We’re all pretty divided when it comes to mushrooms. Some of us like their chewy, almost rubbery goodness, while some find the sensation just plain weird. Chewy and weird sensations aside, there’s no denying the health benefits of including these friendly fungi in our diet as these pack nutritious goodness like that of our favorite greens. So whether you’re looking to finally try mushrooms or still need some convincing, here are ten must-try friendly fungi, or as we’d like to call them, ‘Super Shrooms’ your body will thank you for:
Fight Tumors with Shiitake
If you love Japanese food, you’ve probably had more than a bite or two of Shiitake mushrooms. These are rich in vitamin D and the natural anti-tumor compound lentinan. In a study conducted in 2011, 52 healthy adults aged 21 to 41 were given four weeks’ supply of this mushroom to be eaten in 4-ounce daily servings. Blood samples taken before and after the study reflected improved gamma delta T-cells and reduced inflammatory proteins.
Control Blood Sugar with Maitake
These mushrooms pack anti-cancer, antiviral and immune system-enhancing properties, helping control high blood pressure and blood sugar levels. A study also found that extracts from Maitake mushrooms are highly beneficial for those with insulin resistance and diabetes. Half a cup of Maitake mushrooms a day also works wonders in sweeping our body’s systems boosting the release of immune system cells and fight the growth of abnormal cells, forcing them into self-destruction before they can mutate into malignant cells that cause life-threatening ailments.
Oyster Against HIV and Cancer
These fungi are popular around the world for their abundance. As oyster mushrooms are rich in protein and vitamin B, are cholesterol free and pack high levels of cholesterol-lowering molecule lovastatin, these mushrooms are indeed diet staples. In 2004, HIV patients participating in a study on oysters showed that the mushrooms had some anti-retrovirial-induced hyperlipidemia. Oyster mushrooms also make great tea using wood grown, freeze dried pieces. The International Journal of Oncology reported through researchers Jedinaki and Silva in 2008 that alcohol extracts of oyster mushrooms contained two molecular mechanisms that prevent the growth of breast and colon cancer cells, providing therapeutic relief to those diagnosed without affecting their normal cells.
Prevent Inflammation with Porcini
Finding an anti-inflammatory medicine that works best for is a lot of work, but a diet that regularly includes Porcini mushrooms may just end your search for relief. Its meaty goodness reminds many of the Portabello, and it does much more than keeping you satiated. Porcini contains the compound ergosterol known for cytotoxicity, or the process of attacking harmful cells. Researchers also found that inflammation greatly hampers reaching the golden years, but relief from it shows vast physical and mental benefits that help you reach 100 years and beyond. Live long, healthy and on to 100 with inflammation-fighting Porcini.
Live Blissfully with Black Truffle
Italian cuisine lovers are no strangers to Black Truffle and the pleasant rush of feeling good its’ unique flavor gives. There’s actually a scientific reason for that pleasant rush, as these mushrooms have been found to contain the “bliss molecule”, similar to THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) in marijuana. It’s the chemical responsible for the herb’s mood-enhancing and psychological effects. Researchers at the University of Rome found that Black Truffles produce the compound anandamide that stimulates the release of bodily chemicals that enhance our mood, change our appetite, affect our memory and reduce our feelings of depression and pain in our brains. It’s basically the same with marijuana, without the high. No more looking for other pick-me-uppers, Black Truffles will get you feeling good in no time!
Bid Prostate and Breast Cancer Goodbye with White Button
From the times of early hunter-gatherers all way up to the present age, button mushrooms have been the most commonly eaten fungi. Even in the old days, early civilizations knew that mushrooms had nutritional and life-saving powers. Ancient Egyptians believed mushrooms could help them become immortal, so naturally, only Pharaohs ate them for a long and bountiful reign. Studies today show that button mushrooms pack prevention properties against breast and prostate cancer not just in humans, but also in animals.
Blast Asthma and Tumors Away with Shimeji
Popular in Japan much like Shiitake, these mushrooms help fight asthma with its high levels of beta-glucans that suppress allergic reactions. Beta-glucans are also known to boost our immune system’s natural ability to heal itself. The National Cancer Institute of Japan reports that beta-glucans also successfully destroy and prevent tumors from growing.
Boost Metabolism with Chanterelle
These mushrooms have one of the highest natural levels of essential B vitamins, specifically B1, B2, B3, B4 and B5. These are vital in converting food into energy and keep the nervous system healthy. Chanterelle mushrooms’ high fiber content also keep our bowel movements regular and guts healthy. This mini-trumpet mushrooms pack anti-microbial, fungal and bacterial properties, as well as high vitamins C, D and potassium levels.
Play Up Antioxidants with Chaga
Chaga has long been popular in the East as tea, and now the West is quickly following suit in reaping its health benefits. A study tested cells pre-treated with a Chaga mushroom extract and then with H202 to induce oxidative stress. The cells pre-treated with Chaga showed less damage than those without the extract. This mushroom is also rich in melanin, a natural black pigment with high antioxidant levels from its polyphenols. Chaga mushrooms have the highest ORAC score, or the measure of antioxidant capacity of any super food, making it a top diet staple. Further research has shown that Chaga helps manage cholesterol, immune health, cardiovascular health, diabetes and provides DNA damage protection.
Do It All with Reishi
Known in Chinese as Lingzhi, this mushroom has long been revered in Asian societies as a symbol of longevity and as such was only consumed by royalty. Reishi looks like a big white and brown flower made of wood. It packs a powerful amount of ganoderic acid that helps reduce cholesterol and high blood pressure. Revered for its immune system-boosting powers, this fungus is an effective antibacterial, antiviral, anti-fungal infection and cancer-fighting fungus. It’s no surprise that numerous studies back these up.
In 2009, a Bioorganic and Medicinal Chemistry study conducted in Taiwan showed that Reishi has unique polysaccharides that promote longevity. It does so by boosting your body’s immune system and preventing the formation of abnormal blood vessels that lead to the growth of cancerous cells. In 2010, Pharmacological Reports discovered that the triterpinioid ganoderic acid in Reishi prevents the development and spread of tumors. By 2011, they found that this mushroom could find and destroy existing cancerous cells already damaging the body. Come 2013, a study in Food and Chemical Toxicology used Reishi to reverse liver damage in mice caused by chemicals. Further research has also shown the Reishi mushroom playing a big part in helping fight neurodegenerative disorders Alzheimer’s and Huntington’s by stimulating the production of the protein nerve growth factor that promotes healthy neurological function.
We all want to live and long and healthy – and it’s easiest done by helping our bodies prevent diseases with a healthy diet that includes the fighting powers of Reishi mushrooms.