Mushrooms For Health: 7 Surprising Health Benefits You Didn’t Know

Eating a healthy and balanced diet is one of the pillars of fitness and good health. From carbohydrates to proteins, from vitamins to fats, it is necessary to include every nutrient in the diet. We can choose from fresh produce, whole grains, cereals, healthy fats, and more to cook our meals every day. One ingredient that has proved its mettle in terms of its health quotient is the mushroom. Part of the fungi family, mushrooms have been a part of our diet since time immemorial but we are only now realizing their benefits. Mushrooms can improve our health in many ways, from boosting immunity to controlling blood pressure.

Here are 7 surprising health benefits of mushrooms that you didn’t know:

1. Excellent Source of Vitamin D

Vitamin D deficiency is a problem that many people are suffering from all over the world. Despite the availability of sunlight, Indians regularly take vitamin D supplements and injections. Did you know that mushrooms are a great natural source of Vitamin D? Yes, this humble ingredient is exposed to UV rays which it absorbs and converts into Vitamin D, thus helping to fulfill our daily intake,

2. Regulates blood pressure

High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a condition that many people suffer silently. This can be controlled and managed with the right kind of low sodium diet. Mushrooms are one such ingredient that can help control blood pressure as they are low in sodium and also contain potassium. It helps in keeping the blood pressure level low.

(Also Read: If You Love Mushrooms, Don’t Miss These Simple Snack Recipes,

3. Facilitates weight loss

If you’re looking for a powerful ingredient to include in your weight loss diet, look no further than mushrooms. This miracle fungus is low in calories and has a 90% water content, making it excellent for weight loss. Plus, studies show that they contain a soluble fiber called pectin that keeps you fuller for longer.

4. For good gut health and immunity

Mushrooms contain some amazing nutrients that support good gut health and are therefore healthy immune system too, For example, selenium is a nutrient found in mushrooms that helps the body make antioxidants. Mushrooms also act as a good prebiotic that promotes the growth of good bacteria in the gut.

5. For better brain health and vision

Beta-carotene or Vitamin A is one of the other nutrients found in this food. It prevents loss of vision and also promotes healthy skin. Vitamin B2 is also another important nutrient that improves eye health and is present in significant amounts in mushrooms. Studies have also found that consuming mushrooms can prevent neuro-generative disorders such as dementia.

(Also Read: Quick and Easy Mushroom Sauce: How to Make and Use It,

_{Mushrooms can significantly improve vision and bone health. Photo: iStock}

6. Improve cholesterol

Believe it or not, mushrooms can be excellent for heart health and can even help lower cholesterol. it’s because they’re rich lean protein and fibers that help keep cholesterol levels under control. Shiitake mushrooms in particular are excellent for this.

7. For strong bones

Do you know that mushrooms are rich in calcium. We all know that calcium helps in making bones strong and reduces the chances of developing problems like arthritis, joint pain, inflammation and bone degeneration.

So, eat your way to good health and stock up on lots of mushrooms to stay healthy!

Disclaimer: This content provides general information only including advice. It is in no way a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult an expert or your own physician for more details. NDTV does not take responsibility for this information.