Description
BioFlow Fermented Mushroom Blend Powder: 6-Mushroom Complex with Prebiotics, Vitamin C & Beta-Glucans
Product Overview
BioFlow Fermented Mushroom Blend is a comprehensive powdered supplement combining six organically grown, fermented mushroom species (mycelial biomass): Cordyceps militaris, Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum), Royal Sun Agaricus (Agaricus blazei / Himematsutake), Shiitake (Lentinula edodes), Maitake (Grifola frondosa), and Turkey Tail (Trametes versicolor). These mushrooms are micro-cultured through a proprietary probiotic fermentation process designed to support bioavailability and digestion of naturally occurring polysaccharides (beta-glucans), vitamins, and minerals.*
This formula also includes Vitamin C, Organic Prebiotic Fiber Blend (Inulin, Green Tea Extract, Fermented Ginger Root), and Acerola Cherry Extract to support immune function and overall wellness. Designed for adults seeking comprehensive mushroom supplementation with enhanced bioavailability as part of a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle.*
Ingredients
Per Serving (1 Scoop):
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Vitamin C — [amount not disclosed]
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Organic Prebiotic Fiber Blend: Organic Inulin, Organic Green Tea Extract, Organic Fermented Ginger Root — [amounts not disclosed]
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Organic Immune Blend (Mushroom Mycelial Biomass Blend):
- Cordyceps (Cordyceps militaris)
- Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum)
- Himematsutake (Royal Sun Agaricus) (Agaricus blazei)
- Shiitake (Lentinula edodes)
- Maitake (Grifola frondosa)
- Turkey Tails (Trametes versicolor)
- Acerola Cherry Extract
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Total Beta-Glucan (from Organic Immune Blend) — [amount not disclosed]
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Organic Cassava Maltodextrin (carrier/flow agent)
Product Details
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Manufacturer's Country: USA
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Product Amount: 0.46 lb (210 g) (approximately 30 servings, depending on scoop size)
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Gross Weight: 0.6 lb (272 g)
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Format: Powdered supplement (mix into food or drinks)
Suggested Use
Take one scoop daily mixed into food or drinks or as directed by a health professional.
Usage Tips:
- Mix into smoothies, yogurt, oatmeal, coffee, tea, or juice
- Start with a smaller amount (half scoop) if new to mushroom supplementation to assess tolerance
- Take with food to minimize potential digestive upset
Important Warnings and Cautions
⚠️ USE ONLY IF SEAL IS INTACT:
- Do not use if safety seal is damaged or missing.
❌ DO NOT USE IF:
- You are pregnant or nursing (consult health care practitioner first — safety of medicinal mushroom supplementation during pregnancy/lactation is not well-established)
- You are under the age of 18 (consult health care practitioner first)
- You have a known medical condition (consult health care practitioner first)
- You have mushroom allergies or have experienced allergic reactions to fungi
- You have bleeding disorders or clotting issues (some medicinal mushrooms may have blood-thinning effects)
- You have autoimmune conditions (lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, etc.) — medicinal mushrooms can stimulate immune function, which may worsen autoimmune symptoms
🩺 CONSULT A HEALTH CARE PRACTITIONER BEFORE USE IF YOU:
- Are taking prescription medications (especially immunosuppressants, blood thinners, chemotherapy drugs, diabetes medications, blood pressure medications)
- Are taking immunosuppressant medications (after organ transplant, for autoimmune conditions, etc.) — medicinal mushrooms may interfere with immunosuppression
- Have autoimmune conditions (lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, MS, Hashimoto's, etc.) — immune-stimulating mushrooms may worsen symptoms
- Have diabetes or blood sugar regulation issues (some medicinal mushrooms may affect blood sugar levels)
- Have bleeding disorders or are taking blood-thinning medications (Warfarin, Aspirin, Clopidogrel, etc.) — some mushrooms may have anticoagulant properties
- Have liver disease or impaired liver function (rare cases of liver toxicity have been reported with certain mushroom supplements)
- Have kidney disease or impaired kidney function
- Are scheduled for surgery (discontinue at least 2 weeks prior — some mushrooms may affect blood clotting and blood sugar during surgery)
- Are taking other supplements containing medicinal mushrooms, Vitamin C, or herbal extracts (to avoid excessive intake)
- Have a history of allergic reactions to mushrooms or fungi
⚠️ POTENTIAL SIDE EFFECTS:
Common Side Effects (generally mild):
- Digestive upset, nausea, diarrhea, stomach cramps (especially when first starting or if taken on an empty stomach)
- Gas or bloating (due to prebiotic fiber content)
- Dry mouth or throat irritation (rare)
- Skin rash or itching (allergic reaction)
Serious Side Effects (rare but possible):
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Allergic reactions (hives, swelling, difficulty breathing — discontinue immediately and seek emergency medical attention)
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Bleeding or bruising (due to anticoagulant effects of some mushrooms)
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Blood sugar fluctuations (can cause hypoglycemia in diabetics taking medication)
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Worsening of autoimmune symptoms (in individuals with autoimmune conditions)
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Liver toxicity (rare but reported with certain mushroom supplements, particularly Reishi with prolonged high-dose use)
🚨 CRITICAL WARNING — GREEN TEA EXTRACT AND LIVER TOXICITY:
This product contains Green Tea Extract. High-dose green tea extract supplements (particularly those standardized for EGCG, the active catechin) have been linked to rare cases of liver toxicity, including liver damage requiring hospitalization.
