When it comes to functional foods, the turkey tail mushroom, often called turkey tail fungus, may top the list. Named for the colorful fall-like palette of stripes it adorns that favor the plume of feathers on turkeys, turkey tail mushrooms have been brewed for thousands of years by the Chinese as medicinal teas, so it’s no secret to them just how amazing this beautiful mushroom is.

It’s been used as early as the 15th century during the Ming Dynasty in China. The Japanese, who reference it as kawaritake or “cloud mushrooms” due to an image of swirling clouds, have been well aware of the benefits of this super, power-filled mushroom, with researchers noting its health benefits, particularly in boosting the immune system.

In fact, the cloud-like image symbolizes “longevity and health, spiritual attunement and infinity” to these Asian cultures.

So what is this amazing fungus? If you’ve taken a hike in the woods, you’ve probably seen plenty of turkey tail mushrooms because they grow abundantly on dead and fallen trees, branches and stumps. Given the description of bracket fungi, they form a wavy, thin, leather-like structure with concentric circles.

Unlike shiitake mushrooms that have gills underneath the top, they contain tiny pores that release spores, making them a part of the polypore family. These mushrooms easily grow almost anywhere in the world as long as there are trees, making them one of the most common mushrooms found today.

What Is Turkey Tail Mushroom?

The turkey tail mushroom comes from the Trametes versicolor family, formerly Coriolus versicolor (or “cloud mushroom”). It’s one of the 100 species of mushrooms that have been researched for their medicinal properties.

Turkey tail mushroom grows on dead logs in woodland environments worldwide and gets its name from the brown and tan rings that look like the tail feathers of a turkey. It’s a type of bracket fungi, which means that it forms thin, circular structures that appear leaf-like.

To find one, you probably just need to look around the ground when in a wooded area. While they have an array of fall colors like a span of turkey feathers, one of the most vivid colors is typically bright green and is actually algae.

Turkey tail benefits include stimulating immune function and reducing inflammation. It has a long history of use in Asia among practitioners of traditional Chinese medicine, who used formulations of turkey tail to promote general health, strength and longevity.

Health Benefits

1. Helps Prevent and Treats the Common Cold and Flu

The turkey tail mushroom has long been known to stave off any infection, including those associated with the common cold or flu. It helps your immune system become more resilient against ill-causing germs.

When flu season approaches, you may want to include turkey tail as a supplement in your dietary routine.

The turkey tail mushroom has been shown to modulate the immune system, helping fight infections, illness and diseases.

2. Can Offer Support to Chemo Patients

Benefits of turkey tail mushrooms may include helping cancer patients who are going through chemotherapy. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has conducted clinical trials for a turkey tail extract to be consumed by patients who have advanced prostate cancer and are enduring conventional chemotherapy as well as testing how well it helps women with breast cancer in combination with a vaccine treatment in hopes of a new and better form of cancer therapy.

Ultimately, since chemotherapy suppresses the immune system, the hope is that turkey tail mushroom builds the immune system up to better handle the weakness that chemo often causes. A stronger immune system can help combat deadly cancer cells, making the turkey tail mushroom a potentially potent cancer-fighting food.

3. May Help Combat Cancer

For more than 30 years, medicinal mushrooms have been used as adjuncts to standard cancer treatments in Japan and China. They are used for various types of cancer, including lung cancer, breast cancer, gastric cancer and colorectal cancer.

More research is needed to understand the true benefits of turkey tail mushroom for cancer, but there is evidence that it may help significantly improve survival, according to a review done by the National Cancer Institute.

PSK, the best known active compound found in turkey tail mushroom, has been studied in patients with several types of cancer, and it has been safely used for cancer in Japan with few reported side effects. Studies show that PSK helps repair immune cell damage that’s caused by chemotherapy and strengthen the immune system.

When six randomized clinical trials in patients with lung cancer were conducted, researchers found that patients receiving PSK improved in one or more ways, including body weight, well-being, immune function, tumor-related symptoms and longer survival.

A study published in Global Advances in Health and Medicine revealed that an 83-year-old woman who was diagnosed with advanced, metastatic inflammatory breast cancer led a disease-free life after using turkey tail mushroom. Though she continued chemotherapy, she consumed capsules of turkey tail mushroom at the same time.

Scientists believe that the immune response of the turkey tail mushrooms boosted the woman’s immune system by recognizing the tumor, which increased the effectiveness of the chemotherapy. This is consistent with research that claims medicinal disease-fighting mushrooms like turkey tail, as well as maitake, reishi and Agaricus blazei, can be natural immune-enhancing and anti-cancer treatments.

4. Helps Treat Human Papilloma Virus

Mushrooms, in particular the turkey tail mushroom, may help heal infections, such as an oral strain of the human papillomavirus (HPV). According to a study of 61 patients with gum disease testing positive for oral HPV, 88 percent of the 41 patients who received both turkey tail and reishi mushrooms showed positive results after only two months of treatment.

HPV in the mouth can sometimes lead to oropharyngeal cancer of the mouth.

5. Aids in Digestion

The mycelium in the mushroom is what may help you have a smoother digestion process when supplementing with turkey tail mushroom. The mushroom contains perfect prebiotics that assist the microbiome.

This means that it can help the growth of the good bacteria in the body, including acidophilus and bifidobacterium, which is even more beneficial for anyone suffering from leaky gut syndrome. This better digestion could even help you lose weight.

6. May Help Patients with HIV/AIDS

Studies reveal that the use of turkey tail mushroom, in conjunction with other wild medicinal East African mushrooms, may be useful in treating patients with Kaposi’s sarcoma, a skin cancer often affecting those with HIV/AIDS. The same product has also benefited patients with HIV/AIDS even without the sarcoma.

Turkey tail has antibacterial and antioxidant properties. Therefore, an extract of the turkey tail mushroom may be helpful. This extract, called PSP, has been studied in vitro, noting it as an antiviral agent that may prevent the replication of the HIV virus.

Nutrition Facts

Due to its ability to help cancer patients, turkey tail is considered one of the best researched mushrooms and sits right on top with other medicinal mushrooms, such as reishi, cordyceps, oyster and maitake. Many edible mushrooms contain selenium, vitamin D and vitamin B3, which is part of what makes them strong immune boosters, in addition to the nutrient-rich soil and decaying matter where they live.

These mushrooms feed on this decaying matter and other living things, such as rotting logs, making them saprotrophs.

Turkey tail benefits start with working as an immune system booster. They contain B-glucans, a type of polysaccharides, within the fungal cell walls. When eaten, these B-glucans provide receptors in the small intestine area that get the immune-boosting power in full force.

This power puts the turkey tail mushroom in the adaptogen category. Adaptogen herbs work to resist numerous stress factors that we face daily, providing support to the immune system and stimulating energy levels. Usually, adaptogens are herbal compounds found in things like mushrooms, roots, berries, barks and leaves.

Furthermore, mushrooms are composed of compacted mycelium, the vegetative part of fungus that’s jam-packed with nutrition, such as polysaccharides, proteins, minerals, and vitamins B and D. They’re also low-fat.

The mycelium structure is loaded with helpful enzymes, antimicrobial agents and antiviral compounds. In fact, this mycelium is more important than you may think by helping provide nutrient-dense soil, something our land is often lacking, which can help neutralize the toxins in our immune systems.

Eastern cultures have revered the powerful health benefits of mushrooms for thousands of years. In the classic herbal text the “Shen Nong Ben Cao,” written in 200 A.D., medicinal mushrooms are discussed for their healing potential.

In traditional Chinese medicine, turkey tail mushroom is known as Tun Zhi. It’s been used by practitioners of TCM as an immunomodulator that boosts immune function and fights infections. This ability to support the health of both an underactive and overactive immune system is unique and valued among physicians of traditional medicine.

Turkey tail mushroom is also revered for its potential anti-tumor mechanisms and its ability to treat pulmonary disease. In Japan, a purified hot water extract was traditionally made from cultivated fungal mycelium and used as an adjuvant treatment for cancer.

Turkey Tail vs. Reishi and Chaga

With so much interest in medicinal mushrooms, you may be wondering which one has the most health benefits. The truth is that, from what the research indicates, there are over 100 species of mushrooms that have therapeutic and healing properties.

