Mushrooms have been used for centuries for both their medicinal purposes and their unique earthy taste in cooking. They have been a part of a very long tradition of medicine within the Asian community, with over 200 types of species often being used. However, their use dates back as far as Ancient Egypt where it is said Pharaohs loved the taste so much they declared them a 'royal food' and prevented anyone else outside of their circle to touch them! If only they knew the health benefits which went along with them too, they may not have shared at all! Mushrooms are often mistaken for a vegetable when they are actually a beneficial fungus packed with minerals, vitamins, antioxidants, amino acids and antibiotics. No one really knows how many types of mushroom are out there. There are around 10,000 known types in just North America alone, but it is strongly agreed that there are much more out there to find. They vary from species to species, but they are all generally low in calories, fat, sodium, sugar and carbohydrates, whilst providing high levels of nutrients. The most common mushrooms to come across are portobello, reishi, white button, oyster and shiitake. The high nutrition content is beneficial to us in both health and beauty, here are just a few of the surprising benefits: Immunity Boosting & Anti-Inflammatory Mushrooms need strong antibacterial and anti-fungal compounds just to survive in their own natural environment, so these beneficial compounds can be isolated to benefit us. They work to protect our bodies from inflammation and alkalize our bodies, which is associated with an improved immune system. They also contain a powerful antioxidant called ergothioneine, which helps lower inflammation throughout the body. One of the key nutrients they contain is selenium, which improves our immunity power and triggers the production of T-cells, which defend the body against infections and other harmful bodies. You will also find Beta-glucans in the cell walls of the fungi, which is a sugar that also works to boost your immune system. High in Vitamin D Vitamin D is hard to come by in foods, as it is best obtained from exposure to the sun. Vitamin D deficiency can be a serious problem for many people and is often linked to lower moods throughout the colder, darker months. Mushrooms provide the necessary vitamin when they are exposed to UV light, whether grown in inside or out, this increases their concentration of vitamin D. This vitamin is rarely found in other foods, so make the most of the mushrooms, especially during the winter. Heart Health There are several types of mushrooms that can help lower 'bad' cholesterol, they are shiitake, white button, crimini and portabella to name a few. They keep arteries from hardening, which can lead to a heightened risk of heart disease. The high content of fibre, vitamin C and potassium in mushrooms also promote cardiovascular health and alleviate the risk of having a stroke. As well as lowering the 'bad' cholesterol, mushrooms have sterol compounds that interfere with the production of cholesterol in the liver, that helps raise 'good' cholesterol. Mushrooms are a key food ingredient to maintaining healthy blood pressure, good cholesterol and improve the blood circulation in our bodies. Helps Manage Weight Mushrooms are low in calories and dense in beneficial nutrients making them ideal to regularly consume when you are trying to lose weight. They contain two different dietary fibres, beta-glucans and chitin. These both act as a bulking agent in the digestive system that makes you feel fuller for longer and will keep your cravings and hunger at bay for longer. Plus, they can also be a great substitute if you are trying to cut out meat from your diet due to their rich, fleshy taste! Mushrooms To Look Out For & Why? Reishi - Used for thousands of years to fight chronic diseases, fight inflammation, heart disease, balance hormones and mood disorders. Reishi mushrooms are one of the best natural superfoods in existence, they can also help the body deal with stress and anxiety. Discover the abundance of antioxidants, beta-glucans and vitamins which come with Hifas Da Terra Superfood Reishi Antiox. Shiitake - The nutritional benefits of shiitake mushrooms include antiviral, antibacterial and antifungal effects, as well as helping control blood sugar levels and reducing inflammation. Cordyceps - Known for their antiageing properties, they help to increase stamina and endurance due to their ability to help the body produce ATP, the primary fuel our bodies run on. They're quite hard to find fresh, so you can get them in powder form such as Hifas de Terra Superfood Cordyceps Vital. Oyster - This pale, long rooted mushroom has the ability to naturally reduce joint pain and muscle aches due to its anti-inflammatory effects. They are also beneficial to heart health as they strengthen blood vessel walls and lower the risk for heart attack or a stroke. White Button Mushrooms - These are the normal button mushrooms which you will find in every food store. They may be easy to overlook but they are super dense with nutrients including having a high percentage of copper, potassium, selenium, zinc and phosphorus. For all the benefits of mushrooms, as a supplement, shop here for: Mushrooms