While the amount of green tea extract in this product is likely low (not disclosed), individuals with liver disease or impaired liver function should use caution. If you experience symptoms of liver toxicity (jaundice [yellowing of skin/eyes], dark urine, severe abdominal pain, persistent fatigue, nausea), discontinue use immediately and seek medical attention.
🚨 CRITICAL WARNING — AUTOIMMUNE CONDITIONS:
Medicinal mushrooms can stimulate immune function. While this may be beneficial for supporting general immune health in healthy individuals, it can worsen symptoms in people with autoimmune conditions, where the immune system is already overactive and attacking the body's own tissues.
If you have lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, Hashimoto's thyroiditis, Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, or any other autoimmune condition, DO NOT use this product without medical supervision.
🚨 CRITICAL WARNING — IMMUNOSUPPRESSANT MEDICATIONS:
If you are taking immunosuppressant medications (after organ transplant, for autoimmune conditions, or for other reasons), medicinal mushrooms may interfere with your treatment by stimulating immune function that your medication is trying to suppress.
DO NOT use this product if you are taking:
- Organ transplant anti-rejection drugs (cyclosporine, tacrolimus, sirolimus, etc.)
- Corticosteroids (prednisone, methylprednisolone, etc.)
- Biologics for autoimmune conditions (infliximab, adalimumab, etanercept, etc.)
- Chemotherapy drugs
- Other immunosuppressants
🚨 CRITICAL WARNING — BLEEDING DISORDERS AND BLOOD THINNERS:
Some medicinal mushrooms (particularly Reishi, Maitake, and Cordyceps) may have anticoagulant (blood-thinning) effects. If you have a bleeding disorder or are taking blood-thinning medications (Warfarin, Aspirin, Clopidogrel, Heparin, etc.), do NOT use this product without medical supervision.
If you are scheduled for surgery, discontinue this product at least 2 weeks prior to reduce bleeding risk during and after the procedure.
🚨 CRITICAL WARNING — DIABETES MEDICATION INTERACTION:
Some medicinal mushrooms (particularly Reishi and Maitake) may lower blood sugar levels. If you have diabetes or take medications that affect blood sugar (insulin, metformin, sulfonylureas, etc.), do NOT use this product without medical supervision.
Signs of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia):
- Shakiness, dizziness, confusion
- Rapid heartbeat, sweating
- Extreme hunger, irritability
- Blurred vision, weakness
If you experience these symptoms, discontinue use immediately and seek medical attention.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place. Keep out of reach of children.
Understanding Fermented Mushroom Supplements
What is Fermentation, and Why Does It Matter?
This product features fermented mushroom mycelial biomass — mushrooms that have been grown on a substrate (nutrient base) and processed through a probiotic fermentation method. The claimed benefits of fermentation include:
1. Breaking Down Chitin:
Mushroom cell walls contain chitin, an indigestible fiber that locks away polysaccharides (beta-glucans) and other compounds. Traditional preparation methods (cooking, hot water extraction) break down chitin to release these compounds. Fermentation is another method claimed to achieve this.
2. Enhancing Bioavailability:
Fermentation is claimed to "pre-digest" mushrooms, making polysaccharides, vitamins, and minerals more bioavailable (easier for the body to absorb and utilize).
3. Adding Probiotic Metabolites:
Fermentation produces metabolites (byproducts) from beneficial microorganisms, which may have additional health-supporting properties.
Important Considerations:
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Mycelial biomass vs. fruiting bodies: This product uses mycelial biomass (the root-like structure of mushrooms grown on a substrate), not fruiting bodies (the mushroom caps and stems you see in nature). There is ongoing debate in the mushroom supplement industry about which is superior:
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Fruiting bodies: Contain higher concentrations of polysaccharides (beta-glucans) and are used in most traditional medicine and clinical research.
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Mycelial biomass: Contains both mycelium and substrate (often grain-based), which can dilute polysaccharide content with starch. However, proponents argue fermentation enhances bioavailability.
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Beta-glucan content is undisclosed: While the product mentions "Total Beta-Glucan," the actual amount per serving is not disclosed, making it difficult to compare potency to research dosages or other products.
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Research on fermented mushroom supplements is limited: Most medicinal mushroom research uses hot water extracts of fruiting bodies, not fermented mycelial biomass. The effectiveness of fermentation for enhancing bioavailability in humans is not well-established.
