Mushrooms are popular ingredients to dishes, especially in Asian cuisines, and it comes in different colors, sizes, and shapes. Still, you need to become aware that there are toxic mushrooms and nutritious ones. Mushrooms have been an essential ingredient as they add a unique flavor to any dish without sodium and fat. It is a fungus but landed in the category of vegetable for cooking purposes. There are indeed health benefits of mushroom, but people need to know that there are poisonous ones. So you need to make sure you only get them from a good grocery store.
The following are types of mushroom commonly used for cooking purposes:
- button or white mushroom
- shiitake
- maitake
- portobello
- enoki
- crimini
- oyster
- beech
As you search for quality mushrooms good for you, you must touch it and feel if it is firm and not moist and, most importantly, mold-free.
Nutritional Value of Mushroom
It is a great addition to your diet as it is fat-free, low in sodium, no cholesterol, and very low in calories. Adding it will be beneficial to your taste buds and also for your overall health. There are nutrients in mushrooms, vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
1. Mushroom for Antioxidant
An antioxidant is essential to attain a good quality of life. It is vital to prevent the accumulation of free radicals that can lead to chronic diseases such as cancer and heart diseases. The additional nutritional value of mushrooms helps in boosting the immune system. The antioxidant that comes from mushrooms is selenium.
2. Mushroom has Beta Glucan
The beta-glucan is a dietary fiber which is soluble that is known to help improve blood cholesterol level and improve heart health. If you are suffering from diabetes, primarily type 2, then champignons are good for you because it can help regulate the body’s blood sugar level. The types of mushrooms that hold the more number of beta-glucan are the oyster and shitake.
3. Mushroom has B Vitamins
Essential nutrients in mushrooms are B vitamins such as pantothenic acid, niacin, and riboflavin. The later is vital for the development of red blood cells in the body. Niacin is known to provide a beneficial effect on the skin and the digestive system, while the pantothenic acid can protect the central nervous system.
4. Mushroom has Copper
Many of the health benefits of mushrooms are its nutrient content, and one vital is the copper that helps make healthy red blood cells. Aside from that, the mineral copper can offer positive benefits for healthy bones and nerves. Most vegetables lose their nutrients while cooking. However, mushroom even right after cooking will provide you with one-third of your daily needs of copper.
5. Mushroom has Potassium
Although banana is famous as a potassium source, you need to know that a cup of Portobello mushroom has as much potassium as a banana. This nutritional value of mushrooms is vital for ultimate heart health.
6. Mushroom for Pregnant Women
Pregnant women can take advantage of mushroom’s health benefits as is it’s a good source of folic acid that promotes fetal development. Pregnant women need to become aware of the foods they can eat and not consume during pregnancy.
Tips for Buying Mushroom
Once you reach your reliable market place, you need to look for a mushroom that is firm, dry, and without bruises. It is good not to buy mushrooms that look withered and slimy. Proper storage of mushrooms can prolong its shelf life. You can store it inside the refrigerator and do not wash or cut them until it was time for you to cook the mushroom.
