More and more research studies shows that mushrooms could easily enter the super-food category, along with broccoli and blueberries. Their main benefits are that reduce the risk of heart disease and cancer.
Important Sources of Fiber, Vitamins and Minerals
Mushrooms may seem trivial, but they are really super-food. They do not contain any fat, sugar or salt and are a valuable source of fiber and B vitamins: vitamin B1, riboflavin (B2), niacin (B3), pyridoxine (B6) and folacin (folic acid).
Mushrooms also contain essential minerals including potassium, copper, iron and phosphorus. But most significant is selenium, which is not found in too many fruits or vegetables. With more than 90% water content, adding mushrooms to your daily meals can make you feel full without having to raise the calories content.
It was also discovered that the active antiviral compound in Lentinan strengthen in the immune system. They can also help lower blood cholesterol and reduce the harmful effects of saturated fat.
On the other hand, mushrooms are a rich source of beta-glucan, which has potential anti-tumor effects. Even small amounts of mushrooms can thin the blood, helping to prevent heart disease and strokes.
Rich In Antioxidants
Mushrooms could bring significant health benefits. Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania found that only a few fungi have 12 times the amount of a potent antioxidant than wheat germ and four times more than chicken liver, until now considered as the most important sources.
L-Ergothioneine effect on unstable chemicals that attack and harm permanent cell membranes, known as free radicals, protects the body from DNA damage.
The Hanyang University in South Korea found that mushrooms may lower the risk of breast cancer. Although there are many types of mushrooms, of which more than 2,500 grow wild, so far research has focused on exotic varieties.
Easy To Find and Cook
Mushrooms are at hand for each of us and we can add this food in our daily consumption. That’s because fruits and vegetables have to get the full range of nutritional benefits that our body needs.