Three of the most popular mushrooms on the market are turkey tail, reishi and chaga. Here’s a quick rundown on how they compare:

• Turkey tail mushroom: Turkey tail mushroom is consumed or taken as a supplement to stave off infection, offer support to patients undergoing chemotherapy and feed the beneficial bacteria in the gut.
• Reishi mushroom: Reishi mushroom plays a role in balancing hormones, stabilizing blood sugar levels, fighting allergies and asthma, and promoting heart and liver health.
• Chaga mushroom: Chaga mushroom is used to reduce inflammation, enhance endurance, boost immune function and fight viral infections.

All of these mushrooms are available in capsule, tablet and tincture forms, and they are often used together in mushroom tea and mushroom coffee.

Mushrooms have been around medicinally as far back as Neolithic times. In fact, according to Spirit of Change Magazine, “The oldest human mummy, dating back 4,000 years ago, was found with Piptoporus betulinus in his medicine kit, a mushroom used for its antibiotic properties and as a natural parasite killer, still in use today.”

Archaeologists have found evidence of mushrooms on Egyptian hieroglyphics, noting the mushrooms as “the plant of immortality, called the ‘sons of the gods’ sent to Earth on lightning bolts and eaten only by nobles and pharaohs.” The Aztecs event kept mushrooms as sacred, consuming them in holy rituals. And as noted above, Asian cultures have been keen to the turkey tail mushroom since the 15th century.

Supplements and Dosage

Turkey tail mushroom supplements are available in capsule form and usually taken to support a healthy immune system. In case your furry friends need some immune support, you can find turkey tail mushroom supplements for dogs, too.

Clinical evidence doesn’t support one specific dosage for turkey tail. Product labels usually suggest taking one to three capsules daily with meals and a glass of water. Turkey tail is also available in extract and powder forms, which can be added to water, juice or a smoothie.

Polysaccharide-K (known as PSK) is a protein-bound polysaccharide that’s isolated from turkey tail mushroom and used as a dietary supplement. It’s extremely popular in Japan for its anti-cancer properties and is taken orally to improve the response to chemotherapy for people with various types of cancer.

For several decades, PSK has been used in Japan for breast, lung, gastric, esophageal, colorectal, hepatic and nasopharyngeal cancers. In Japan, PSK is meant to help patients undergoing chemotherapy restore their immune status.

PSK cannot be legally sold in the United States. However, the pure version of turkey tail that was used in a breast cancer study can be found at Fungi Perfecti under the label “Host Defense.” Because this turkey tail mycelium is in its pure form, it’s considered an FDA-approved nutraceutical, allowing it to be marketed as a supplement.

False Turkey Tail Mushroom

There’s actually a type of mushroom that’s referred to as “false turkey tail mushroom” or golden curtain crust because it is a turkey tail mushroom lookalike. The scientific name for false turkey mushroom is Stereum ostrea, and it’s a basidiomycete fungus.

Like turkey tail mushroom, false turkey tail has concentric circles of many colors, but these fungui are described as being more red than turkey tail. The name ostrea actually means “oyster” to describe the mushroom’s shape.

Turkey tail mushroom and Stereum ostrea both contain compounds that inhibit the growth of bacteria and fungi. False turkey tail mushroom has been used for folk remedies because of its therapeutic compounds, including sesquiterpenes and other antimicrobial compounds.

How to Use

The turkey tail mushroom is edible but rather chewy, which is why it’s most commonly served as a tea or powder in capsule form. It’s often found combined with other mushrooms as a supplement, which you can find online or in your local vitamin store.

It’s best to buy organic to avoid toxins that may be found in the soil, especially since one of the biggest benefits comes from the dirt the mushroom is grown in, providing nourishment due to its natural environment.

Other things to consider when making a purchase is whether the product has been validated by scientific studies. You want to make sure you get the real thing that has been properly sourced. Find out where the mushrooms were grown and if they’ve been handled by experts.

Turkey tail mushrooms are an edible type of fungi, and they can be utilized in a number of recipes. For instance, you can make your very own turkey tail mushroom tea — just make sure to get turkey tail from an organic source. It’s recommended that you consume one to two eight-ounce glasses per day to receive the immune-boosting power it has the ability to provide.

To get a mild flavor, the best ratio is one part mushrooms to five parts of water. For example, for this recipe, I recommend one cup of mushroom to five cups of purified water:

Turkey Tail and Turmeric Tea

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 cup chopped turkey tail mushroom
• 5 cups purified water
• 2.5 teaspoons ground turmeric
• ½ teaspoon local honey
• 1 drop lemon essential oil

DIRECTIONS:

1. Chop the turkey tail mushroom into small pieces, and add to a large pot of water on the stove.
2. Bring the water to a boil, then simmer for an hour.
3. Strain the mixture through a colander. Add a ½ teaspoon of fresh ground turmeric and the honey, and stir.
4. Add the lemon essential oil, and stir again.
5. That’s it — time to drink!

If you’d like to add additional flavor, almond milk; one drop of cinnamon, ginger or lemon essential oil; or stevia are good options.

Feel free to add the rest of your turmeric to your leftovers while it’s still warm since it’s easier to blend, and keep any leftovers in the refrigerator. You can then reheat or serve chilled or on ice.

Risks and Side Effects

It’s always best to check with your doctor prior to using any new food for medicinal purposes, especially if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding or have any disease-related condition.

What are the side effects of turkey tail mushroom? Some patients have reported problems with bowels, such as diarrhea and darkened stools, as well as darkened nail pigmentation.

If you notice any negative effects or discomfort while consuming turkey tail mushroom, discontinue use immediately, and check with your doctor.

Final Thoughts

• Research seems very strong in the area of the turkey tail mushroom and its ability to be a great cancer-fighting natural remedy and immune booster.
• These medicinal mushrooms have also been shown to prevent and treat the common cold and flu, offer support to chemotherapy patients, treat HPV and other infections, aid digestion, and even offer help to HIV/AIDS patients, in addition to potentially combatting cancer.
• While more research needs to be conducted, choosing turkey tail mushrooms may be helpful and worth considering. If you choose to use the product, make sure that you adhere to the recommendations above regarding how to use it and buy it.

The post Turkey Tail Mushroom: The Disease-Fighting, Immune-Boosting Fungus appeared first on Dr. Axe.

What would you think about eating a mushroom that looks a little like the scruff of a lion? Not totally convinced about lion’s mane mushroom? What if I told you that it’s associated with major brain repair, potential cancer-fighting power and is undergoing research on dozens of other health benefits?

Lion’s mane mushroom is a nootropic food very popular in traditional Chinese medicine. A large body of research has focused around this brain-boosting mushroom in the last few years, and the results are nothing short of astounding.

One study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry lists the benefits by stating lion’s mane mushroom is “antibiotic, anticarcinogenic, antidiabetic, anti-fatigue, antihypertensive, anti-hyperlipodemic, anti-senescence [anti-aging], cardioprotective, hepatoprotective, nephroprotective, and neuroprotective, and improves anxiety, cognitive function, and depression.”

Wow — that’s quite a list!

Whether you’re interested in trying out lion’s mane mushroom in your mushroom coffee, looking for the best lion’s mane supplement or are just curious what this odd-looking fungus might be good for, I’m sure you’re going to be impressed.

What Is Lion’s Mane Mushroom?

Known in Latin as Hericium erinaceus, lion’s mane is native to North America, Europe and Asia, although it’s not cultivated widely in areas outside of Asia. It’s sometimes referred to as Hedgehog Mushroom, Yamabushitake or Houtou, and it belongs to the tooth fungus, or hydnoid fungi, group.

Lion’s mane mushrooms have long, dangling spines that are usually greater than a centimeter in length. Unlike most mushroom species, which have spines that project from a branch, the spines of Hericium erinaceus project outward, giving it that unique look of a lion’s mane.

These mushrooms grow on both living and dead broadleaf trees and are common in the late summer and fall months.

Research shows that lion’s mane possesses anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and immunostimulating properties in cells, animals and humans. It has been used for thousands of years as a medicinal mushroom, especially among traditional Chinese medicine practitioners.

Like many powerfully beneficial foods, lion’s mane mushroom has been known for some time in parts of Asia to be great for various body functions and conditions. Used in Japan for centuries and possibly millennia, the odd-looking fungus is revered by Buddhist monks and understood to be almost a mystical source of nutrition.