What's in This Formula?
This supplement combines six fermented mushroom species:
1. Cordyceps militaris:
Traditionally used for energy, endurance, and vitality. Some research suggests potential benefits for athletic performance and fatigue.*
2. Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum):
"Mushroom of Immortality" in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Traditionally used for immune support, stress resilience, and longevity.*
3. Royal Sun Agaricus (Agaricus blazei / Himematsutake):
Traditionally used in Brazilian and Japanese folk medicine for immune support and overall wellness.*
4. Shiitake (Lentinula edodes):
Culinary and medicinal mushroom rich in beta-glucans. Traditionally used for immune support and cardiovascular health.*
5. Maitake (Grifola frondosa):
"Dancing Mushroom" in Japanese. Traditionally used for immune support and metabolic health. Contains D-fraction polysaccharides.*
6. Turkey Tail (Trametes versicolor):
One of the most researched medicinal mushrooms. Contains PSK and PSP polysaccharides studied for immune support.*
Additional Ingredients:
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Vitamin C: Supports immune function and antioxidant activity.
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Prebiotic Fiber Blend (Inulin, Green Tea Extract, Fermented Ginger Root): Supports gut microbiome balance and digestive health.
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Acerola Cherry Extract: Natural source of Vitamin C and antioxidants.
Setting Realistic Expectations
✅ What This Supplement IS:
- A comprehensive fermented mushroom powder combining six mushroom species with prebiotics, Vitamin C, and beta-glucans
- Designed to support immune function, overall wellness, and digestive health through fermented mycelial biomass*
- A convenient powdered format for mixing into food and drinks
- Suitable for adults seeking mushroom supplementation as part of a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle
❌ What This Supplement is NOT:
- NOT a treatment for immune disorders, infections, cancer, or any medical condition
- NOT a guaranteed immune booster (and may be dangerous for individuals with autoimmune conditions or taking immunosuppressants)
- NOT proven to be superior to fruiting body extracts (the debate between mycelial biomass vs. fruiting bodies continues, and most research uses fruiting bodies)
- NOT appropriate for pregnant/nursing women, children, or individuals with autoimmune conditions, bleeding disorders, diabetes, or those taking certain medications without professional guidance
- NOT a substitute for a balanced diet, adequate sleep, stress management, or medical treatment for diagnosed conditions
Understanding "Immunomodulating" and "Immune Support" Claims
⚠️ IMPORTANT CLARIFICATION:
While this product is marketed for "immune support," supplements cannot replace a healthy immune system or prevent disease.
What the research actually shows:
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Beta-glucans (polysaccharides) from medicinal mushrooms may support healthy immune function by modulating immune cell activity, but this does not mean they prevent or treat infections, cancer, or immune disorders.
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Most research uses hot water extracts of fruiting bodies, not fermented mycelial biomass, making it difficult to extrapolate findings to this specific product.
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"Immunomodulating" does NOT mean "immune boosting" — it means supporting balanced immune function, which can be beneficial for some individuals but harmful for those with autoimmune conditions (where the immune system is already overactive).
Bottom line: If you want to support a healthy immune system, focus on evidence-based strategies:
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Balanced diet (fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, healthy fats)
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Adequate sleep (7-9 hours per night)
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Regular physical activity (150 minutes moderate-intensity exercise per week)
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Stress management (chronic stress suppresses immune function)
- Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol
- Stay up-to-date on vaccinations
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Practice good hygiene (hand washing, food safety)
Mushroom supplementation may provide modest additional support, but it's not a substitute for foundational healthy behaviors.
When to Consult a Healthcare Provider
Seek professional medical advice if you:
- Have autoimmune conditions and are considering immune-modulating supplements
- Are taking immunosuppressant medications (organ transplant anti-rejection drugs, biologics, corticosteroids, etc.)
- Have bleeding disorders or are taking blood-thinning medications
- Have diabetes or blood sugar regulation issues
- Have liver disease or impaired liver function (due to green tea extract content)
- Are pregnant, nursing, or planning to become pregnant
- Are scheduled for surgery (discontinue at least 2 weeks prior)
- Experience unusual symptoms (jaundice, severe digestive upset, allergic reactions, bleeding, blood sugar fluctuations) after using this product (discontinue immediately and seek medical attention)
- Want personalized guidance on immune support, mushroom supplementation, or wellness strategies based on your individual health status
Disclaimer
This statement has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Individual results vary significantly. Medicinal mushrooms can interact with medications and may worsen autoimmune conditions — individuals with autoimmune disorders, bleeding disorders, diabetes, liver disease, or those taking immunosuppressants, blood thinners, or other medications must consult a healthcare professional before use. Supplements are not substitutes for a balanced diet, adequate sleep, regular physical activity, or professional medical care. Discontinue use at least 2 weeks before surgery. Pregnant or nursing women should not use this product without medical supervision.
