Sukoharjonews.com – Mushrooms or fungi are organisms that belong to the Fungi kingdom and do not have chlorophyll so they are heterotrophic. Fungi are unicellular and multicellular. Its body is made up of threads called hyphae. The hyphae can form a branching network called a mycelium.
In a report from UCLA Health, Friday (9/12/2022), it appears that not many people know about the various benefits of mushrooms. Mushrooms add savory flavor to food without adding a lot of fat, calories or sodium. But the health benefits don’t end there. Researchers continue to discover how mushrooms can ward off chronic disease and improve day-to-day health. Read on to discover the seven health benefits of mushrooms for you:
1. Reduce the risk of cancer
A review of 17 cancer studies from 1966 to 2020 showed that eating just 18 grams of mushrooms (equivalent to about 1/8 cup or two medium mushrooms) per day reduced cancer risk by 45%. Mushrooms are a potent source of ergothioneine, an amino acid and antioxidant that prevents or slows down cell damage.
2. Balancing your sodium intake
Sodium and high blood pressure often go hand in hand. Sodium causes the body to retain excess fluid, which can raise blood pressure. To reduce your sodium intake, consider adding mushrooms to your diet.
3. Promotes lowering of cholesterol
Mushrooms are an excellent substitute for red meat, minimizing calories, fat and cholesterol. Research shows that shiitake mushrooms, in particular, help keep cholesterol levels down. They contain compounds that inhibit the production of cholesterol, block the absorption of cholesterol and reduce the overall amount of cholesterol in the blood.
4. Protect brain health
Researchers continue to study the effects of mushroom consumption on mild cognitive impairment (MCI). MCI causes memory and speech difficulties and is often a precursor to Alzheimer’s disease.
5. Provides a source of vitamin D
Vitamin D helps your body absorb calcium to maintain and build strong bones. Many people rely on supplements or sunlight for vitamin D, but if you’re looking to get this nutrient through food, mushrooms may be the answer. They are the only type of product that is a source of vitamin D.
6. Stimulates a healthier gut
The microbiome in your gut is home to organisms and bacteria that play a huge role in your health and mood. One way to maintain gut health is to stimulate the growth of healthy bacteria in the space using prebiotics, such as mushrooms.
7. Supports a healthy immune system
Mushrooms contain macronutrients that support a healthy immune system. According to the Mushroom Council, your immune system will benefit from mushrooms whose nutrients include:
– Selenium, which helps your body produce antioxidant enzymes to prevent cell damage. Choose cremini or Mushroom Break it for maximum benefits.
– Vitamin D, which helps cell growth, boosts immune function and reduces inflammation. Maitake mushrooms offer an easy way to add vitamin D to your diet.
– Vitamin B6, which helps the body form red blood cells, proteins and DNA. Shiitake mushrooms are the best choice for vitamin B6. (patricia argi/mg)
