The amazing health benefits of mushrooms

Mushrooms have long been considered a valuable ingredient in cuisine and medicine. With rich nutritional content and bioactive compounds, mushrooms not only contribute to enriching the taste but also bring many health benefits.

Below are the main uses of mushrooms for human health:

Rich source of nutrients

Mushrooms are a valuable source of vegetable protein, especially for vegetarians. The protein content in mushrooms can account for 20-30% of dry weight, equivalent to some types of meat.

Mushrooms contain all the essential amino acids that the body cannot synthesize, such as lysine, leucine, and methionine. In addition, mushrooms also provide important carbohydrates and fiber, helping to support digestion and maintain stable blood sugar.Good source of fat

The fat in mushrooms is mainly unsaturated fatty acids, accounting for 54-76% of the total fat content. This type of fat is good for heart health, helping to reduce bad cholesterol (LDL) and increase good cholesterol (HDL), reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Essential vitamins and minerals

Mushrooms contain many important vitamins, including vitamin B1 (thiamine), B2 (riboflavin), B3 (niacin), B5 (pantothenic acid), and vitamin D. In particular, mushrooms are one of the few natural food sources that provide vitamin D, which helps maintain bone health and the immune system.

Minerals such as potassium, phosphorus, calcium, and iron in mushrooms also play an important role in regulating blood pressure, improving muscle function and the nervous system.

Strengthen the immune system

Many studies have shown that polysaccharides in mushrooms, especially beta-glucan, have the ability to stimulate the immune system. These substances help activate immune cells such as macrophages, T cells, and natural killer cells, thereby helping the body fight against the invasion of bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens. Ganoderma and shiitake mushrooms are two types of mushrooms famous for their immune-boosting abilities.Cancer Prevention

Mushrooms contain many compounds that have anti-cancer properties. For example, lentinan - a polysaccharide in shiitake mushrooms - has been shown to inhibit the growth of cancer cells.

In addition, other compounds in mushrooms such as triterpenoids and ergosterol have the ability to prevent tumor growth and support the body in eliminating cancer cells.

Protect cardiovascular health

Mushrooms reduce cholesterol and triglyceride levels in the blood, thereby helping to protect the cardiovascular system. They also contain antioxidants such as ergothioneine and selenium, which help prevent the oxidation of LDL cholesterol, a major cause of atherosclerosis and heart disease.

Detoxify and protect the liver

Mushrooms such as reishi, king oyster, and lion's mane are known for their ability to detoxify and protect liver cells. They help the liver remove harmful substances and support liver function, thereby reducing the risk of liver diseases such as hepatitis, fatty liver, and cirrhosis.Aids digestion and prevents stomach ulcers

Mushrooms contain soluble and insoluble fibers, which help maintain healthy intestinal microflora, aid digestion and prevent constipation. Lion's mane mushrooms have the ability to promote the production of mucus that protects the stomach lining, thereby helping to prevent stomach ulcers.

Anti-aging and longevity

The antioxidants in mushrooms help reduce the formation of free radicals, slowing down the aging process. Ganoderma lucidum is especially famous for its ability to prolong life, helping the body fight stress and maintain overall health.

Improve mood and reduce stress

Mushrooms contain ergothioneine and other compounds that protect brain cells from oxidative stress, improve brain function and help reduce stress. Some mushrooms also help to mildly calm the mind, improve sleep and reduce psychological stress.

Mushrooms are a great food with many diverse health benefits. Adding mushrooms to your daily diet not only improves your taste but also brings many health benefits, from strengthening the immune system, protecting the heart to supporting digestion and anti-aging. However, it is necessary to choose and use mushrooms properly to maximize the benefits they bring.