There are many reasons more and more people are turning to mushrooms for their nutritional needs. Anyone conscious about their health will be familiar with the term “superfood.” And mushroom is considered a superfood. But what makes mushrooms one? Let’s find out.
What are Superfoods?
Essentially, a superfood is a food that provides a wide variety of nutrients.
A superfood can come from vegetables, fruit, or animal sources. In the case of superfoods, the vitamins, minerals, and active compounds, rather than calories or taste, make food stand out.
The term superfoods refers to any food rich in nutrients and high in vitamins, antioxidant compounds, minerals, or other substances that are thought to be beneficial to health. The main characteristic of these foods is that they are rich in nutrients that humans need.
Why is Mushroom a Superfood?
In a nutshell, mushrooms are a superfood because of their high vitamin B-6 content, high potassium content, and high niacin (vitamin B-3) content. Mushrooms also have a large amount of Vitamin D, amino acids, and polysaccharides.
Mushrooms May Improve Cell Health
Some of the most beneficial properties in mushrooms are polysaccharides. Polysaccharides are fibers that are believed to lengthen the telomeres, the DNA at the end of our chromosomes, which improves the health of our cells.
Mushrooms May Combat Cancer Cells
Additionally, there are several compounds in mushrooms that can offer protection against the development of cancer cells. Formononetin found in Shiitake mushrooms can inhibit the growth of cancer cells. Also, one of the polysaccharides found in some mushrooms is believed to target cancer cells by stopping them from thinking they’re being fed.
Mushrooms May Have Positive Effects on Blood Pressure, Blood Circulation, and Gut Health
There are six different types of polysaccharides from mushrooms, each with different functions. Some of these polysaccharides can even lower blood pressure and improve blood circulation.
Mushrooms, particularly maitake mushrooms, are also believed to help repair the gut lining. Furthermore, the high niacin content helps improve circulation and has anti-inflammatory properties. The amino acid content aids our metabolism and aids in the body’s ability to produce protein.
Mushrooms May Improve Memory and Cognitive Function
The high Vitamin B-6 content and high potassium content help with the memory and cognitive function of the brain. Potassium is essential for the healthy functioning of our nervous system.
Mushrooms May Have Anti-Aging Properties
There's also a high amount of Vitamin D content in mushrooms that also helps provide the body and skin with an anti-aging shield from the sun and also helps to treat osteoporosis and rickets in children.
Mushrooms Are A Healthier Choice
If you are looking to improve your health and the condition of your body, mushrooms, and other fungi are the way to go. This is especially true today when processed food is flooding the market.
Because mushrooms are found growing in several locations in Hawaii, they are readily available. In fact, mushrooms live in every part of the world. You can whip up a dish using mushrooms available in your area.
Mushrooms are very versatile and provide a good source of almost every essential vitamin and mineral that the body needs. They have a good amount of proteins, essential fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals.
Get Your Mushrooms!
Mushrooms provide a lot of essential vitamins, minerals, and nutrients, and are now considered to be superfoods. Mushrooms are a lot better for your health than your standard meat-based meal. So, if you’re looking for a healthier lunch, have mushrooms on a sandwich instead!
Add mushrooms to your diet now. Mālama Mushrooms offer a wide range of superfoods and mushrooms, from chocolate mushrooms to powders in Kona, Hawaii. Shop now!