A sect of Buddhist monks known as the Yamabushi wear a garment known as the “suzukake,” fashioned from many long strands of fur, that bears a striking resemblance to the lion’s mane mushroom and probably accounts for why the mushroom is known in some areas as the yamabushitake.

Some sources state that it was reserved for royalty at different times in the past.

Benefits

1. Enhances Brain Function and Benefits the Nervous System

Maybe the most thoroughly researched feature of lion’s mane mushroom is its impact on brain cells and related functions. This incredible fungus may have revolutionary impact on neurodegenerative diseases.

One method by which lion’s mane affects brain function is by enhancing “neurite outgrowth” in the brain and related organs, according to research published in the International Journal of Medicinal Mushrooms. Neurite outgrowth refers to the growth of axons and dendrites from neurons.

That’s a big deal in brain health research. By increasing this growth, it could potentially be possible to slow or reverse cell degeneration in the brain — the main characteristic of diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.

A 2012 study conducted in Malaysia found that consuming lion’s mane mushroom could actually regenerate damaged cells from peripheral nerve injury, an injury affecting the delicate tissue between your brain and spinal cord.

When studying how brain diseases might be affected by particular medications or treatments, scientists often use what is known as the PC12 cell line for testing. Extracts and various forms of lion’s mane mushroom seem to have a major impact on PC12 cells, protecting them from damage and delaying their cell death significantly.

This finding may prove to be extremely relevant for prevention or treatment of brain conditions.

In animal research published in Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, lion’s mane mushroom stimulated cognitive function and helped improve memory in mice, both with and without an Alzheimer’s model. Multiple studies have found an inverse correlation between lion’s mane and Alzheimer’s-related symptoms, meaning that after consuming the mushroom extract, the mice’s symptoms improved.

An improvement of mild cognitive impairment in humans was also found in research published in Phytotherapy Research after eight to 16 weeks of lion’s mane supplementation, although this improvement did not last after subjects stopped taking this supplement.

The danger of ischemic injury (damage caused by a lack of blood flow) to neurons is also of significance when you’re talking about brain damage and disease. In laboratory tests conducted in Taiwan, lion’s mane mushroom has been shown to help prevent this type of injury.

Taking lion’s mane supplements has also been found to have potentially protective effects on the spread of Parkinson’s disease, another neurodegenerative disorder, according to animal research published in the Journal of Translational Medicine.

While this research is still in its infancy and has not progressed to large-scale human trials in most cases, the consistent effect lion’s mane mushroom has been found to have on brain cells should not be ignored.

2. May Help Protect Against Cancer

Lion’s mane may also be significant in helping treat cancer, according to a host of research. In varying degrees, compounds from or supplementation with lion’s mane mushroom has been found to potentially slow the progression or reverse the spread of:

• Leukemia
• Gastric (stomach) cancer
• Lung cancer
• Cervical cancer
• Liver cancer
• Colon cancer
• Breast cancer

In regard to leukemia, lion’s mane was shown to significantly reduce leukemia cells in a Korean study. Further Korean research conducted by the Department of Molecular Science and Technology at Ajou University found that thanks to the phytochemicals in lion’s mane mushroom, it has “therapeutic potential against human leukemia.”

As far as gastric cancer is concerned, a study published in the International Journal of Biological Macromolecules found that lion’s mane caused cell death and cell cycle arrest with gastric cancer. The researchers concluded, “our study provides in vitro evidence that HEG-5 may be taken as a potential candidate for treating gastric cancer.”

Both cell and animal studies published in the Journal of Natural Products and Kaohsiung Journal of Medical Sciences unearth the ability of lion’s mane mushroom to help treat lung cancer. Meanwhile, according in vitro and animal research published in the Journal of Biomedicine and Biotechnology and the Journal of Ethnopharmacology, lion’s mane exhibits anticancer activity against colon, breast and other cancers as well.

Some studies actually suggest the use of lion’s mane mushroom supplements to treat cancer, although long-term and large-scale studies haven’t been conducted to prove that as a viable option.

Another interesting finding involved the metastasis (cancer spreading) from the colon to the lung. When a cancer spreads to more than the original organ in which it was found, a patient is considered to have stage IV cancer.

In a study conducted on rats out of Korea, rats were given either hot water lion’s mane extract or microwaved ethanol extracts of lion’s mane mushroom. By consuming lion’s mane extract, the rats studied showed inhibited metastasis of cancer cells to the lungs by 66 percent and 69 percent, respectively.

3. Supports Heart and Circulatory System Health

Lion’s mane mushroom might also help you in preventing heart disease. In vitro and animal research has found that extracts of lion’s mane can prevent the increase of LDL cholesterol (sometimes referred to as “bad” cholesterol), increase HDL, or “good,” cholesterol and lower triglycerides in the bloodstream, an early indicator of heart disease.

An extract of lion’s mane mushroom may be able to prevent blood clots and help reduce the risk of stroke, according to a study from the Department of Cellular Signaling, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences at Tohoku University in Japan conducted on rabbit platelets.

4. Might Improve Digestive Health

Due in part to its powerful anti-inflammatory properties, lion’s mane mushroom might improve the function of your stomach and digestive system.

In multiple studies, lion’s mane mushroom has been shown to protect from or shrink gastric ulcers. For instance, according a study conducted on rats by the Mushroom Research Centre at the University of Malaya in Malaysia, researchers concluded the bioactive compounds in lion’s mane extract may be responsible for the gastroprotective activity exhibited on the rats.

Research on mice from China published in the International Journal of Medicinal Mushrooms confirms this, noting that “results indicate that the polysaccharide fraction is the active component of the H. erinaceus mycelium culture, which protects against gastric ulcers.”

Lion’s mane may also significantly improve symptoms of two major inflammatory disorders of the digestive system, gastritis and inflammatory bowel disease, as shown in lab studies and research on mice.

5. Reduces Inflammation

A 2015 study out of Japan found that lion’s mane mushroom was able to reduce inflammation in fatty tissue. This is important because fatty tissue inflammation is a factor in the formation of metabolic syndrome, a cluster of conditions that increase your risk of heart disease, stroke and diabetes.

Lion’s mane also has antibacterial effects against h. Pylori, often considered “the most successful pathogen in human history.” Many people never have symptoms of carrying the bacteria, but for some people it causes severe gastric conditions, like ulcers in the stomach and/or intestines.

6. Acts as a Powerful Antioxidant

The molecules in lion’s mane mushroom have antioxidant abilities and help prevent and relieve the oxidative stress caused by poor nutrition and exposure to chemicals in the environment.

One specific way these antioxidants may be useful is in the healing of wounds. A study at the University of Malaya found that a liquid extract of lion’s mane sped up wound healing significantly compared to natural healing in rats.

These antioxidants may also:

• Help prevent osteoporosis
• Protect against alcohol-induced liver damage, as shown in research on mice
• Slow the aging of skin, as displayed in a study on rats

7. Improves Mental Health and Overall Well-Being

A lion’s mane mushroom supplement may also help you feel better by improving sleep and reducing the effects of mental health issues.

The powerful polysaccharides extracted from lion’s mane have been shown to fight fatigue in mice trials. They also might have the ability to adjust circadian rhythms back to normal, as they did on mice in a study conducted at the Department of Agro-environmental Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture at Kyushu University, which is particularly significant for people who are at risk for dementia.

Consuming lion’s mane mushroom may also be a natural way to help treat depression and anxiety.

In one study, 30 women were given either a placebo or lion’s mane for four weeks. Researchers concluded, “Our results show that HE intake has the possibility to reduce depression and anxiety and these results suggest a different mechanism from NGF-enhancing action of H. erinaceus.” This seems to be related, in part, to the inflammation factor related to depression, as shown in mice studies.

8. Improves Immune Function

Lion’s mane seems to have the ability to enhance immune system function in a manner also related to the polysaccharide content in the fungus, according to research performed on mice.

9. Might Be Useful for Managing Diabetes

A 2013 animal study showed marked improvement in blood glucose levels, insulin sensitivity and various other diabetes symptoms when an extract of lion’s mane mushroom was given to them.

