Mushrooms, Mushrooms everywhere! Mushrooms have been used as food and medicine for thousands of years. Many people like to eat different types of mushrooms, both in raw and cooked forms. Most of them are grown in Chester, Pennsylvania, in the city of Kenneth Square and its surrounding area, which is also known as “The Mushroom Capital of the World”. With many health benefits and different ways of preparing them, it is easy to see why so many chefs like to include them in their tasty dishes.
Mushrooms contain from 80 to 90 percent water, contain little sodium, fat and calories, are extremely nutritious, and are an excellent supplement for people who are conscious of weight. In addition, they do not contain gluten, fat or cholesterol. They are filled with potassium, which helps to reduce blood pressure and the frequency of stroke. In fact, one average portabella fungus contains more potassium than a regular banana. They are also full of vitamin B (great for the nervous and digestive systems), iron (good for anemia and red blood cells), copper (helps make red blood cells) and selenium (good for prostate function and helps reduce prostate cancer).
Mushrooms are the only grown food that contains natural vitamin D, which helps strengthen bones. Combined with calcium, which is also found in mushrooms, they can help with joint pain and osteoporosis. They also contain beta-glucans that help stimulate the immune system and increase resistance to allergies and are found in many Shiitake and Oyster mushrooms. Mushrooms are also known to contain Ergothioneine, a powerful antioxidant that strengthens the immune system. Ergothioneine is an amino acid containing sulfur, which many people do not have their diet. Diabetics have shown an improvement in the use of various types of fungi due to the natural insulin and the enzymes they contain. Many types of fungi also help diabetics from infections to limbs, as they are a natural antibiotic.
The following is a brief overview of some of the most common mushrooms:
- White buttons: the most common mushrooms in the United States, studies show that they help with breast and prostate cancer, consuming approximately 3.5 ounces per day. Good for weight loss.
- Crimini (Portabella predecessor): These brown mushrooms are similar in size to white buttons, are harder and have a denser taste. They also help with breast and prostate cancer. Great for losing weight.
- Portabella: These large, brown mushrooms with an umbrella shape (adult version of Crimini mushrooms) have a more meaty taste. Great for grilling and stuffing with artichoke, spinach, crabmeat and an “Italian” recipe for minced meat, tomato sauce, onion, pepper and herbs. Also helps with weight loss.
- Shiitake: Many Asian cultures have been used to treat colds and flu. Studies show that extracts of this fungus help fight infections, strengthen the immune system, and help fight tumor growth and breast cancer. Eat 4-5 ounces per day. An excellent source of vitamin D.
- Reishi: Looks like a wooden brown and white flower: well suited to fight bacterial and viral infections, low cholesterol and blood pressure.
- Maitake: Helps cleanse the body and stimulates the immune system.
- Oyster: Current research shows that they help protect against HIV. High level of antioxidants
- Porcini: Meaty mushroom, similar to the mushroom portbella, has anti-inflammatory properties.
Mushrooms are a versatile food that can be used in many soups, salads, sandwiches, appetizers, stews, nutraceuticals, additives, and yes, even added to sports drinks! Buy only mushrooms from reputable suppliers, as many mushrooms grow in the wild, can be toxic and contain toxic heavy metals.
Mushrooms are a delicious addition to people's diets and have many amazing health benefits. Studies have shown that they can help lower cholesterol, protect diabetics from infections, help prevent breast and prostate cancer, help with weight loss, improve bone health, stimulate the immune system, lower blood pressure, increase iron absorption and become excellent suppliers of potassium. , calcium, riboflavin, phosphorus, vitamin D and selenium. Try using them in a variety of recipes today!
