Last updated on October 17th, 2023 at 01:00 pm
Keep you forever young
Have you ever seen an apple turn brown when left exposed to air? That occurs due to oxidation, and the same can happen to our bodies. Our bodies produce molecules known as free radicals; while those molecules are necessary for vital body functions, they can harm our health when produced in excess. Thankfully, another group of molecules, called antioxidants, are always ready to tackle the excess of free radicals and prevent oxidation – also known as aging.
Mushrooms are packed with antioxidants; more specifically, they contain high amounts of ergothioneine and glutathione. Combined, those two antioxidants work hard to prevent oxidation and battle signs of aging.
They can uplift your mood
Eating more mushrooms can actually lift your mood (and we are not talking about mind-altering magic mushrooms). Some of the most traditional types of culinary mushrooms, like Lion’s Mane, can help you boost your mood. Research shows that people who include mushrooms in their diets lower their risk of developing depression and anxiety. That is likely also due to the antioxidant ergothioneine, which prevents oxidative stress and can reduce symptoms of mental conditions.
Strengthen your immune system
Medicinal mushrooms have been used as part of traditional Chinese medicine for centuries. Today, modern scientific research supports and validates those ancient practices. Mushroom supplements to regulate the immune system are becoming widely popular. You can obtain the same effect by improving your mushroom consumption. Are you catching colds non-stop? Include reishi or shiitake mushrooms in your meals and watch your immune system regain strength.
Help you say goodbye to inflammation
If you suffer from an inflammatory condition or regular inflammation has become part of your life, then mushrooms are perfect for you. Some types of mushrooms have been found to decrease inflammation in the human body. Further down this article, we’ll dive deeper into the most powerful mushrooms to add to your diet, including the ones that better battle inflammation.
Tons of nutrients
These tiny, delicious fungi are packed with essential nutrients that provide many health benefits. Mushrooms are rich in dietary fiber, protein, potassium, selenium, zinc, calcium, antioxidants, and vitamins B and D. As a plus, this food is low-calorie, low-sodium, and fat and cholesterol-free.
Are you worried about your body not absorbing nutrients and want to improve your nutrient consumption naturally? Adding mushrooms to some of your meals can take your diet to a whole new level.
Boost brain health
The essential nutrients in mushrooms may help prevent mild cognitive impairment (MCI). A study showed that adults over 60 who eat at least 2 cups of mushrooms per week lower their risk of developing MCI. Other research suggests that fungi rich in antioxidants and polyphenols help prevent neurodegenerative conditions such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s.
Improve blood sugar levels and heart health
Some mushrooms taste just like meat but with the advantage of being good for your heart health. Mushrooms help prevent white blood cells from building up in your blood vessels and reduce inflammation in the arterial cells. Eating more mushrooms can reduce high blood pressure and help you maintain a healthy heart.
Consuming more mushrooms can also help improve your blood sugar levels; that is excellent news if you have diabetes, insulin resistance, or a family history of these conditions. If you take Mounjaro for insulin resistance and weight loss, including more mushrooms on your meal plan can boost the medication’s effects.