The Marvel of Mushrooms

Mushrooms have a wide range of health benefits.

Breast cancer Breast cancer is the leading cancer in women in South Africa as it is diagnosed in one in 29 women in their lifetime. It affects all women regardless of race, colour or age. Regular mammograms are of the utmost importance as early detection of breast cancer helps to fight it in a localized state. Early detection (when breast cancer is still in a localized area) has a 5-year survival rate of 98%.

Mushrooms contain vitamin D naturally – the only fruit or vegetable with this property. Higher vitamin D intakes have been associated with a possible lowering effect in the risk for breast, prostate, colon and lung cancer.

Ergothioneine Ergothioneine is an anti-ageing antioxidant. Antioxidants neutralize free radicals that cause cell damage. Mushrooms are an excellent source as they contain twelve times more than what can be found in wheat germ.

Vitamin B Mushrooms are high in a few types of vitamin B, including vitamin B1 (thiamine), B2 (riboflavin), B3 (niacin), B6 (pyridoxine) and B9 (folate) as well as certain minerals including selenium, potassium, phosphorus and iron.

Low calorie content Besides all the other benefits, mushrooms are a great addition to include in a calorie restricted diet. They have a high water and fiber content and can be added to a large variety of meals – raw or cooked – adding taste with virtually no salt, sugar or fat content.

Cholesterol lowering Mushrooms contain lovastatin, an agent that suppresses the activity of the major enzyme involved in cholesterol production. They also contain fiber, especially glucans, that have an impact on the uptake of cholesterol from food.

Resource: Highveld Mushrooms. 2013. Mushroom Health Benefits. www.highveldmushrooms.co.za