5 Reasons to Eat More Mushrooms

 

Image credit

Mushrooms are the little white veggies that can be a perfect accompaniment to many dishes. Mushrooms have quite a complex taste to describe and can leave behind an aftertaste that people characterize differently. But there is no denying their versatility as an ingredient in many dishes.

There are many ways to cook mushrooms and many dishes you can add them to, but far from being simply another ingredient to prepare, they come with massive health benefits too. Read on to learn more.

Reduced Risk of Cancer

That's right, eating just 2 medium-sized mushrooms per day can reduce your risk of getting cancer. While they might not be your top choice for ask, you can eat this fungus raw or cooked; they will serve you well if you include them daily. Mushrooms contain ergothioneine that slows or prevents cellular damage. Some mushrooms have higher quantities of ergothioneine than others. Make sure you eat a range of mushrooms for maximum benefits.

Vitamin D

We all know vitamin D to be a good source, and while your body doesn't produce this, most people get their daily allowance from skin exposure to the sun; mushrooms can help you easily top up those levels. Portabella and cremini mushrooms contain the highest levels of vitamin D. Still; you can cut and slice three standard mushrooms, put them in sunlight for 10 to 15 minutes, and then enjoy getting the most vitamin D from this delicious food.

Improved Immune System

Mushrooms contain many macronutrients, all of which can support your immune system and help you get the necessary nutrients. Mushrooms contain selenium, vitamin B6, and vitamin D, which your body needs to perform different functions. Vitamin B6, for example, helps to form red blood cells, proteins, and DNA, while selenium helps to prevent cell damage.

Cognitive Function

A study in Singapore found that people who ate more than 2 cups of mushrooms per week showed less cognitive decline than those who didn't. Mild cognitive impairment is a precursor to Alzheimer, and those who ate plenty of mushrooms were found to be 50% less likely to experience mental impairment. A range of different mushrooms was consumed during this trial, including oyster and white button mushrooms, and even those who eat some but not more than 2 cups per week were offered some level of protection against cognitive impairment. So eat those mushrooms and boost your brain health.

Lower Cholesterol

Shiitake mushrooms, in particular, are cited as having the most benefits when it comes to lowering cholesterol. Mushrooms contain a compound that inhibits your body from absorbing cholesterol, thus helping it to prevent high levels. If you have high cholesterol, it can be worth increasing your number of mushrooms!

Conclusion

Mushrooms, while technically not a veggie, are more than just an ingredient in your meal to increase flavor. As this post describes, they can offer you many health benefits and are extremely helpful in preserving your physical and mental health, so crack open that recipe book or enjoy them raw and experience the goodness for yourself.