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What Are Mushrooms Good For?

Mushrooms are rich in B vitamins and really pack a punch when battling viruses. They also offer fungus munchers the elusive fifth taste known as Umami -- a savoriness that is considered a basic taste along with sweet, sour, bitter and salty. The benefit of the mushroom can depend upon the type of mushroom. Benefits abound, so it pays to be a fan of fungus.

  1. Crimini Mushrooms

    • Crimini mushrooms help support the immune system.

      Crimini mushrooms, also known as Portobello mushrooms, are good for supporting the immune system, and a healthy immune system can aid in fighting arthritis and ward against cancer. These mushrooms help the immune system by shifting the activities of white blood cells. They can prevent certain white blood cells from becoming active when they're not needed, and they can boost the activities of certain white blood cells when it's beneficial. Crimini mushrooms can also be a source of vitamin B12, but the B12 content of mushrooms is dependent upon bacteria that grows on mushrooms and varies from farm to farm.

    Shiitake Mushrooms

    • Shiitake mushrooms have eritadenine, which can lower cholesterol.

      Shiitakes are heart-healthy mushrooms that are full of antioxidants. If you're looking to lower your cholesterol, try a heaping helping of this savory fungus. They contain eritadenine, which is known to reduce cholesterol levels. It's good news for the heart. Another amazing find in Shiitake mushrooms is a powerful antioxidant known as L-ergothioneine. Skin cells and tissues can use L-ergothioneine as an intregal part of their antioxidant defense system.

    Oyster Mushroom

    • Oyster mushrooms are packed with protein.

      If you're looking for a mushroom packed with protein, look no further. These little guys have almost as much protein as animal-derived sources. In addition to protein, this fleshy fungus has vitamins B1 and B2 and fiber and iron. The bonus to their nutritional value is that they help lower cholesterol and help fight against cancer.

    Maitake Mushrooms

    • Maitake mushrooms can be found at the foot of the Japanese oak trees and are considered to be highly medicinal. They grow in clusters and have a distinct rippling form, and their list of benefits is quite long. Maitake mushrooms promote good digestion, are thought to fight tumors and may increase the ability to fight cancer. In additional to these medicinal benefits, Maitake is also very nutritional and is high is potassium, calcium and magnesium and contains vitamins B2 and D2.

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