Mushrooms are one of the versatile ingredients that go with every meal whether you sauté, grill, boil, roast, or steam to give multiple flavors. Being a tasty and meaty textured treat with a savory flavor all foodies swear by this spore-bearing fruiting structure. However, they are looked upon for a cuisine change and are apt for a perfect weekend dinner. But, who knew that these dainty-looking fungi, popping up in every part of nature, can have excellent medicinal properties that will be beneficial for your health?
Yes, mushrooms are loaded with nutrients and have all the nature’s goodness that supports your complete well-being. In this article, we will be discussing a few medicinal benefits of mushrooms that have been around us for millions of years. So, let’s get started:
7 Medicinal Benefits of Mushrooms that You Need to Know
Antibacterial Food Source
Mushrooms like Ganoderma Lucidum have antifungal, antibacterial, and antiviral properties making them the king of molds and fungi. It is because of these properties, mushrooms can fight bacteria and pests.
Mushrooms inhibit the growth of varied micro-organisms and thus act as a natural antibiotic.
Great Nutritional Value
Low in calories and fat, mushrooms are rich in vital nutrients and minerals that are good for our health.
Copper, potassium, zinc, and B vitamins such as folate along with a modest amount of fibers, mushrooms have high nutritional value. However, the nutritional value may vary depending upon the method it is cultivated. Some mushrooms even contain vitamin D when grown in sunlight.
Mushrooms have a vast nutritional profile that helps lower down the risk of critical issues and strengthen the internal system of the body.
Best Antioxidant Agent
Mushrooms contain selenium, vitamin C, and choline that help the body eliminate free radicals. They prevent the accumulation of toxic byproducts in the body’s metabolism and thus frees the body from oxidative stress.
Not only this, but it also prevents the development of many critical diseases owing to which people are often advised to consume mushrooms as a nutritional supplement. Many experts suggest people include mushrooms in their diet. This is because they are one of the best ways to keep the body young, and healthy.
Polysaccharide Boosts Immune System
A polysaccharide found in Chaga mushrooms has been observed to be beneficial in increasing macrophages. Macrophages are a type of immune white blood cells that engulfs all the foreign debris, microbes, and bacteria to keep your body healthy.
In a study, an extract from Chaga mushrooms was given to mice for 24 days, it was observed that the extract increased the number of protective white blood cells.
Not only Chaga, other mushrooms like Reishi and Shitake also contain polysaccharides that boost immunity and enhance the quality of life. Also, all mushrooms contain beta-glucan that stimulates the immune system and prevents allergies and chronic fatigue while giving you a boost of energy.
Cordyceps Polysaccharide Manages Blood Sugar
Cordyceps is also a type of mushroom that is known to reduce blood glucose levels, lower down kidney markers, and support retinal functions. According to a study published in the journal Biological and Pharmaceutical Bulletin, Cordyceps sourced polysaccharides helped reduce plasma glucose levels in the mice that had genetic diabetes.
Apart from this, it was also found that Cordyceps contributed to reduce triglycerides and lower down cholesterol levels. This way, it makes a healthy snack for diabetics to munch on due to the low amount of carbs and low glycemic index.
Lion’s Mane Activates NGF peptide
Lion’s Mane is a type of mushroom that has spines and has been used for a long time as a traditional Chinese medicine for people with cognitive impairment. It contains up to 20% protein and thus was reserved for royal families of China earlier.
Lion’s Mane is observed to activate NGF (Nerve Growth Factor) peptides necessary for the growth and maintenance of neurons.
Lion’s Mane can scale cognitive function in humans and hence supports brain health.
Potassium Prevents Muscle Contraction
Do you have constipation, muscle weakness, and fatigue? Think of eating mushrooms. Mushrooms have potassium that makes it a hefty dose compared to a banana that is vital for electrolyte balance.
The presence of potassium makes it a great source to gain muscle strength and it prevents muscle contraction. So, you can consume it before or after a workout for recovery. Including mushrooms in your diet can help decrease the risk of high blood pressure and other cardiovascular diseases.
Mushrooms are loaded with essential minerals, vitamins, and nutrients, and are considered a potent health booster. All you need to do is to include them in your diet in the form of soups, powders, or tinctures.
Above were a few benefits of mushrooms that we have tried to cover in the blog. We hope you found the blog informative and useful.
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