Fortify (Chaga)

Chaga (Inonotus obliquus) is a type of medicinal mushroom that grows on birch trees in cold climates. It has been used for centuries in traditional medicine, particularly in Russia, Siberia, and Northern Europe. Here are some of the key benefits of chaga supported by studies:

1. Rich in Antioxidants

• Chaga contains high levels of antioxidants, particularly melanin, which helps neutralize free radicals in the body. This may reduce oxidative stress and prevent cell damage, potentially lowering the risk of chronic diseases.

Reference: Shashkina, M. Y., Shashkin, P. N., Sergeev, A. A. (2006). Chemical and Medicobiological Properties of Chaga (Review). Pharmaceutical Chemistry Journal, 40(10), 560–568. DOI:10.1007/s11094-006-0223-7

2. Immune System Support

• Compounds in chaga, such as beta-glucans, can modulate immune responses. They may enhance the body’s ability to fight infections by stimulating white blood cells and reducing inflammation.

Reference: Vetvicka, V., Vetvickova, J. (2011). Immunological effects of fungal β-glucans. Journal of Medicinal Food, 14(6), 629–634. DOI:10.1089/jmf.2010.0151

3. Anti-Inflammatory Properties

• Chaga’s polyphenols and triterpenes may help reduce chronic inflammation, which is linked to various conditions like arthritis and cardiovascular diseases.

Reference: Song, F., Wang, X., Tan, X., & Ren, L. (2008). The anti-inflammatory effects of Inonotus obliquus polysaccharides on colitis induced by dextran sulfate sodium in mice. International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, 42(1), 121–127. DOI:10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2007.10.005

4. Potential Anti-Cancer Properties

• Early studies suggest that chaga extracts might have anti-cancer effects by inhibiting tumor growth and promoting apoptosis (programmed cell death) in cancer cells.

Reference: Cui, Y., Kim, D. S., Park, K. C. (2005). Antioxidant effect of Inonotus obliquus. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 96(1-2), 79–85. DOI:10.1016/j.jep.2004.08.037

5. Blood Sugar Regulation

• Some studies indicate that chaga may improve insulin sensitivity and lower blood sugar levels, making it a potential aid for managing diabetes.

Reference: Liu, W. K., Wong, M. H., Cheung, P. C. (2010). Influence of mushroom β-glucan on glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 58(3), 1202–1206. DOI:10.1021/jf9031164

6. Gastrointestinal Health

• Chaga’s bioactive compounds may promote gut health by reducing inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract and supporting beneficial gut bacteria.

Reference: Park, S. H., Lee, S. W., Song, Y. S., et al. (2011). Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities of Inonotus obliquus and its components. Mycobiology, 39(4), 252–258. DOI:10.5941/MYCO.2011.39.4.252