Possibly because of the antioxidant activity of lion’s mane, administering it to animals also seems to relieve pain caused by diabetic neuropathy. (46)

Nutrition

Research suggests that lion’s mane is a source of at least 32 bioactive compounds. Although it’s hard to pinpoint the vitamin and mineral content of lion’s mane, it’s believed to be a rich source of potassium, zinc, iron and selenium.

One reason lion’s mane has been researched for a wide variety of purposes is because of the polysaccharides it contains. Polysaccharides are complex carbohydrate structures, like glucose.

Lion’s mane mushroom contains beta-glucan polysaccharides, which are known scientifically to have correlations with various health benefits, like heart health and immune responses.

Lion’s Mane vs. Reishi

Both lion’s mane and reishi are fungi used in traditional Chinese medicine for medicinal and therapeutic purposes. They have many similar health benefits, including their ability to boost immune function and fight oxidative stress.

Lion’s mane is known and valued for its neuroprotective capabilities. It promotes cognitive health by enhancing “neurite outgrowth,” which plays a critical role in neural growth while reducing inflammation.

Lion’s mane is commonly used in traditional Chinese medicine to maintain qi, a person’s vital energy, and improve issues affecting the central nervous system. It may be recommended to patients dealing with Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, depression, anxiety, insomnia and cognitive impairment.

Reishi mushroom is known for its amazing healing properties. Like lion’s mane, it has powerful anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.

It’s also used to boost mental clarity and help the body deal with the negative effects of stress, which is why it’s considered to act much like an adaptogen herb. Reishi mushrooms also contain polysaccharides, like lion’s mane, which give them their potential cancer-fighting capabilities.

Uses

Lion’s mane mushrooms have been used for centuries as a food source and herbal medicine in several Asian countries. In the last 10 years or so, this medicinal mushroom has attracted considerable attention because of its potential therapeutic capabilities in neurodegenerative diseases.

In the East, reverence for fungi dates back many centuries, with fungi known as “spirit plants” that were believed to provide longevity and spiritual potency. According to research published in the Journal of Restorative Medicine, in Chinese and Japanese medical systems, lion’s mane has traditionally been used to nourish the gut, fortify the spleen and also as an anticancer agent.

In traditional medicine, it’s said to be nutritive to our five internal organs — the lung, heart, spleen, kidney and liver — and it’s used to promote good digestion, strength and general vigor.

Lion’s mane mushroom is also used to improve symptoms of qi deficiency (a lack of “vital energy”) in traditional Chinese medicine and is often taken for issues involving the central nervous system, insomnia and weakness.

Unfortunately for many of us Westerners, lion’s mane mushroom isn’t readily available at the grocery store, with the possible exception of Asian grocery markets in places like Chinatown.

However, there are two options you still have. One, it’s possible to grow lion’s mane in North America, and kits are available online with seeds to grow it in your own personal garden.

If you go this route, be aware that many people liken the mushroom to a seafood-tasting, fleshy item. It pairs well with brown rice or quinoa, especially if you add some fresh flavors, such as bell peppers or sweet onion.

Not everyone has a way to grow personal crops, so you can also purchase lion’s mane mushroom in supplement form. Be sure to do your research and only purchase high-quality supplements from trusted manufacturers.

Recipes

To prepare lion’s mane mushroom, brush off any bits of dirt from the spines, cut off the part that was attached to the tree and cut it into half-inch steaks. Then using a dry pan, cook the steaks for about five minutes on each side, checking on them every few minutes. You want the water in the mushrooms to come out so they become a bit crispy.

Once the mushrooms have begun to brown, add in a bit of grass-fed butter, ghee or olive oil, plus salt and pepper, and continue to cook on low until the mushroom steaks turn golden brown.

When sautéing lion’s mane, you can also add in chopped garlic, yellow onion and other vegetables that you would typically pair with shrimp, as the two are known to have similar flavors.

Sautéed lion’s mane mushrooms would work perfectly in my vegetarian ceviche recipe, especially because they add that traditional fish-like flavor of ceviche but keep the dish vegetarian-friendly.

Related: Chaga Mushroom: 5 Benefits and How to Make Chaga Tea

Supplements (Dosage)

Lion’s mane supplements are often used for their potential cognitive-enhancing and immune-boosting capabilities. You can find supplements in extract, powered and capsule forms online or in your local vitamin store.

You can find lion’s mane mushroom capsules with lion’s mane as the sole ingredient or as part of a combination that’s meant to promote brain health, including other nootropic foods and herbs like reishi, cordyceps, ginkgo biloba and ashwagandha.

When using any dietary supplement, you must read the label for the proper dosage, especially when there’s a combination of ingredients. The dosages recommended in supplements ranges from 300 milligrams to 3,000 milligrams, one to three times daily, so follow the instructions on the label carefully.

If you aren’t sure how your body will react, start with a smaller dose of a lion’s mane supplement, and work your way up from there.

If you notice any allergy symptoms after using lion’s mane mushroom extract or supplements, like itchiness or digestive issues, stop using the supplement altogether.

Risks and Side Effects

Lion’s mane mushroom is a generally safe food item. Multiple animal studies have found it to be non-toxic at different dosages, even over extended periods of time.

There have been isolated reports of lion’s mane mushroom side effects, including one of contact dermatitis and another of respiratory distress related to consuming lion’s mane.

If you choose to eat this mushroom and have any symptoms, such as burning/itching skin, inability to breathe properly or swollen lips, consult your doctor immediately.

Final Thoughts

• Lion’s mane mushroom is an edible fungus grown in Asia, Europe and North America.
• It has been used for millennia as a medicinal food in traditional Chinese medicine and other ancient medicinal practices.
• Due to the presence of unique polysaccharides and other nutrients, lion’s mane mushroom has a large number of health benefits.
• The two most well-known benefits of consuming lion’s mane are the potential ability to prevent or protect the spread of neurodegenerative disease and cancer.
• Lion’s mane mushroom may also help improve heart health, protect from inflammatory digestive issues, reduce inflammation, relieve oxidative stress, improve mental health, boost immunity and prevent diabetes.
• Lion’s mane is not available in most Western grocery locations, but you can grow your own or take it in supplement form.

The post Lion’s Mane Mushroom: The Potential Brain-Boosting, Cancer-Fighting Powerhouse appeared first on Dr. Axe.

When it comes to sticking to a healthy diet, disease-fighting mushrooms check off all the boxes. Mushroom nutrition is low in carbohydrates and calories but a great source of B vitamins, trace minerals, fiber and even protein.

Mushrooms are also anti-inflammatory foods, and mushroom nutrition contains high levels of beta-glucan compounds that keep immune cells alert, plus a powerful antioxidant called ergothioneine that helps lower bodywide inflammation.

The medicinal use of mushrooms has a very long tradition in Asian countries that dates back thousands of years. In China, for example, certain types have historically represented “a combination of spiritual potency and essence of immortality.”

Although their use in the Western Hemisphere only started increasing in the past several decades, numerous recent studies show that they provide an array of vital, biologically active compounds.

You may wonder a few things about mushrooms and mushroom nutrition, such as:

• What are the health benefits of mushroom?
• Can I eat mushrooms every day?
• Which mushrooms are safe to eat? Are some mushrooms bad for you?
• Is a mushroom a protein or a carb?
• Are mushrooms vegetarian?

Let’s take a look below at what you need to know.

Health Benefits

1. Fights Cancer Cell Growth

Known to be a natural cancer treatment and one of the best foods for increasing “natural killer cells” — the type of immune cells that seek out and destroy dangerous cancerous cells — mushrooms are praised as powerful cancer-fighting foods.

Thanks for their antitumor, antimicrobial and antioxidant effects, according to recent studies, the anti-cancer compounds found in mushrooms play a crucial role in protecting against oxidative damage and killing off cancer cells to prevent tumor formation. Protective compounds found within these special fungi include:

• triterpenes
• phenolic compounds
• polysaccharides
• sterols
• eritadenine
• chitosan

This means that mushroom nutrition can help block DNA damage and stop cells from mutating, all while protecting healthy cells and increasing the body’s ability to detoxify itself of dangerous substances.

