Mushrooms are healthy edible fungi that contain many minerals, like selenium, potassium, copper, iron, and phosphorus. They are known to produce spores, similar to pollen or seeds, which allows them to spread or travel by the wind.
According to research, mushrooms have important benefits and different medicinal properties. Scroll down to know more why mushrooms are packed with a powerful punch when it comes to improving one’s health.
They Are Immunity-Boosters
The ergothioneine content of mushroom is very effective in providing protection from free radicals as well as boosting the immune system. This powerful antioxidant can give a major boost to your immune system health and eliminate free radicals which are dangerous compounds and can cause significant damage and diseases.
They Can Help Fight The Signs Of Aging
Mushrooms are rich in two powerful antioxidants known as ergothioneine and glutathione, according to a 2017 study published in the journal Food Chemistry. These two important components can help protect our body against physiological stress that causes wrinkles, one of the early and visible signs of aging.
They Can Help Protect Against Cancer
In a study, researchers have found that mushrooms have the potential of lowering our risk of cancer by protecting our cells against DNA damage and preventing tumor formation.
Moreover, in a separate study, results showed that five types of mushrooms (maitake, crimini, portabella, oyster and white button) can significantly suppress breast cancer cell growth and reproduction.
They Can Help Improve Our Brain Health As We Age
Results have shown that mushrooms may play an important part in the management and treatment of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s. Intake of at least 5 button mushrooms every day can help lower our risk of developing neurological disorders as we age.
May Help Lower Blood Pressure
Mushrooms, particularly shiitake and maitake mushrooms, contain high levels of potassium. This mineral helps calm tension in blood vessels and assist in lowering down blood pressure. Take note that high blood pressure is associated with deadly conditions such as strokes and heart attacks.
May Assist In Strengthening Our Bones
Being rich in calcium, mushrooms can help in the formation and strengthening of bones as well as lower our chances of developing osteoporosis and experiencing joint pain.
Can Help Give Us Energy
Mushrooms are rich in B vitamins including thiamine [B1], niacin [B3], riboflavin [B2], folate [B9], pantothenic acid [B5]. These important components help the body utilize energy from the food we consume and produce red blood cells, which carry oxygen throughout the body.
How to Eat More Mushrooms
Looking for ways to add more mushrooms into one’s diet? Check out the suggestions below.
- Slice some mushroom into a pasta sauce. They can also add great flavor and texture to nearly any side dish.
- Cut up a small mushroom and then mix it into omelets or scrambled eggs at breakfast or brunch.
- Grilled mushrooms can be used as a side dish or a vegetarian dish.
- Add them to soups, sandwiches, wraps, casseroles, and Italian dishes.
