Sep 28, 2022
Mankind has been searching for these mycological treats for centuries. While they may just have been following their tastebuds, these plants supply humans with a whole range of health benefits. Here are four good reasons why you should be adding more mushrooms to your diet.
Disease protection: Mushrooms are an excellent source of vitamin D, which helps protect against osteoporosis, heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, and certain cancers. We usually associate vitamin D with sunshine, but we can also get vitamin D from food - with mushrooms being one of the few plant-based sources of vitamin D. (See more food options for getting a good vitamin D intake which, of course, becomes particularly important in the coming months for those of us in the northern hemisphere.)
Immune system booster: Packed with D-glucans, beta-glycosides, magnesium, zinc, and more, mushrooms are great for the immune system. The fungi are also a tremendous source of antioxidants that ward off free radicals. Each mushroom also has its own individual concoction of immune-boosting supplements. For example, shiitake mushrooms can improve immune function by reducing inflammation and helping your body fight off invading microbes.
Fuller for longer: Portobello mushrooms, for example, are high in dietary fiber, helping you feel fuller for longer.
There's also another very good reason for eating more mushrooms: they are considered one of the most sustainably sourced foods as they require fewer growing minerals, water, and energy compared to other types of crops.