"In a world filled with a seemingly endless list of environmental pollutants and diets consisting of highly processed, chemical-filled food, the epidemic of illnesses sweeping our nation will only continue to grow exponentially," said Pat McLaughlin, a researcher, educator, mushroom farmer, and owner of Sole Connection Farm in Arlington.
McLaughlin, who lives with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, has struggled throughout his life with this genetic connective tissue disorder that primarily affects the joints, skin, and blood vessels, but can also lead to neurodegeneration, spinal complications, and other health concerns.
For McLaughlin, the "constant dislocation" of his joints has caused neuropathy, resulting in symptoms like weakness, numbness, pain, and tingling as the nerves are compressed, stretched, and torn during dislocation events. During his college days, McLaughlin began exploring possible natural remedies and aids and stumbled upon mushrooms. He started taking lion's mane, which helps promote nerve growth, and turkey tail, an anti-inflammatory and immune booster. "They interact really nicely, so it provided relief," explained McLaughlin.
Now, as a producer of up to a dozen different strains of mushrooms at his home-based farm, and with a much deeper understanding of how mushrooms can improve health and wellness, McLaughlin believes that "the choices we make around food—and what we consume—can dictate the trajectory and overall quality of our lives."
Read more at The Manchester Journal