Shedding Light on the Many Health Benefits of Mushrooms

  • Load Up on Vitamin D: Vitamin D, also known as the “sunshine vitamin,” is an essential nutrient recognized for its role in bone health. All mushrooms have vitamin D. Further, mushrooms are the only source of vitamin D in the produce aisle, and the exception to the rule that plant-based diets don’t naturally contain vitamin D.

  • Conquer Cold and Flu Season: Mushrooms are a leading source of selenium within the produce aisle and they are one of the best dietary sources of ergothioneine, two antioxidants known for their roles in strengthening immunity.

  • Reach Weight Management Goals: Low in calories and fat-free, mushrooms can be an ideal substitute for meat, thanks to their hearty texture. Preliminary research suggests that swapping mushrooms for meat can be an effective method for reducing daily energy and fat intake while still feeling full and satiated after meals.

  • Reduce Sodium: Mushrooms are rich in umami (the 5th taste known for its savory, brothy, rich or meaty taste sensation), which counterbalances saltiness to allow for a salt reduction without compromising taste.

  • Help Your Heart: Mushrooms are cholesterol-free and a valuable source of potassium, a nutrient that helps control blood pressure; in fact, white button mushrooms (stir-fried with water) have more potassium than a banana, per serving.

  • Get Energized: Mushrooms are full of B vitamins, including riboflavin, niacin and pantothenic acid, which help to provide energy by breaking down proteins, fats and carbohydrates.

  • Defend Against Tumor Growth: Compounds in mushrooms suppress the effects of aromatase, an enzyme that helps the body make estrogen. Blocking aromatase is a way physicians reduce circulating estrogen levels, which is important in addressing hormone-dependent breast cancers in which tumors depend on estrogen to grow.