In addition, a systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies published in Advances in Nutrition in March 2021 found that revealed that consuming at least two mushrooms per day could potentially lower cancer risk by as much as 45 percent. The researchers concluded: “The association between higher mushroom consumption and lower risk of cancer, particularly breast cancer, may indicate a potential protective role for mushrooms in the diet.”

2. Boosts Immune Function

According to a 2020 report published in the journal Molecules, mushrooms contain compounds and complex substances with “anti-diabetic, anti-hyperlipidemia, anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, antioxidant, anti-aging, anticancer, antiviral, and hepato-protective” effects.

That may sound like a mouthful, but it means that they can enhance almost every system in the body and protect you from numerous diseases since they’re associated with lowered inflammation. Sustaining high levels of inflammation long term has been shown to contribute to chronic conditions, such as diabetes and cancer.

Mushrooms also have the natural ability to fight dangerous bacteria and viruses. In fact, they need to have strong antibacterial and antifungal compounds just to survive in their own natural environment.

This is why it’s not surprising that these beneficial compounds can be isolated from many mushrooms and used to protect human cells. They are even shown to protect against deadly multi-resistant strains of bacteria and other microorganisms responsible for a multitude of health problems.

In fact, some substances present in common antibiotics given to people when they’re sick — including penicillin, streptomycin and tetracycline — are derived from mushroom fungal extracts.

3. Protects Heart Health

Eating more mushroom is one way to lower cholesterol levels naturally. Many types of mushrooms help lower levels of “bad” LDL cholesterol and keep arteries from hardening to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Mushrooms have sterol compounds that interfere with the production of cholesterol in the liver, yet at the same time they can raise levels of “good” HDL cholesterol. They also contain potent phytonutrients that help keep cells from sticking to blood vessel walls and forming plaque buildup, which can improve circulation and maintain normal blood pressure.

4. Enhances Energy Levels

Mushrooms are a great source of B vitamins, which help support adrenal function and turn nutrients from food into energy that your body can use. B vitamins also support neurotransmitter function to break through brain fog, prevent thyroid disorders and support a healthy metabolism.

5. Supports Weight Management

Studies find that regularly substituting mushrooms for meat might help you lose weight, since they are a low-calorie, nutrient-dense food. In fact, eating mushrooms several times per week has been linked with increased weight loss, reduced waist circumference and less body fat.

6. Provides Vitamin D

Vitamin D deficiency is a serious problem for many people and linked to everything from low immune function to depression. Although vitamin D is best obtained from sun exposure, certain kinds of mushrooms can also provide a hearty dose of this important vitamin as well.

Exposing mushrooms to UV light, whether they’re grown outdoors or indoors under certain light fixtures, increases their concentration of vitamin D. Adding a variety of vitamin D-rich foods to your diet is thought to reduce your risk of cancer, cardiovascular disease, mood disorders and bone loss.

Studies show that certain kinds of mushrooms provide a good amount of vitamin D2 along with vitamin D3 (the kind best utilized by humans) and vitamin D4.

7. Promotes Better Brain Function

Is chronic stress killing your quality of life? Certain types of mushrooms, especially reishi, are also considered adaptogens.

This means they can help your body deal with stress and lower levels of cortisol. Certain mushroom species can also lower inflammation, which is thought to play a central role in cognitive function, mood, energy levels and age-related neurodegenerative diseases.

8. Can Help Strengthen Bones

Because some mushrooms produce vitamin D that you can then consume when you eat them, research suggests that adding them to your diet can help strengthen bone health and protect against serious conditions like osteoporosis.

Vitamin D is necessary for the absorption of calcium, and a deficiency in this key vitamin can increase the risk of fractures, weakened bones and mineralization defects. One animal model in the European Journal of Nutrition demonstrated that feeding mice shiitake mushrooms enriched with vitamin D and calcium helped increase bone mineral density and reduced the risk of osteoporosis.

9. May Support Reproductive Health and Fertility

Thanks to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, animal studies have found that these fungi can help fight against age-related sexual dysfunctions (desire, arousal, orgasm and pain).

One study found that cordyceps supplementation in rats helped improve sperm motility, survival rates and progressiveness. Other animal studies have found some evidence that these fungi may support healthy levels of reproductive hormones, such as testosterone, and potentially boost libido by increasing energy and stamina.

Mushroom Nutrition (Plus Types)

Is a mushroom a fungus, a vegetable or a meat?

Although most people think of mushrooms as vegetables, they’re in fact a type of beneficial fungi. 

The term “mushroom” refers to any macrofungus with a distinctive fruiting body large enough to be seen with the naked eye and picked by hand. As of now, there are more than 14,000 different mushroom species that grow around the world — and perhaps way more.

There’s still a lot to learn about the many mushroom species on Earth. For example, it’s estimated that there may be more than 140,000 different species in existence, which suggests that scientists only know about 10 percent of the possible species at this time.

Species that grow around the world vary widely, ranging from small to big types and those that come in a variety of colors (brown, tan, red, orange, etc.).

Which mushroom is best for health? Some of the most common types of edible mushrooms include:

• Cordyceps mushroom
• Reishi mushroom
• Chaga mushroom
• Turkey tail mushroom
• Lion’s mane mushroom
• Maitake mushroom/hen of the woods mushroom
• Shiitake mushroom
• Morel mushroom
• Portobello mushroom
• Oyster mushroom
• Cremini or white button mushroom
• Wood ear mushroom
• Honey mushroom
• Truffle mushroom
• Porcini mushroom
• Enoki mushroom
• King oyster mushroom
• Chicken of the woods mushroom

Although various types differ in terms of their exact calorie and nutrient count, mushroom nutrition is typically very low in carbohydrates (making them a natural choice for the low-carb or keto diet), calories, fat and sodium. Mushroom nutrition also provides an array of diverse nutrients, including antioxidants, energizing B vitamins, copper and selenium.

One cup of raw white button mushroom nutrition contains the following nutrients:

• 21 calories
• 2 grams carbohydrates
• 3 grams protein
• 1 gram fiber
• 0.4 milligrams riboflavin (23 percent DV)
• 5 milligrams niacin (17 percent DV)
• 4 milligrams pantothenic acid (14 percent DV)
• 0.3 milligrams copper (13 percent)
• 9 milligrams selenium (13 percent DV)
• 305 milligrams potassium (9 percent DV)
• 83 milligrams phosphorus (8 percent DV)

How to Use (Recipes)

Look for fresh or dried mushrooms in grocery stores, health food stores or at your local farmers market, where you might be able to score some rarer types.

It’s important to buy and eat organic grown mushrooms whenever possible because they’re very porous and have the tendency to easily absorb chemicals from the soil that they’re grown in. Mushrooms can contain high levels of toxins like heavy metals and pesticides when they’re chemically sprayed or exposed to water pollutants, so it’s worth the extra money to buy the best quality you can.

Dried mushrooms might be a bit more expensive than fresh ones, but they’re a good option when mushrooms aren’t in season.

To wash mushrooms, some need just a wipe down with a clean, damp cloth to remove any dirt (like shiitake, portobello, small crimini and button mushrooms). Others, such as the chanterelle mushroom, should be cleaned using a delicate brush.

Since mushrooms absorb water easily, you don’t want to rinse them for too long or keep them submerged in water, as this can make them “water-logged.” A quick rinse to get off any visible dirt is usually enough.

Keep them dry in the refrigerator until the time you’re ready to use them, and remember that they have a short shelf life so the quicker you use them, the better.

Many people like to store them in a paper bag rather than a plastic one. This allows air to move in and out, which can keep them in better condition.

When it come to cooking mushrooms, each type needs to be handled a bit differently. Dried mushrooms, for example, can be rehydrated by combining them with boiling water and letting them sit for about 15 minutes so they plump up to a larger volume.

Large mushrooms like portobellos can be baked and still hold their firm texture, but more delicate mushrooms like shiitakes and cremini are best for sautéing in a pan or wok. Keep in mind mushrooms absorb a lot of liquid at first but later release their water, so don’t feel the need to drown them in sauce or oil.

Mushrooms add an earthy flavor and chewy, hearty texture to all kinds of savory dishes — from omelets and stir-fries to whole grain pilaf or side dishes. They can also be used as a base for mushroom risotto, added to mushroom pasta or cooked into a tasty mushroom sauce.

