Mushrooms make healthy meal magic (2024)

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Mushrooms make healthy meal magic (1)

Kjersten Nett, RDN, LD

Nutrition

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Mushrooms make healthy meal magic (5)

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Mushrooms make healthy meal magic (6)

Mushrooms can be found in so many dishes, from omelets to stir-fries, that they're often overlooked. But mushrooms not only are versatile, they also provide a variety of health benefits ranging from brain health to cancer prevention. They're naturally low in sodium and fat, two things that can affect heart health by raising blood pressure.

There are more health-related reasons for eating these almost-magical fungi, including:

  • Cancer prevention
    Researchers have found that incorporating any variety of mushrooms into your daily diet will lower your risk of cancer by as much as 45%. How many mushrooms do you need to eat? The recommended amount is as few as two medium per day.
  • Brain health
    Mushrooms also are a natural source of fiber, which promotes gut health by feeding the "good" bacteria in the intestines. These bacteria have been found to make neurotransmitters or chemicals that send messages between nerves. These neurotransmitters promote mood stability, concentration, brain health and mental well-being. One mushroom that's been getting a lot of attention when it comes to brain health is lion's mane, identified by its long, white, fluffy top. Early research shows the lion's mane's potential to protect against neurological damage and promote the growth of nerve tissue, which is important for those with Alzheimer's disease, multiple sclerosis and Parkinson's disease.
  • Vitamin D increase
    Mushrooms exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light, whether from sunlight or a UV lamp, contain vitamin D, a vital nutrient that can be hard to come by in nature. Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium, strengthening bones and teeth. Appropriate vitamin D levels also are linked to preventing dementia, Type 2 diabetes and risk of premature death.
  • Micronutrients source
    These tiny amounts of nutrients support a healthy immune system. Mushrooms are one of the best sources of selenium, which helps your body make antioxidants that can reduce cell damage.
  • B vitamins source
    Mushrooms are a good source of vitamins B2, B3, B5 and B9, also known as folate. B vitamins are essential for cell growth and formation. This means that your hair, skin and nails could become more healthy, as well as your brain and heart.
  • Calcium and potassium increase
    A recent study by Mayo Clinic showed that adding more calcium and potassium to your diet may prevent kidney stones from forming and recurring.

How to use mushrooms in meals

The mushroom you may be most familiar with is the common button mushroom. But there are thousands of mushroom varieties in various shapes, sizes and colors. Mushrooms grow in the wild, but safe varieties may be hard to identify, so it's best to stick to the farm-grown varieties found at your supermarket.

Taste and texture vary from one type of mushroom to the next. Button or cremini mushrooms are milder in flavor and have a softer texture than shiitake mushrooms, which are chewier and have an earthier flavor. While canned and fresh mushrooms have health benefits, fresh mushrooms have a different texture.

One distinctive characteristic of mushrooms is they provide umami to dishes. Umami often is considered the fifth basic taste, along with sweet, sour, salty and bitter. This brothy, savory taste makes it a good meat alternative. Try replacing one-quarter to one-half of the meat in a recipe with chopped mushrooms. Add mushrooms to dishes across a world of cuisines, including soups, salads, casseroles and pastas.

Before using them raw or prepping to cook, clean mushrooms under gently running water to rinse away any dirt, or brush with a damp paper towel.

If you need a little inspiration as you explore the health benefits and versatility of mushrooms, give these recipes from Mayo Clinic a try.

Kjersten Nett is a dietitian in Nutrition in Albert Lea and Austin, Minnesota.

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Mushrooms make healthy meal magic (2024)

FAQs

Are mushrooms a healthy meal? ›

Mushrooms are a low-calorie food and pack a nutritional punch. Loaded with many health-boosting vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, they've long been recognized as an important part of any diet. Mushrooms exposed to ultraviolet light are a good source of vitamin D, an important component for bone and immune health.

Are mushrooms a miracle food? ›

Mushrooms are one of the best sources of selenium, which helps your body make antioxidants that can reduce cell damage. Mushrooms are a good source of vitamins B2, B3, B5 and B9, also known as folate. B vitamins are essential for cell growth and formation.

