Consuming five mushrooms daily might aid in fighting heart disease and cancer.
Mushrooms are low in calories and rich in vital vitamins and minerals, making them a great addition to one's meals.
Recent research suggests that eating just five small mushrooms each day can help prevent various illnesses, such as heart disease, cancer, and dementia.
This effect arises from two primary antioxidants—ergothioneine and glutathione.
These compounds play a crucial role in counteracting harmful ‘free radicals,’ which are associated with numerous serious health conditions, according to scientists.
“We have discovered that mushrooms undeniably serve as the richest dietary source of both antioxidants combined, with certain types being especially abundant in them,” stated Robert Beelman, director of the Penn State Centre for Plant and Mushroom Products for Health in the US.
Portobello, enoki, porcini, chanterelle, stinkhorn, puffball, dung cannon, hair ice, and the difficult-to-pronounce Hydnellum peckii are just a few examples; thus, remembering or pronouncing the names of nearly 14,000 mushroom varieties worldwide can be challenging.
Not all mushrooms are safe to eat, as some are toxic and have grim names (such as Deadly Dapperling, Destroying Angels, Death Cap, and Autumn Skullcap).
Certain psychedelic mushrooms are so hallucinogenic that they are deemed illegal in several countries.
However, many edible varieties offer a wealth of nutrients.
As reported by the Mushroom Foundation of India based in Coimbatore, mushrooms are high in protein, carbohydrates, and vitamins, while being low in calories, making them a good choice for heart and diabetes patients.
Compared to cereals, fruits, and vegetables, mushrooms have a higher protein content, and this protein remains intact even after cooking.
With their low-calorie count, high protein, significant fibre content, and favourable sodium-to-potassium ratio, mushrooms are recommended for individuals with diabetes and high blood pressure, according to researchers.
In India, eight mushroom varieties are prevalent, including button mushrooms, which are small, edible mushrooms with a closed cap and light brown or pale white flesh.
This variety is the most widely cultivated and consumed mushroom type globally.
Mushrooms provide essential nutrients such as vitamins (B and D), minerals (selenium, copper, and potassium), and antioxidants.
Oyster mushrooms are renowned for their tender texture and smooth consistency; a cup of raw, sliced oyster mushrooms contains only 28 calories and is low in fat, cholesterol, and sodium while being rich in nutrients like niacin, folic acid, vitamins C and B12, and the amino acid ergothioneine.
Other mushroom varieties found in India include shiitake, cordyceps, lion’s mane, reishi, turkey tail, and Chaga mushrooms.
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