Choi, E., Oh, J, and Sung, GH.(2020) ‘Beneficial Effect of Cordyceps Militaris on Exercise Performance via Promoting Cellular Energy Production’. Mycobiology. 48(6), pp.512-517. doi: 10.1080/12298093.2020.1831135.