Health Benefits of Mushrooms

This picture shows some amazing fresh wild mushrooms we had for dinner in Athens... 

It’s virtually impossible to go nutritionally astray with mushrooms (unless we’re talking the poisonous varieties)... They’re fat-free, low-sodium, low-calorie, and cholesterol-free, as well as being full of fibre, vitamins & minerals. 

Health benefits vary depending on the type of mushroom but, generally speaking, they are a great source of the following nutrients:

🍄Antioxidants - to boost immunity and help protect the body from damaging free radicals that can lead to serious health conditions like heart disease & cancer. In particular, they are rich in the antioxidant selenium which plays a key role in thyroid function and helps protect against cellular damage caused by oxidative stress

🍄Beta glucan - a form of soluble dietary fibre that’s directly linked to improving cholesterol and boosting heart health. It may also help your body regulate blood sugar, thus reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes. Oyster and shiitake mushrooms are believed to have the most effective beta glucans

🍄B vitamins - especially riboflavin, niacin, and pantothenic acid. The healthy cocktail helps protect heart health: Riboflavin is good for red blood cells, Niacin is good for the digestive system and for maintaining healthy skin, whilst Pantothenic acid supports the nervous system and helps the body make the hormones it needs

🍄Copper - helps the body make red blood cells, which deliver oxygen around the body. It is also important for skin health and maintaining healthy bones & nerves. 1-cup serving of mushrooms can provide about one-third of the daily recommended amount of copper

🍄Potassium - extremely important when it comes to heart, muscle & nerve function e.g. 2/3 cup of cooked Portobello mushroom contains as much potassium as a medium-sized banana