You can also sauté, roast, grill or stir-fry the fungi for a simple yet delicious side dish.

Here are several mushroom recipe ideas to add more of this flavorful fungi to some easy, healthy meals:

• Homemade Cream of Mushroom Soup Recipe
• Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burger
• Stuffed Mushroom Recipe
• Vegan Mushroom Gravy
• Mushroom Coffee

Risks and Side Effects

If you buy mushrooms in supplement form or scavenge for mushrooms that grow in the wild on your own, always look for a reputable brand. If scavenging, consult with a specialist who knows about wild mushrooms and is well-versed in mushroom identification.

Why are some mushrooms bad for you, an is it possible for a mushroom to kill you?

Some mushroom types, such as psilocybin mushrooms and amanita mushroom, also known as psychedelic mushrooms or “magic mushrooms,” contain compounds that can cause symptoms like hallucinations and changes in perception, even when consumed in small amounts. Other mushrooms, like the death cap mushroom, can be toxic or contaminated and are not meant for human consumption, so be careful where you purchase “medicinal mushrooms.”

Also, look for organic mushrooms whenever possible, and if you can’t find these, give dirty mushrooms a good rinse or wipe down to remove residue, bacteria and possibly even insects.

Keep in mind that most mushrooms contain purines that can be naturally found in some plants and are linked to health problems in some cases. Purines break down to form uric acid, which can accumulate and lead to conditions like gout or kidney stones in rare circumstances.

Therefore, if you have an existing problem that’s worsened by purines, you should eat mushrooms in moderation.

Conclusion

• Why are mushrooms good for health? Mushroom nutrition can help reduce cancer cell growth, increase energy levels, enhance heart health, boost brain and immune function, and improve weight control.
• Mushroom nutrition is also very impressive. Although it can vary between different edible mushroom species, there are typically a low amount of calories, fat and carbs in mushrooms in each serving along with a good amount of antioxidants, B vitamins and other micronutrients in mushroom nutrition.
• There are thousands of different species that grow around the world, many of which scientists are still learning about. Common mushroom varieties include shiitake, morel, oyster and portobello mushrooms.
• Keep in mind that not all species are safe for consumption. Certain types can actually be poisonous, and hallucinogenic mushrooms can even cause changes in perception.
• Enjoy mushroom nutrition in a variety of different dishes such as sauces, stews, soups and side dishes to take advantage of the unique benefits that these flavorful fungi have to offer.

The post Mushroom Nutrition Benefits: Cancer Fighters and Cell Renewers appeared first on Dr. Axe.

Mushrooms such as the lion’s mane mushroom and cordyceps have been used as natural remedies in many countries for thousands of years and have become a staple across many different cultures and cuisines. Oyster mushrooms, on the other hand, are one of the newest mushrooms to pop up lately but have still managed to become a favorite fungi of many due to their distinct flavor and extensive health benefits.

This unique mushroom has been cultivated for less than 100 years, and scientists are just beginning to scrape the surface of the many potential benefits that it has to offer. So far, however, results have been promising, showing that it may benefit everything from inflammation to heart health.

What Are Oyster Mushrooms?

Known formally by its scientific name Pleurotus ostreatus, the oyster mushroom is named for its shell-like appearance and resemblance to oysters. It’s very versatile with a mild flavor and licorice-like aroma and has quickly become an integral part of many Asian dishes, from soups to sauces and beyond.

Oyster mushrooms were originally cultivated in Germany during World War I as a means of sustenance when food was scarce. Today, these nutritious mushrooms can be found growing wild across North America, Europe and Asia and are also grown for commercial use around the world.

With their white, shell-like appearance, oyster mushrooms received their name due to their similarities in appearance to the oyster. Not only do they look alike, but oyster mushrooms also share a similar flavor to this popular type of bivalve as well.

These mushrooms are considered saprotrophic, which means that they feed on dead and decaying material like wood. The cap can grow between two to 10 inches in size, and they can range in color from white to dark brown.

Interestingly, the oyster mushroom is one of the few types of mushrooms that is considered carnivorous. These mushrooms release a chemical with an appealing smell to draw in microscopic nematodes, then use their mycelia to paralyze, kill and digest the creatures as a way of obtaining nitrogen.

Health Benefits

1. May Lower Cholesterol Levels

Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance that is found throughout your body and is essential for health. Cholesterol is an important component of your cell membranes and is required for the synthesis of cholesterol, bile acids, and certain vitamins and hormones. Excess cholesterol, however, can build up in your blood, forming fatty deposits in the arteries and increasing your risk of heart disease and stroke.

Oyster mushrooms have been shown to help lower cholesterol naturally and fast in some animal studies. A study published in the journal Mycobiology, for example, showed that supplementation with oyster mushrooms helped reduce total cholesterol levels by 37 percent and lowered triglycerides by 45 percent in rats. Still, more studies are needed to determine how oyster mushrooms may affect cholesterol levels in humans.

2. Alleviate Inflammation

Inflammation is a normal immune response designed to protect the body against infection and disease. Chronic inflammation, on the other hand, is believed to be associated with a higher risk of conditions like cancer, heart disease and diabetes.

Oyster mushrooms have been shown to possess powerful anti-inflammatory properties. According to a test-tube study published in Nutrition Journal, oyster mushrooms were able to reduce the secretion of multiple markers of inflammation in the body. This could have far-reaching benefits, as decreasing inflammation may help provide relief from many inflammatory conditions ranging from rheumatoid arthritis to inflammatory bowel disease.

3. Packed with Antioxidants

Antioxidants are compounds that help fight free radicals and prevent damage to cells. Research suggests that antioxidants may play a central role in health and disease and can help fight oxidative stress to reduce the risk of certain chronic conditions.

Some studies have found that oyster mushrooms are loaded with health-promoting antioxidants, which may account for their multitude of health benefits. In fact, both test-tube and animal studies have shown that oyster mushrooms are effective at increasing antioxidant levels in the body and neutralizing harmful free radicals.

4. May Block Cancer Growth

One of the most impressive oyster mushroom benefits is its powerful effect on cancer cells. Thanks to their high content of antioxidants as well as their anti-inflammatory properties, oyster mushrooms may be able to help inhibit the growth of certain types of cancer, making oysters mushrooms potential cancer-fighting foods.

A test-tube study conducted by the Methodist Research Institute’s Cancer Research Laboratory in Indianapolis found that oyster mushrooms were able to inhibit the growth and spread of breast and colon cancer cells. Similarly, another test-tube study in 2011 showed that oyster mushroom extract had therapeutic effects against colorectal tumor and leukemia cells.

5. Boost Brain Health

Believe it or not, what you eat can have a major impact on the health of your brain and may even influence your risk of neurodegenerative diseases and dementia. Certain vitamins and minerals, in particular, are especially important when it comes to brain health.

Oyster mushrooms are rich in many of the nutrients believed to enhance brain function. Niacin, for instance, has been shown to protect against Alzheimer’s disease and cognitive decline in older adults in clinical research. Meanwhile, a 2014 review out of Belgium suggested that riboflavin supplementation may have therapeutic effects against Brown’s syndrome, a type of motor neuron disorder.

Nutrition Facts

Mushroom nutrition, in general, can be surprisingly impressive. Take a look at the oyster mushrooms nutrition profile, and it’s easy to see why they’re so good for you. They’re extremely low in calories but contain a good chunk of protein, fiber, niacin and riboflavin.

One cup of sliced oyster mushrooms (about 86 grams) contains approximately:

• 37 calories
• 5.6 grams carbohydrates
• 2.8 grams protein
• 0.4 gram fat
• 2 grams dietary fiber
• 4.3 milligrams niacin (21 percent DV)
• 0.3 milligram riboflavin (18 percent DV)
• 1.1 milligrams pantothenic acid (11 percent DV)
• 103 milligrams phosphorus (10 percent DV)
• 361 milligrams potassium (10 percent DV)
• 0.2 milligram copper (10 percent DV)
• 0.1 milligram thiamine (7 percent DV)
• 23.2 micrograms folate (6 percent DV)
• 1.1 milligrams iron (6 percent DV)
• 0.1 milligram manganese (5 percent DV)
• 0.1 milligram vitamin B6 (5 percent DV)

In addition to the nutrients listed above, oyster mushrooms also contain a small amount of magnesium, zinc and selenium.

