Benefits Of Mushrooms: A Fungus With Surprising Health Benefits

It is true that Indian traditional foods do not include mushrooms much, but have you ever considered them as one of the healthiest foods in your diet chart? If not, then let us tell you that mushrooms are a treasure trunk of nutrients which we all need to lead a healthy life. Even many nutritionists call these edible fungi a superfood because of their benefits. So if you are looking for superfoods which are great for your super hectic lifestyle, you can go ahead and pick mushrooms to include in your daily meals. They are loaded with vital nutrients like vitamins, potassium, copper, zinc, folate among others. Also they are low in calories and cholesterol. If you are still in a dilemma on adding them to your diet chart, take a look at the benefits of mushrooms which will change your mind.

Ms. Sushma P S, Chief Dietitian, Jindal Naturecure Institute says, "From a strictly nutritional standpoint, mushrooms are quite good for the body. They are low in calories, rich in fiber and protein, and an excellent source of B vitamins, potassium, selenium and copper. Mushrooms also contain high amounts of glutathione and ergothioneine, which are antioxidants that protect cells from the damage due to diseases like cancer, Alzheimer's and heart disease. Although research is being carried out to test the medicinal properties of mushrooms, we are yet to find any conclusive evidence backing the immune-stimulating, anti-ageing, and cancer-fighting claims."

(Also read: Plant-Based Diet: It's Benefits, Superfoods To Include To Boost Immunity)

6 Amazing Benefits Of Mushrooms

Here's the list of benefits which mushrooms give us:

1. A Source Of Vitamin D

As we all know, the greatest source of vitamin D is sunlight. But there are a few foods which are considered as good sources of vitamin D, like mushrooms. Vitamin D is linked with bone health. You can be at danger of osteoporosis if the body is not supplied with enough of this vitamin. Mushrooms are the veg source of vitamin D, where all other food sources are mostly non veg like fish and meat.

2. Controls Cholesterol Levels

As we have already mentioned mushrooms are low in cholesterol, it can be a great addition to the diet chart of those suffering from high cholesterol issues. Also, it is said that, mushrooms are found with therapeutic properties to control cholesterol mainly in overweight adults. It can help us prevent the cells from sticking to blood vessel walls and creating the build-up of plaque.

3. Protects Brain Health

Benefits of mushrooms include protecting brain health too. The most common brain diseases people tend to develop in older age are Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. Mushrooms' goodness protects our brain helps keep diseases in check when we grow old.

4. An Immunity Booster

We all look for immunity boosting food to stay healthy. Mushroom can be added to the list of immunity boosting foods from children to older adults. The antioxidants present in mushrooms help keep us protected from flu and cold by eliminating free radicals present in our body. Also, mushrooms are loaded with vitamin A, B-Complex and C which are known as immunity boosters.

5. Helps In Weight Loss

Oh yes, mushroom helps in weight loss too. It is full of fibre that helps in improving digestion and keeps metabolism in check. As it is low in fat and carbohydrates, mushrooms are beneficial to maintain your weight. Also they are loaded with vital nutrients like pantothenic acid, niacin, selenium, riboflavin, and copper. These all are linked to weight loss somehow.

6. An Energy Booster

Mushrooms are a power-box of energy. They contain vitamin B complex like folate, riboflavin, thiamine, pantothenic acid and niacin. These nutrients are known for utilising energy from the food and providing it to the blood cells which carry oxygen to our vital body parts like brain, heart, kidney.

So folks! What are you waiting for? Add mushrooms to your diet chart for a healthy lifestyle.

(Also read: Is It Safe To Eat Raw Eggs?)