How healthy are mushrooms?
The Romans already called mushrooms the 'food of the gods'. They are low in calories but rich in protein, fiber and various vitamins and minerals. The amount varies by species, but they are usually rich in potassium, B vitamins and selenium. They are all low in fat.
They can strengthen your resistance.
Mushrooms have been used in traditional Chinese medicine for thousands of years to improve health. For example, shiitakes have long been used for colds.
They strengthen resistance to viral infections, bacteria and fungi. Beta-glucans, polysaccharides in mushrooms, may be responsible for this effect, as they can enhance resistance. Shiitake and oyster mushrooms contain the most beta-glucans.
They are beneficial for heart health
Mushrooms contain several substances that can help lower your cholesterol. These are beta-glucans, eritadenine and chitosan. A study in people with diabetes showed that eating oyster mushrooms for 14 days lowered total cholesterol and triglycerides. Blood glucose and blood pressure were also lowered. Mushrooms also contain a variety of powerful antioxidants, such as phenols and polysaccharides, which can reduce inflammation and oxidative stress. Oyster mushrooms appear to have the highest antioxidant content
Mushroom extract can prevent cancer
In Asian countries, the beta-glucans from mushrooms have long been used to treat cancer. Results of animal and test-tube research indicate that mushroom extract can reduce the chance of tumor growth. Patients undergoing chemotherapy could benefit from mushroom supplements.
Some mushrooms contain vitamin D
Just like humans, mushrooms produce vitamin D when exposed to sunlight. In fact, they are the only food of non-animal origin that contains a significant amount of vitamin D. Wild mushrooms contain a fair amount as they are exposed to sunlight. The amount depends on the climate and the width of the mushroom. Exposure to ultraviolet light before or after harvesting also boosts vitamin D production. Eating vitamin D-fortified mushrooms can improve your vitamin D status.
Closing comments
Mushrooms are a healthy food. You can easily use mushrooms to replace meat.
They are not a real meat substitute because they do not contain vitamin B12 and also less iron and proteins compared to real meat. Nevertheless, they are very nutritious. It is therefore a good idea to put these on the menu regularly so that you can take advantage of the many nutrients it contains.
Reference: Junglen Swan