The Hidden Benefits of Mushrooms

In Western cultures, people think of mushrooms primarily in terms of their culinary benefits. After all, there are dozens of kinds of edible mushrooms that enhance flavor and create a unique, gourmet appeal. Lately, though, more attention has been rightfully given to the less obvious benefits of mushrooms. This article will offer a brief overview of why so many people these days are incorporating mushroom products into not just their food but also their health and wellness routines.

Key Nutrients Found in Mushrooms

Whether consumed in supplement form as mushroom hot chocolate or incorporated into a normal diet, mushrooms have been known for some time to contain important nutrients. While every mushroom has a slightly different nutrient profile, most contain high concentrations of four key antioxidants:

1. Ergothioneine

Ergothioneine is an antioxidant amino acid discovered in 1909 but did not start receiving the attention it deserved until the early 2000s when scientists realized how important it is to human health. Unlike some antioxidants, ergothioneine cannot be manufactured endogenously by the human body and thus needs to be obtained from dietary sources. Mushrooms contain at least 10 times the level of this essential nutrient as any other food.

2. Glutathione

Glutathione is considered one of the most important antioxidants not just for humans but for all living organisms. No other food source can come close to mushrooms when it comes to concentrations of this master antioxidant.

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3. Vitamin D

Unlike glutathione and ergothioneine, vitamin D can be synthesized by the human body. Because of that, people tend to assume they're getting enough vitamin D from sun exposure, alone. In fact, over one billion people worldwide are vitamin D deficient. Mushrooms are an excellent dietary source of this essential vitamin.

4. Selenium

Selenium isn't as widely known as vitamin D, but it's just as nutritionally essential. This antioxidant also aids in DNA synthesis, thyroid hormone metabolism, and reproduction. Plus, it's one key to recent research indicating that mushroom consumption may be linked to cancer prevention.

Immune-Boosting Benefits

These days, most people are aware of how important proper immune function is. Consuming any kind of mushroom can increase the production of antiviral proteins, but those that are higher in choline and vital antioxidants could be even better at boosting immune function. Reishi, Chaga, and cordyceps mushrooms are all known to provide exceptionally high levels of immune support and regulation. 

Improved Heart Health

Mushrooms got a reputation for being heart-healthy originally thanks to the fact that they are a low-calorie, fat-free source of nutrients. Now, scientists know that mushrooms also contain beta-glucans and B vitamins, both of which can lower cholesterol. Mushrooms are also replete with fiber, potassium, and vitamin C, all of which work in concert to regulate blood pressure and reduce cardiovascular disease risk in healthy adults.

Memory Boosting Mushrooms

Some mushrooms, most notably Lion's Mane, are even known for boosting memory and cognition. Consuming mushrooms every day can reduce the chances of developing cognitive decline associated with aging. Plus, some mushrooms are neuroprotective, meaning that they can be considered an effective tool for fighting aging and promoting brain health.

The Best Way to Consume Mushrooms

Some people love to eat mushrooms and have no problem incorporating many kinds of them into their diets every day. Others dislike the taste or texture but want to take advantage of the many benefits of this amazing superfood. Thankfully, there are products available that contain high concentrations of many types of edible and medicinal mushrooms.