Types

If you’re looking to add oyster mushrooms to your diet, there are a few different options for you to choose from. Pearl oyster mushrooms are considered the most common type of oyster mushroom and are used in cooking around the world. The blue oyster mushroom is another variety that is widely available, which starts off dark blue in color and gradually lightens as it matures.

Note that there are several types of mushrooms that have “oyster” in the name but are actually different than the common oyster mushroom.

For example, king oyster mushrooms, also known as king trumpet mushrooms, are closely related to the oyster mushroom but belong to a different species of mushrooms. These mushrooms have a meaty, umami flavor and are often used as a vegan-friendly meat replacement in some recipes. Golden oysters, pink oysters and phoenix oysters are other examples that are in the same genus as oyster mushrooms but have minute differences in taste, texture and appearance.

Vs. Maitake Mushrooms

Much like oyster mushrooms, maitake mushrooms are abundant in many types of Asian cooking, including Japanese and Chinese cuisines. They can be served as a side dish, made into a savory sauce or added to soups.

One of the most notable differences between maitake mushrooms and oyster mushrooms is their appearance. Maitake mushrooms have distinctive feathery, leaf-like fronds while the caps of oyster mushrooms resemble a shell. There are also some differences in taste, with maitake providing a richer, more earthy flavor than oyster mushrooms, which tend to be more mild and delicate.

There are many similarities when it comes to nutrition, though. Both are low in calories and contain a hearty dose of B vitamins, such as niacin and riboflavin. However, oyster mushrooms contain double the amount of protein per ounce and are also slightly higher in certain micronutrients like phosphorus and potassium.

Aside from their nutrient profile, maitake mushrooms are also revered for their medicinal properties. Both types of mushrooms can be nutritious additions to the diet and can be enjoyed in many different recipes. Try increasing your intake of both to take advantage of the unique health benefits and nutrients that each has to offer.

How to Use

Oyster mushrooms taste mild with a delicate flavor and a licorice-like scent often compared to anise seed. They are popular for their tender and smooth texture and are versatile enough to swap into just about any recipe. Additionally, much like other types of mushrooms, such as cremini mushrooms, oyster mushrooms can be enjoyed either raw or cooked.

These mushrooms are frequently found in many types of Asian cuisine, including a variety of Japanese, Korean and Chinese dishes. They have also made their way into the cuisines of other countries around the world, such as the Czech Republic and Slovakia, where oyster mushrooms are sometimes used to provide a meaty texture and flavor to traditional stews.

Oyster mushrooms can be seasoned and served on their own for a flavorful side dish or added to soups and stir-fries. They can also bump up the flavor and nutritional value of recipes like burgers, pastas or omelettes.

If you don’t have the means to start hunting or growing oyster mushrooms in your backyard, you’re in luck. Thanks to their growing popularity, oyster mushrooms are now available at many grocery stores and farmers markets. They’re typically available in fresh, dried or even canned form for a quick and convenient addition to your favorite recipes.

The oyster mushrooms price can vary widely but tends to be comparable to other types of mushroom like shiitake mushrooms. In general, you can expect to pay around $10–$12 for a pound of fresh oyster mushrooms.

How to Cook

Like many other types of mushrooms, oyster mushrooms can be consumed raw or cooked. In fact, simply sautéing them with a bit of oil and seasoning makes a delicious dish all on its own.

If you’ve never tried preparing mushrooms at home, figuring out how to cook oyster mushrooms or how to cook mushrooms in general can be a little tricky. Simply clean them thoroughly under running water, slice or mince them, and then add them to a skillet over medium heat with some coconut oil or grass-fed butter. Stir occasionally for about 10 minutes, until moisture has evaporated and the mushrooms have started to darken. Then simply season and enjoy!

Precautions

Some people may be allergic to mushrooms and other types of fungi. If you experience any food allergy symptoms like hives, swelling, nausea, vomiting or cramps after eating oyster mushrooms, discontinue use and talk to your doctor.

Additionally, oyster mushrooms contain a very small amount of arabitol, a type of sugar alcohol that can cause trigger gastrointestinal symptoms in some people. If you find that you’re sensitive to sugar alcohols or following a diet plan low in FODMAPs, it may be best to limit your intake of oyster mushrooms.

Mushrooms also contain a good amount of purines, a compound that is broken down into uric acid in the body. High levels of uric acid can aggravate gout symptoms, such as pain, swelling and redness in the joints. It may be helpful to limit your intake of purine foods if you have a history of gout or are experiencing a flare-up of symptoms.

Finally, if harvesting wild mushrooms, take care to identify them properly. There are many mushrooms with a similar appearance, some of which may even be toxic. Pay special attention to the physical features and scent of the mushroom to ensure proper oyster mushroom identification.

Final Thoughts

• Oyster mushrooms are low in calories but contain a good amount of protein, fiber, niacin and riboflavin, along with an array of other micronutrients.
• Test-tube and animal studies have shown that oyster mushrooms are high in antioxidants and may help reduce inflammation and cholesterol while boosting brain health and inhibiting cancer growth.
• They have a mild flavor and can be added to side dishes, soups and sauces. There are many other oyster mushroom recipes ideas available for creative ways to use this mushroom as well.
• Oyster mushrooms can be found at most grocery stores and farmers markets in fresh, dried or even canned form.
• Pair them with other nutrient-dense foods in your diet to maximize the potential health benefits of these delicious mushrooms.

The post Oyster Mushrooms: Cancer Fighter & Brain Booster appeared first on Dr. Axe.

Mushrooms have been consumed for centuries as part of diets promoted in folklore and Eastern medicine practices, including Traditional Chinese Medicine. The ancient Egyptians considered mushrooms, such as cremini mushrooms, to be a food that promoted immortality and were worthy of being included in diets fed to royal leaders.

Still, to this day, mushrooms are associated with many anti-aging effects, especially due to their ability to fight cancer. Studies have found that common edible mushrooms — including button mushrooms (Agaricus bisporus), oyster mushrooms (Pleurotus ostreatus), shiitake mushrooms (Lentinus edodes) and maitake (Grifola frondosa) mushrooms — all have anticancer properties that are similar to those of medicinal/supplemental mushrooms.

This includes cremini mushrooms, and that’s that all these fungi can do.

What Are Cremini Mushrooms?

Cremini mushrooms are small- to medium-sized brown mushrooms that have an earthy, mild taste. While the difference in taste between button mushrooms and creminis is small, some people find the flavor of creminis to be richer and more appealing.

Where can you find cremini mushrooms? As more research is uncovering the many protective effects of including mushrooms in one’s diet, especially in regard to preventing chronic diseases, they’ve become easier and easier to find in most grocery stores. Keep in mind that because cremini mushrooms are the same species as button and portobello mushrooms, they might sometimes be labeled as “baby bella,” mini bella or portobellini mushrooms.

In recent years there’s a been a growing focus on including mushrooms as part of dietary approach to preventing cancer. Mushroom consumption has been found to be associated with destruction or slowed growth of cancerous cells, along with reductions in tumor size.

Certain studies have found that when cancer cells are exposed to extracts derived from mushrooms, they experience a decreased ability to form blood vessels that are needed to feed cancerous tumors, as well as reduced production of enzymes that are needed for cancerous cells to reproduce.

While most people think of exotic, “medicinal” mushrooms as the types that are capable of preventing diseases, button/cremini mushrooms have many similar benefits. Cremini mushrooms are a great source of many vitamins and trace minerals, in addition to antioxidants that help protect cells, and potassium, an electrolyte that many people don’t get enough of.

Health Benefits

What are the benefits of eating cremini mushrooms? According to a 2012 report published in the journal 3Biotech regarding mushrooms’ ability to fight disease, researchers stated, “The chief medicinal uses of mushrooms discovered so far are as anti-oxidant, anti-diabetic, hypocholesterolemic, anti-tumor, anti-cancer, immunomodulatory, anti-allergic, nephroprotective, and anti-microbial agents.”

Below are some of the most compelling reasons to include cremini/button mushrooms in your diet, based on research findings regarding unique compounds and nutrients found in mushrooms and their specific effects.

