6 Amazing Health Benefits Of Mushrooms

Mushrooms are nothing but edible fungus that is now being extensively studied and used for their health benefits. There are many types of mushrooms available, some of them are edible and some are not edible, and maybe poisonous too. Some edible mushrooms commonly available in the market are button, oyster, porcini etc.

In this article, we will cover the health benefits and nutritional value of mushrooms. We will also learn how to use mushrooms in your dishes.

# Rich in Immune-Boosting Nutrients

Mushrooms are rich in antioxidants like selenium, vitamin C and choline. Along with antioxidants, mushrooms also contain protein, B-complex vitamins, and fiber. All these nutrients together help prevent cell and tissue damage and thus support our immune system.

# Vegetarian Source of Vitamin D

Corona pandemic has made us well aware of the importance of this one nutrient – Vitamin D. Vitamin D was always known for its bones and joint role, but new research shows that vitamin d can play a very important role in avoiding COVID related deaths by not allowing coronavirus to enter our respiratory tract and protecting like a true warrior. White button mushrooms are commonly consumed mushrooms all over the world. Mushrooms contain a “provitamin” called ergosterol that after exposure to sunlight gets converted to Vitamin D. They are grown right under the sunlight and hence this helps in increasing their Vitamin D concentration while growing.

# May Help Prevent Cancers

Mushrooms have a rich profile of antioxidants and B-complex vitamins. These nutrients are being studied to protect our cells from damage and also may inhibit tumor formation. Due to this mechanism, it may help prevent lung, breast, prostate, and other types of cancer development, as per the National Cancer Institute.

# Could Improve Heart Health

Beta-Glucan is a soluble fiber that is commonly found in mushrooms. This soluble fiber is strongly linked with lowering cholesterol levels and improving heart health. Also practically, mushrooms can be easily replaced with salt because of the presence of glutamate ribonucleotides. These compounds are responsible for the salty, umami taste of mushrooms. Thus, this function can also have a positive impact on your blood pressure and may reduce the risk of heart disease. Antioxidants, low in calories, and Vitamin D are some of the added benefits to improve your heart’s overall health.

# Might Help Lose Weight

We now know that mushrooms are low in calories, providing merely 19 kcal per 1 cup. But, did you know, it got a job in helping to lose weight. Being a source of protein and fiber, mushrooms can be a part of your diet food. Studies have also shown that mushrooms can help regulate blood sugar levels and thus helps to burn fat tremendously. B-complex vitamins will also provide you energy to perform longer workouts.

# Can Help to Prevent Wrinkles

Mushrooms are high in antioxidants like glutathione, Vitamin C, and selenium. These antioxidants are studied to help work against the signs of aging, especially wrinkles.