Lion's mane mushroom may not be typically found in your local supermarket, and you may need to go farther afield to a speciality farm shop or Asian supermarket, but it's well worth the journey.

This mushroom could support weight loss, enhance fat metabolism, and improve mood and well-being, making them a valuable addition to a healthy lifestyle.

The experts at Urban Farm-It, who sell kits for growing mushrooms, including Lion's Mane, in the comfort of your own home, have highlighted the potential health benefits of this mushroom, suggesting we should all add it to our diet.

They said: "Lion's Mane mushrooms may help with weight loss through various mechanisms.

"They are believed to play a role in improving fat metabolism and maintaining healthy triglyceride levels, which can be crucial for those looking to shed extra pounds. 

"Additionally, their adaptogenic properties can help manage stress, which may curb stress-induced eating. By supporting a calmer state of mind, lion's mane may help you maintain healthier eating habits, leading to better weight control over time."

They add that a study on mice showed that lion's mane extract positively influenced fat metabolism and helped maintain normal triglyceride levels, even when the mice were fed a high-fat diet.

This suggests that this mushroom could potentially help the body break down fat more effectively.

And it's not just physical health that lion's mane helps improve, but mental health too, with the experts explaining: "As a natural adaptogen, lion’s mane can help alleviate stress and improve mood, making it easier to stick to healthy routines."

A study involving women who consumed lion's mane for four weeks found a noticeable improvement in their mood compared to a placebo group.

Continuing to sing the mushroom's praises, the experts finished: "Lion’s mane mushrooms also contribute to better sleep quality, which is essential for weight management.

"Improved sleep can reduce fatigue, balance hormones, and minimise food cravings. With enhanced rest and recovery, you are more likely to maintain a consistent exercise routine and make mindful dietary choices.

"These combined benefits make lion’s mane a promising supplement for those seeking a holistic approach to wellness."