What's the healthiest way to eat mushrooms? ›

The researchers concluded that the best way to cook mushrooms while still preserving their nutritional properties is to grill or microwave them, as the fried and boiled mushrooms showed significantly less antioxidant activity.

Does cooking mushrooms make them healthier? ›

"When mushrooms were cooked by microwave or grill, the content of polyphenol and antioxidant activity increased significantly, and there are no significant losses in nutritional value of the cooked mushrooms" says Roncero.

Is it OK to eat mushroom everyday? ›

Mushrooms are classed as a superfood as they are high in nutrients and have many health benefits. You could eat mushrooms every day if you wish, although only as part of a balanced diet with other foods. Although mushrooms come in all shapes and sizes, the nutrients they provide per 96g serving are very similar.

What does eating mushrooms do to your body? ›

Mushrooms are a reliable source of: B vitamins, which help to provide energy from foods, and form red blood cells. Vitamin D, which helps maintain and build strong bones. Antioxidants, which help protect cells from damage and inflammation that might lead to chronic diseases.

Which mushroom is superfood? ›

Research suggests that varieties like chaga, lion's mane, reishi, and cordyceps may offer health benefits beyond basic nutrition. For example, they may help you to relax, enhance memory, or even help you focus.

Are mushrooms a natural laxative? ›

High-fiber foods that help with constipation include: Veggies, like squashes, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, okra, asparagus, mushrooms, carrots, kale and spinach.

Who should not take lion's mane? ›

People with bleeding conditions should also take heed and discuss with their doctor before consuming lion's mane. Skin irritations: According to a 2020 study, lion's mane mushrooms may cause a skin rash in those who consume them. Lowers blood sugar: Lion's mane mushrooms can lower your blood sugar.

Which type of mushroom is healthiest? ›

Some of the mushrooms considered best for human health include chaga, lion's mane, reishi, turkey tail, shiitake, cordyceps and maitake. Often considered vegetables, mushrooms are neither plants nor animals. They belong to a unique kingdom of fungi.

Is spinach or mushrooms healthier? ›

Spinach is rich in vitamins A and K, iron, and fiber. Mushrooms are a good source of B-vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. The healthiness depends on your specific nutritional needs, so incorporating both into your diet can provide a well-rounded set of nutrients.

Is mushroom a detox food? ›

Mushrooms have detoxifying properties that support liver function and help eliminate toxins from your body. This plan can also improve your skin clarity and boost your energy levels, making you feel rejuvenated. Embrace a natural, effective way to detox with the power of mushrooms.

Are mushrooms anti-inflammatory? ›

Mushrooms are very low in calories and rich in selenium, copper, and all of the B vitamins. They also contain phenols and other antioxidants that provide anti-inflammatory protection ( 40 , 41 , 42 , 43 ).

Are mushrooms healthier than meat? ›

Without a doubt, mushrooms are a good meat substitute although they are not packed with protein. However these little miracles surpass meat in many characteristics: they are rich sources of vitamins and minerals for instance selenium, zinc, vitamin B1, B2, B5, B6 and B12.

How long do mushrooms last in the fridge? ›

Whole mushrooms: Most whole mushrooms bought from the grocery store can last in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. It is advisable to consume them within seven to ten days of purchase.

Are mushrooms good or bad for weight loss? ›

As an excellent source of both fiber and protein, mushrooms are particularly useful for plant-based diets. Mushrooms also help to burn fat in the body because their nutrients help to regulate glucose levels in the blood. Their excellent nutritional value will keep you energized and allow you to workout for longer.

Can I eat mushroom in dinner for weight loss? ›

Fiber-Rich Food: Mushrooms are high in fiber content that will not only help in reducing weight but will keep the stomach satiated for a longer duration. Low Calories and Fat: Mushrooms are low in calories and that also makes it one of the ideal foods to include in a weight loss diet.

Is mushroom protein or carb? ›

Mushrooms contain a high amount of protein content with an average value of 23.80 g/100 g dry weight (DW). Mushroom proteins have lately gained acceptance in the food industry in view of their high nutritional value and complete essential amino acids [5–7].

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