Mushrooms are a type of fungus that is used in many dishes from all over the world. Although they are frequently confused with vegetables, mushrooms are a large fungus which has their unique characteristics. There are more than 10,000 known species of mushrooms, many of which are edible and are consumed for their numerous health benefits.

Mushrooms contain a lot of vitamins and minerals which can help the body to recover from conditions like anemia and infectious diseases. Studies shown that people who consume mushroom on a regular basis have a stronger immune system, are healthier and are less prone to develop serious heart conditions or even cancer.

But for you to get the full benefits of eating mushrooms, you need to know how long do mushrooms last. Fresh mushrooms have a higher concentration than those who have been sitting in the fridge for a week. So make sure that you buy them fresh and eat them right away.

Now, let’s explore the top 6 health benefits that mushrooms can bring us.

1. Weight control

Recent studies have shown that Dietary fiber plays a big role in weight management. By essentially feeding the bacteria which is located in the intestines, dietary fiber prevents digestive inflammations that can lead to weight gain and obesity if they’re left untreated.

But in addition to reducing inflammation, dietary fiber is also responsible for a loss of appetite which can greatly help people who struggle to manage their cravings.There are two types of dietary fibers that are present in any mushroom: beta-glucans and chitin. Each of these components will help you feel full for longer periods of time, therefore reducing the number of calories you eat while making your digestion much easier.

2. Immunity

A strong immune system is essential to help your body fight off many types of diseases. Mushrooms contain a variety of polysaccharides molecules that are essential to keep our body’s defense system working. Mushrooms also have a high content of Selenium, which is a mineral that helps to build your immune system by stimulating the production of Cytotoxic T cells. These cells, along with the beta-glucans which are also found on mushrooms, allow the immune system to fight against a wide variety of diseases.

One recent medical study done on mice found that mushrooms strengthened their immune system and allowed their immune system to fight off a salmonella infection, while other studies show that mushrooms can help the body to fight cancer cells and even prevent the formation of tumors.

3. Cancer

Mushrooms have a high antioxidant capacity that matches that of highly nutritious vegetables. But unlike carrots or tomatoes, Mushrooms also contain a high level of Selenium which is a mineral that is rarely found in fruits or vegetables. This mineral can help cancer patients to get rid of toxins that are produced by the damaged cells in the body, while at the same time slowing down tumor growth.

Mushrooms also contain plenty of vitamin D, which plays a big part in cell and tissue regeneration. Vitamin D is vital for cancer patients and it helps them to slow down the growth of cancer cells, repair damaged cells, and prevent healthy ones from becoming cancerous.

4. Diabetes

Diabetes affects the body by destroying insulin production, which is the hormone responsible for regulating our levels of blood sugar. This forces diabetics be constantly on alert and monitor their sugar blood levels frequently. However, studies have shown that people who consume food which is high in fiber have lower levels of sugar in their blood.

Mushrooms have a high content of fiber which helps diabetics to reduce the chances of having complications related to their glucose levels. While eating Mushrooms won’t cure the effects of Diabetes, it’s high-fiber content can help patients to improve their glucose and insulin levels, therefore allowing them to live a normal life by keeping their blood sugar levels within a safe range.

5. Cholesterol

But having plenty of vitamins and fiber isn’t the only benefit of mushroom. In fact, they also carry a lot of lean protein with them which doesn’t have the unhealthy fats found in animal protein.This makes Mushrooms a healthier source of protein and especially advisable for those who are struggling with high cholesterol levels. Mushrooms high-fiber content also helps to lower cholesterol levels, therefore contributing to prevent serious cardiovascular diseases before they develop.

6. Bone Health

Calcium is a mineral which is essential for our bone health. People of all ages need to take a good amount of calcium in their diet, but this mineral is even more important for younger and older people. Calcium helps children to grow strong and healthy, while also allowing old people to prevent bone degradation and developing conditions like osteoporosis.

Mushrooms contain high levels of calcium which helps to regenerate and strengthen the bones, while also reducing joint pain and other conditions associated with weak bones. Which is why Mushrooms can also help people to recover from a fractured bone quicker. While also guarantying that the bone will be healed properly without developing significant complications.