While mushrooms are considered vegetables, it might surprise you to realise that they are not part of the plant kingdom because they are unable to make their own food through a process called photosynthesis. Rather, they are types of fungi that have a “plantlike” form – with a stem and cap.
Mushrooms are considered very nutritious and are especially popular in vegetarian and vegan diets. As a result of its meat-like texture, this umbrella-shaped fruiting body is an excellent replacement for meat in recipes that traditionally utilise meat. Aside from being a rich, low-calorie source of fibre, protein, and antioxidants, studies have also indicated that they may mitigate the risk of developing severe health conditions like Alzheimer’s, heart disease, cancer, and diabetes.
As mentioned in a previous article, scientists are even researching the use of mushrooms as a possible cure for Covid-19! .
Due to its many wondrous properties, here are 8 reasons why you should include more mushrooms in your diet.
- Good Heart Health
The combination of vitamin B and elements like selenium, potassium, zinc, and other components like Pantothenic acid protect and help to maintain good heart health.
2. Regulation Energy Supply
Riboflavin or vitamin B 2, which is found in mushrooms, is vital for regulating the energy supply in the body as it helps convert carbohydrates into adenosine triphosphate (ATP).
3. Maintaining cholesterol, brain function
Niacin or Vitamin B3 is found in mushrooms. This is essential because every part of your body needs it to work and function properly. From maintaining cholesterol, brain function, healthy skin, and a healthy digestive system, it can also ease arthritis.
4. Forming red blood cells and converting food into energy
Pantothenic Acid or Vitamin B5, is vital for the formation of red blood cells. It also helps in the conversion of food into energy.
5. As an antioxidant
Mushrooms contain selenium, which is an antioxidant that protects body cells from damage. It can reduce heart disease and strengthen the immune system.
6. Reducing Blood Pressure
Mushrooms are rich in potassium which helps prevent heart disease by lowering blood pressure.
Potassium helps in lowering blood pressure because they reduce the negative impact created by Sodium in your body and lessens the tension in blood vessels which leads to lowering of blood pressure.
7. Optimal growth in children
Mushrooms are a particularly excellent source of zinc, and zinc is essential for the immune system of the human body, and it is essential for ensuring optimal growth in infants and children.
8. Weight Loss
Research also found that the combination of mushrooms with a healthy lifestyle and exercise leads to significant weight loss, which is very important for maintaining a healthy lifestyle.