Mushrooms are nutritious, low in calories and fat, and a good source of several important vitamins and minerals. They're also a source of antioxidants and may help boost your immune system.Here are some of the potential health benefits of including mushrooms in your diet:
1. Nutritious and low in calories.
Mushrooms are a good source of several important nutrients, including selenium, potassium, copper, and vitamin D. They're also low in calories, with only 22 calories in a cup of cooked mushrooms.
2. A source of antioxidants.
Mushrooms are a source of antioxidants, including selenium and ergothioneine. Antioxidants help protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals.
3. May help boost your immune system.
Mushrooms contain compounds that may help boost your immune system. For example, beta-glucans are a type of fiber found in mushrooms that's been shown to stimulate the immune system.
4. May help protect against cancer.
Mushrooms contain compounds that may help protect against cancer. For example, mushrooms are a good source of antioxidants, including selenium and ergothioneine. Antioxidants help protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals, which can lead to cancer.
5. May help lower cholesterol.
Mushrooms may help lower cholesterol. A 2013 study found that mushrooms can reduce cholesterol levels in people with high cholesterol.
6. May help improve mental health.
Mushrooms may help improve mental health. A 2015 study found that consuming mushrooms may help improve cognitive function and reduce the risk of cognitive decline.
7. May help improve physical health.
Mushrooms may help improve physical health. A 2016 study found that mushrooms may help improve exercise performance and reduce the risk of exercise-induced injuries.
8. May have anti-inflammatory benefits.
Mushrooms may have anti-inflammatory benefits. A 2016 study found that mushrooms may help reduce inflammation in the body.
9. May help improve gut health.
Mushrooms may help improve gut health. A 2017 study found that mushrooms may help reduce the risk of gut infections.
10. May help improve skin health.
Mushrooms may help improve skin health. A 2017 study found that mushrooms may help protect the skin from damage caused by ultraviolet (UV) radiation.
Including mushrooms in your diet has many potential health benefits. If you're looking to add mushrooms to your diet, talk to your healthcare provider to see if it's right for you.