8 Health Benefits of Mushrooms

[Carmen Elsa Irarragorri Wyland]

There are roughly 140,000 species of mushrooms in the world, but science is only familiar with around 10%, while only around 100 species or so are being studied for their potential health benefits and medicinal applications. Below are 8 of the most well-known health benefits of the humble, but delicious mushroom.

1. Lowers Cholesterol Levels

Mushrooms provide you with lean proteins since they have no cholesterol or fat and are low in carbohydrates. The fiber and enzymes in mushrooms also help to lower cholesterol levels. Furthermore, the high lean protein found in them helps to burn cholesterol when they’re digested. Having balanced levels of LDL cholesterol (bad cholesterol) and HDL (good cholesterol) is essential for preventing cardiovascular diseases such as artherosclerosis, strokes, and heart attacks.

2. Prevents Anemia

 Anemic patients have low levels of iron in their blood, resulting in headaches, fatigue, reduced neural function, and digestive issues. Mushrooms are a great source of iron, and over 90% of the nutritive value can be absorbed by the body, which promotes the formation of red blood cells and keeps you healthy and functioning at your full potential.

3. Prevents Breast Cancer and Prostate Cancer

Mushrooms are highly effective at preventing breast and prostate cancer thanks to the significant presence of beta-glucans and conjugated linoleic acid, which have anti-carcinogenic effects. Out of these two, linoleic acid helps to suppress the harmful effects of excess estrogen. This increase in estrogen is one of the prime causes for breast cancer in women after menopause. On the other hand, the beta glucans inhibit the growth of cancer cells in the prostrate.

4. Helps Diabetics

Mushrooms are an ideal low-energy food for diabetics. They have no fat, no cholesterol, low levels of carbohydrates, a high protein content, and numerous vitamins and minerals. They also contain a lot of fiber and water. Furthermore, they contain natural insulin and enzymes which help to break down sugar and starch in food. They are also known to contain certain compounds which help the liver, pancreas, and other endocrine glands to function properly, thereby promoting the formation of insulin and its proper regulation throughout the body.

5. Improves Bone Health

Mushrooms are full of calcium, which is an essential nutrient when it comes down to the formation and strengthening of bones. A continual supply of calcium in your diet can reduce your chances of developing conditions such as osteoporosis, and can also reduce joint pain and the lack of mobility that is often associated with bone degradation.

6. Helps with Nutrient Absorption

Vitamin D is a rare vitamin to find in vegetables, but mushrooms, which are technically a fungus, have plenty of it. This essential vitamin can facilitate the absorption and metabolism of calcium and phosphorous. They also contain these two nutrients, so the combined effect of having all these nutrients in one powerful source makes it a great idea to eat mushrooms whenever possible.

7. Helps to Reduce Blood Pressure

Mushrooms are high in potassium, a vasodilator that relaxes tension in the blood vessels which reduces blood pressure. High blood pressure can cause heart attacks and strokes. Furthermore, potassium also increases cognitive function because increased blood and oxygen can flow to the brain.

8. Contains Plenty of Selenium

The selenium content of mushrooms is one of their most beneficial elements that is often overlooked. The main source of selenium is animal proteins; however, due to their classification as a fungus that feeds off animal and plant matter, mushrooms are the best way for vegetarians to obtain the necessary amount of selenium. Selenium helps to strengthen bones, teeth, nails, and hair. Furthermore, this nutrient is a powerful antioxidant, which helps the body get rid of free radicals that could potentially cause cancer.