5 Health Benefits of Mushrooms

For many years, mushrooms have been used for their special ability to add flavor to different cultures’ cuisines. However, although they are fungi, mushrooms are put in the vegetable category for cooking purposes, and there are now even more reasons to add them to your daily diet. They are fat and cholesterol-free, low in calories, and packed with fiber, minerals, and vitamins. Here are the five top benefits of mushrooms:

Help with weight loss

Mushrooms have a high water content, but they are low in calories. They are approximately 90% water and three calories in a half cup. Mushrooms are rich in pectin, a soluble fiber that reduces digestion, making you feel fuller for longer.

Mushrooms are also a great source of copper, a mineral that helps your body digest fat. Manufactured from copper-rich mushrooms, products such as Siberian Chaga contribute to collagen formation in the skin, which is essential for healthy, glowing skin. It also offers important minerals for healthy hair.

Great source of vitamins and minerals

Mushrooms are the primary source of vitamins and minerals essential for good health. They are high in vitamin B, particularly riboflavin and thiamine, which help the body digest carbohydrates. They are also a great source of pantothenic and niacin acids, essential for metabolism. Mushrooms are the only plants that generate Vitamin D, which has numerous health benefits, such as boosting the immune system.

Mushrooms also contain some minerals that are essential for good health. They are rich in selenium, a vital mineral that enhances immune system function and helps prevent progeria. Mushrooms are also a great source of iron, which supplies oxygen all over the body, boosting muscle and brain function.  

Enhance gut health

Your gut contains bacteria that play a huge role in your health and mood. Enhancing the growth of healthy bacteria in the microbiome using prebiotics, such as mushrooms, is one way to keep your gut healthy.

Studies show that mushroom polysaccharides enhance the growth of healthy bacteria. Although most foods are broken down by gastric acid, the polysaccharides found in mushrooms go through the stomach unaltered and may reach the colon and stimulate bacteria growth.

Reduce the risk of cancer

A higher routine mushroom intake can lower the risk of any cancer, particularly in the case of breast cancer. Mushrooms are rich in ergothioneine and glutathione, which can help prevent or slow cellular damage.

Some of the mushrooms that are high in ergothioneine include king oyster, shiitake, and maitake. However, research has shown that incorporating any mushroom variety into your daily diet can lower the risk of cancer. 

Help fight depression and anxiety

Mushrooms are a great source of Vitamin B6 and tryptophan, which are essential for proper brain function. In addition, they contain serotonin, a neurotransmitter that helps regulate sleep, appetite, and mood. Mushrooms have been found to contain anti-depressant properties and are being studied as a potential cure for mental disorders such as depression, stress, and anxiety.

Endnote

Mushrooms might be underrated due to their lack of vigorous colors like other vegetables, but they have many health benefits. You can add mushrooms to your dishes in many different ways, such as cooking them with chicken or beef or including them in your salad or soup. However, be aware of the variety and expiry date before consumption, as many mushroom varieties are poisonous and can cause serious reactions in your body.