Health and Nutrition
Did you know?
By adding more mushrooms to your diet, you are fuelling your body with a natural superfood.
With more than 15 nutrients, including ample B Vitamins for heart health, the mushroom is an integral part of a well-balanced diet.
MUSHROOMS
Super food
•
Fat free
•
Heart smart
•
Decrease the risk of cancer
•
Lower sodium intake
•
Promotes lower cholesterol
•
Protect brain health
•
Source of vitamin D
•
Stimulate a healthier gut
•
Support a healthy immune system
•
Super food • Fat free • Heart smart • Decrease the risk of cancer • Lower sodium intake • Promotes lower cholesterol • Protect brain health • Source of vitamin D • Stimulate a healthier gut • Support a healthy immune system •
Top benefits of Mushrooms
Unlock the potential health benefits of mushrooms with these simple tips and tricks. From boosting your intake of vitamin D to preparing mushrooms for your favourite recipes, we've got you covered.
1. Rich Source of Vitamins and Minerals
Mushrooms are packed with essential vitamins, from vitamin D, B vitamins including riboflavin, niacin, and pantothenic acid, and minerals such as selenium, potassium, and copper. These nutrients are a key driver in maintaining overall health and well-being.
2. High in Antioxidants
Mushrooms are high in antioxidants, including ergothioneine and glutathione, which help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. Antioxidants also support immune function and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
3. Low in Calories and Fat
Mushrooms are naturally low in calories and fat, making them an excellent choice for those looking to manage their weight or reduce calorie intake. Their high fibre content helps promote feelings of fullness, aiding in weight management.
4. Good Source of Protein
Mushrooms are a highly valuable plant-based protein source. They contain all nine essential amino acids, making them a suitable option for vegetarians and vegans to meet their protein needs. Mushrooms are also easy to digest, making their protein content more accessible to the body for muscle repair and growth.
5. Promotes Heart Health
Mushrooms are cholesterol-free and low in sodium, making them heart-friendly foods. They also contain compounds like beta-glucans and potassium, which help regulate blood pressure and improve heart function. The high fibre content in mushrooms can help lower cholesterol levels, reducing the risk of heart disease when consumed as part of a balanced diet.
6. Supports Immune Function:
Certain types of mushrooms, such as shiitake and maitake, have immune-boosting properties due to their beta-glucan content. Beta-glucans stimulate the activity of immune cells, enhancing the body's defence against infections and diseases. Incorporating mushrooms into your diet can help strengthen your immune system and promote overall health.
Vitamin D, often called the "sunshine vitamin," plays a crucial role in the absorption of calcium, essential for maintaining strong bones. Did you know that mushrooms are the only produce source of Vitamin D? Like humans, mushrooms can synthesise vitamin D when exposed to UV light, making them a unique and valuable addition to your diet.
Exposing your mushrooms to direct sunlight for just 10-15 minutes may provide you with 100% of your daily Vitamin D needs! Plus, the vitamin D content in sunlight-exposed mushrooms can be retained with refrigeration for up to 8 days!
With almost one in four Australians being Vitamin D insufficient, mushrooms offer a natural, efficient, and cost-effective way to ensure your family gets enough of this vital nutrient.
Amplifying Vitamin D levels in Mushrooms
How to prepare mushrooms
Preparing mushrooms is a breeze with these handy tips. Begin by wiping away any small specks of dirt using a damp cloth or paper towel. Remember, mushrooms do not need to be peeled or washed. Depending on your recipe, there are various ways to prepare your mushrooms:
Sliced -
Ideal for risottos, pastas, stir-fries, sauces, and pies.
Diced -
Perfect for risottos, pastas, sauces, and pies.
Shredded -
Great for blending into meatballs, sausages, or burger patties.
Quartered -
Ideal for stir-fries, soups, sauces, and pies.
Left Whole -
Remove the stalk and stuff with your favourite toppings for a delicious twist.
Enhance the flavour and nutritional value of your dishes with mushrooms.
Visit our recipe page for a wide selection of easy and delicious mushroom recipes!