In addition to their delicious flavour and unique texture, mushrooms have some real benefits!
Low in carbohydrates and calories, but rich in vitamins and minerals, mushrooms are definitely your health ally! Button mushrooms, chanterelles, morels, boletes or ceps… there’s something for everyone!
Don’t hesitate to taste the different varieties to enjoy all their benefits!
Did you know? Mushrooms are one of the few plants to contain vitamin D. In fact, they have the unique ability to manufacture vitamin D when exposed to UV light!
Reduces the risk of cancer
» A review of 17 cancer studies from 1966 to 2020 shows that eating just 18 grams of mushrooms (that’s about 1/8 cup or two medium mushrooms) a day can reduce your risk of cancer by up to 45%, » reports UCLA Health.
In fact, mushrooms are a powerful source of ergothioneine, an amino acid and antioxidant that prevents cell damage!
Lowers cholesterol
Mushrooms can play a role in promoting good cardiovascular health!
In fact, they are naturally free of cholesterol and saturated fats, but provide compounds such as fiber and antioxidants that help lower cholesterol levels and maintain healthy blood pressure.
What’s more, mushrooms are a good substitute for red meat while minimizing calories, fat and cholesterol!
Protects the brain
In an article published in Food Chemistry, American researchers have compared the quantities of antioxidants (glutathione and ergothioneine) in different mushroom species.
The result? They found that the content varied greatly from one mushroom to another. Among the mushrooms tested for these two antioxidants, porcini mush rooms were by far the most abundant!
Robert Beelman, professor at Penn State University (USA), explained that countries with more ergothioneine in their diet have fewer neurodegenerative diseases!
Strengthens the immune system
Mushrooms contain macronutrients that support a healthy immune system.
In fact, Cremini and Portobello mushrooms contain the highest quantities of selenium ! A compound that helps the body produce antioxidant enzymes to prevent cell damage.
Mushrooms also provide a good source of vitamin D, which promotes cell growth, boosts immune function and reduces inflammation.
Mushrooms also provide vitamin B6, which helps the body form red blood cells and proteins. So shiitake mushrooms are the best choice for vitamin B6.
The anti-inflammatory effect of mushrooms considerably improves the efficiency of the immune system.