Mushrooms have been used for thousands of years, both as food and herbal medicines. Studies show that fungi can increase the production and activity of white blood cells. And this, according to the director of the Institute of Herbal Medicine Douglas Schar, very good for fighting infection. Here are some other benefits of mushrooms:
1. Lose weight.
Mushrooms contain about 80-90 percent water with low calorie content. In addition, fungi also contain very little sodium and fat, and 8-10 per cent of dried mushrooms is a component of fiber. Therefore, this food is ideal for those who follow the weight control program or diet to control hypertension.
2. Source of potassium.
Mushroom rich in potassium, a mineral that helps lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of stroke. One medium portabella mushroom has more potassium than reveal a banana or a glass of orange juice. A pint of mushrooms also provide 20-40 percent of your daily copper ajuran. Copper is a mineral that contains a protective component of the heart.
3. Fight free radicals.
Riboflamin rich mushroom, niacin, and selenium. Selenium is an antioxidant that works with vitamin E to protect cells from free radical damage.
4. Reduce the risk of prostate cancer.
In addition to fighting free radicals, levels of selenium in mushrooms also help prevent prostate cancer. Baltimore who studies aging study found that those taking twice-daily doses of selenium recommended 65 percent lower risk of prostate cancer. Men with the lowest selenium levels are four to five times more likely to develop prostate cancer than those who have the highest selenium levels in the blood.
5. Prevent breast cancer.
Button mushrooms contain functional components that inhibit the activity of aromatase (an enzyme involved in the production of estrogen) and 5-alpha-reductase (an enzyme that converts testosterone into DHT function). Recent findings indicate that the button mushrooms to reduce the risk of breast cancer and prostate cancer. Button mushroom extract reduces the multiplication of cells and reduces tumor size. The effects of chemotherapy can be seen with intake of about 100 grams of mushrooms per day.
6. Overcoming the flu.
In China and Japan, shiitake mushrooms have been used for centuries to overcome colds and flu. Lentinan, shiitake mushrooms isolated from the stem, otherwise stimulate the immune system, helps fight infection, and showed antitumor activity.
