I personally LOVE all mushrooms, but I know they can be an acquired (or not) taste! However, adding mushrooms to dishes is a fun way to add diverse flavor and nutrients. Mushrooms are a rich, low-calorie source of fiber, protein, and antioxidants, and the consumption of mushrooms has been linked to several health benefits!
They are a great sources of minerals:
- Mushrooms are high in Selenium, Copper, Thiamin, Magnesium, and Phosphorus
They can reduce anxiety and depression:
Mushrooms are chock full of these bioactive compounds that are known to support mental health:
- Ergothioneine and ergosterol
- Vitamin D
- Beta-glucan, which is associated with reduced anxiety, nerve growth factor (a protein that regulates growth), antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory agents. Many researchers cite this as the reason for mushrooms producing reduced effects of depression.
They can significantly lower the risk of chronic health conditions, such as:
- Alzheimer’s (including early-onset mild cognitive impairment)
- Heart disease
- Cancer
- Diabetes
Eating mushrooms can aid physical health by mitigating the risk of developing chronic disease in addition to improving cognitive function and having a positive effect on other aspects of mental health. Mushrooms can be added to a variety of foods like on pizza, salads, in pasta, or even by themselves (stuffed mushrooms, anyone??) The taste of them may not be for everyone, but their positive impact on all aspects of health cannot be denied!
Written by GUADS intern Sara with contributions from (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/) and (www.news-medical.net) and edited by staff member Kate
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