Expert reveals alternative to caffeine that 'fights dementia and prevents energy crash'

EXCLUSIVE: Caffeine has been linked to some negative side effects including irritability and anxiety but experts have been praising an alternative that can help boost energy levels while also providing other benefits for the brain.

By Rosie Jempson, US News Reporter

13:35, Sat, Jul 13, 2024 | UPDATED: 13:36, Sat, Jul 13, 2024

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Experts have been praising an alternative to caffeine that "improves energy levels" without causing "energy and mood crashes" often associated with coffee and other caffeine alterantives.

Lion's Mane is rich in antioxidants, which can help protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals. It can also help reduce inflammation in the body, which is linked to a variety of health problems.

Georgi Grogan, Nutritional Health Coach & Founder of Sixways, told Daily Express: "Lion's Mane mushroom is known for its neuroprotective properties, stimulating the production of nerve growth factor to enhance brain function, which can lead to improved mood and sustained energy."

When feeling a bit sleepy, many people will turn to coffee for a pick-me-up but experts warn of the negative side effects this can cause.

Grogan said: "Caffeine can cause rapid spikes and subsequent crashes in energy, caused by temporary adrenaline release, dehydration and cortisol spikes.

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Overtime worker drinking coffee sitting dark office close up. Workaholic working

Expert reveals 'praised' alternative to caffeine that 'fights dementia and prevents energy crash' (Image: Getty)

"Caffeine stimulates the release of cortisol, a stress hormone whose levels naturally fluctuate throughout the day, peaking in the morning to help wake you up.

"However, excessive or irregular spikes in cortisol due to caffeine consumption can contribute to feelings of anxiety, restlessness, and eventual fatigue once the cortisol levels drop."

Instead of causing crashes, Lion's Mane doesn't cause cortisol spikes, and promotes steady, long-lasting energy without the jitteriness, making it a beneficial alternatives for sustained vitality and mental clarity, she said.

As well as helping with enegry levels, Lion's Mane - which can be drank in coffee form - can also help protect your brain against dementia, experts say.

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Lion's Mane mushrooms

Lion's Mane mushrooms have been praised for their health benefits (Image: Getty)

The brain’s ability to grow and form new connections typically declines as we get older, which may explain why mental functioning worsens in later life.

Studies have found that Lion’s Mane mushrooms contain two special compounds that can stimulate the growth of brain cells called hericenones and erinacines, according to Healthline.

This has also been shows to help protect against Alzheimer’s disease in animal studies.

A 2020 study of people with mild Alzheimer’s disease found that supplementation with 1 gram of Lion’s Mane mushroom daily for 49 weeks significantly improved cognitive test scores compared with a placebo, the experts at Healthline explained.