1. May Help Protect Against Cancer

Perhaps the most convincing reason to eat more mushrooms is due to their anticancer potential. Mushrooms are a cost-effective, safe way to help lower your cancer risk, as they’ve been found to promote decreased tumor cell proliferation and decreased tumor weight, while causing virtually no side effects.

One of the major active components in cremini mushrooms is conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), which has been shown to have protective effects against growth of cancerous cells.

A 2001 study published in the Journal of Nutrition that was conducted on mice found that when the mice consumed mushrooms extract, they experienced a significant reduction in growth of breast cancer cells. The study found evidence that Agaricus bisporus extract suppresses the activity of aromatase, resulting in a reduction of estrogen production.

Estrogen dominance has been identified as one major contributor to postmenopausal breast cancer in women — however, compounds, such as flavones and isoflavones, found in cremini mushrooms have been shown to help inhibit some of estrogen’s negative effects.

Other studies have found similar positive effects of mushrooms in regard to treating prostate cancer and leukemic monocyte lymphoma.

According to studies, the anticancer compounds found in various species of mushrooms, including Agaricus, play a crucial role in reducing cancer risk by decreasing reactive oxygen species, regulating cell division (mitotic kinase), regulating angiogenesis (development of blood vessels) and leading to apoptosis (destruction/death of harmful cells). There’s also evidence that consuming mushrooms can complement cancer treatments, including chemotherapy and radiation therapy, in addition to reducing common side effects of these treatments, such as nausea, bone marrow suppression, anemia and suppressed immune function.

2. Protect Cardiovascular Health and Reduce Risk for Metabolic Syndrome

Ergothioneine (EGT) is a beneficial amino acid that’s found mainly in mushrooms, making them one of the only foods sources available to us. A 2012 study in published Molecular Basis of Disease relays, “Studies have demonstrated antioxidant and cytoprotective capabilities of EGT against a wide range of cellular stressors.”

Ergothioneine has been linked to cardiovascular benefits, including reduced inflammation, protection against damaged blood vessels and healthier cholesterol levels, in addition to protection against red blood cell disorders, diabetes or liver damage. It may also help reduce swelling (inflammation) in the lungs and damage to the kidneys and brain.

3. Treat and Prevent Fatigue

Throughout history, a variety of mushrooms have been used as tonics and herbal remedies for treating fatigue, low immune function and weakness, including shiitakes, cordyceps, reishi mushrooms and, yes, even creminis. Due to their ani-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, they’re helpful for increasing immunity against common illnesses, like the cold or flu, in addition to infections.

Some research has shown that mushrooms work by increasing production of cytokines, parts of the immune system that play a role in defending the body against pathogens and many illnesses.

Mushrooms are unique for a “vegetable” (really, a fungus) in terms of their high concentration of B vitamins. B vitamins found in cremini mushrooms include niacin (vitamin B3), pantothenic acid (vitamin B5) and riboflavin (vitamin B2). Pantothenic acid(vitamin B5) plays a role in many metabolic processes, including turning fats and carbohydrates that we obtain from the foods we eat into energy. Vitamin B5 — along with other B vitamins and nutrients — is needed to fuel the brain, contributing to cognitive health and preventing fatigue.

Higher consumption of B vitamins has been linked to reductions in age-related memory loss, migraine headaches, chronic brain syndrome, depression, motion sickness and insomnia. Other benefits of niacin include balancing cholesterol and blood pressure levels, while riboflavin helps prevent anemia, treat headaches or migraines, lower PMS symptoms, and prevent diseases of the the eyes, including glaucoma.

4. Help Restore Gut Health

Due to their rich supply of antioxidants, in addition to nutrients like selenium and copper, cremini mushrooms have demonstrated protection against intestinal permeability (aka leaky gut syndrome) and reductions in inflammation and oxidative stress. Consumption of cremini mushrooms extracts have shown positive effects on conditions affecting the gastrointestinal tract, such as inflammatory bowel disease, fibrosis, ulcerative colitis and colon cancer.

Selenium is an essential trace element found in mushrooms that helps mitigate the effects of cellular oxidative stress due to how it provides selenoenzymes, selenoamino acids and selenoproteins. These protect the gut barrier and seem to play a central role in preventing oxidative injury that can wind up affecting the whole body.

5. Pack a Potassium Punch

One serving of cremini mushrooms (about one cup) provides just about 10 percent of your daily potassium, the third most abundant mineral found in the human body. Potassium is needed for numerous cellular activities and helps balance levels of other minerals, including sodium, yet low potassium is a common issue. Consuming creminis is one way to help prevent low potassium.

A diet higher in potassium has been linked to benefits including healthier blood pressure, better recovery from exercise, protection against weak bones, and reduced fatigue, muscle cramps or spasms, headaches, and brain fog.

Nutrition Facts

Cremini mushrooms are a type of fungi that have the species name Agaricus bisporus. The mushrooms are native to grassland areas throughout Europe and North America and are part of the fungus family called basidiomycete.

Some of the greatest benefits of cremini mushrooms are due to a little known amino acid called ergothioneine, which also works similarly to antioxidants. Another surprising attribute of mushrooms is that they provide a range of amino acids (often called the “building blocks of proteins”), especially the kind called glutamate.

Cremini mushrooms also contain the phytochemical CLA, which research suggests has anticancer properties, in addition to offering protection against atherosclerosis (or “hardening of the arteries”), high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes and other conditions.

Only a very small number of foods actually provide any much-needed vitamin D. While mushrooms typically only contain very low amounts of vitamin D, they’re unique in their ability to produce and provide much more when exposed to sunlight.

Many adults (and children too) are deficient in vitamin D due to spending most of their time indoors, which interferes with the body’s ability to make enough on its own. When “sun mushrooms” are exposed to UV light for several hours, they may be able to provide 100 percent of the recommended daily intake of vitamin D, offering benefits for bone health, immunity, mental health and more.

One cup (72 grams) of sliced, raw cremini mushrooms contains about: (11)

• 19.4 calories
• 3 grams carbohydrates
• 1.8 grams protein
• 0.1 gram fat
• 0.4 gram fiber
• 18.7 micrograms selenium (27 percent DV)
• 0.4 milligram riboflavin (21 percent DV)
• 0.4 milligram copper (18 percent DV)
• 2.7 milligrams niacin (14 percent DV)
• 1.1 milligram pantothenic acid (11 percent DV)
• 86.4 milligrams phosphorus (9 percent DV)
• 323 milligrams potassium (9 percent DV)
• 0.1 milligram thiamine (5 percent DV)
• 0.8 milligram zinc (5 percent DV)
• 0.1 milligram manganese (5 percent DV)
• 0.1 milligram vitamin B6 (4 percent DV)
• 10.1 micrograms folate (3 percent DV)

Cremini Mushrooms vs. Other Mushrooms

Cremini mushrooms have more in common with other familiar mushrooms, like white button or portobellos, than you might think. All of these mushroom varieties actually belong to the same species of fungus, called Agaricus bisporus.

What makes these mushrooms taste and look a bit different than one another is mostly their stage of maturity, which affects their size, color and often even their price. In many nations today, white button mushrooms are the best-selling type and often the easiest to find too.

All types of edible mushrooms are consumed by the hundreds of millions of pounds every year. In the United States alone, every year more than 940 million pounds of mushrooms are bought in grocery stores, farmers markets and health food stores.

Are all of these mushrooms equally good for you? In many ways, yes, they are.

When cooking with creminis or other related mushrooms, you’ll benefit from obtaining lots of B vitamins, phosphorus, selenium, copper, and even some fiber and protein too. Mushrooms are very low in fat and calories, in addition to both sugar and carbs. Yet mushrooms of all kinds pack a big punch when it comes to helping to prevent free radical damage, problems with bone loss, and potentially weight gain or various types of cancer.

In fact, mushrooms are associated with so many health-promoting effects that they’ve even earned their own research journal: the International Journal of Medicinal Mushrooms.

Here is more on how cremini mushrooms stack up vs. other varieties:

• Mushrooms are all species of fungi, which we eat more often than you’d think. Not only do we eat beneficial fungi when consuming disease-fighting mushrooms, but we also obtain some from eating cheese, drinking wine and even from certain types of traditionally prepared breads.
• Mushrooms contain many bioactive compounds, which include polysaccharides, proteins (amino acids), enzymes, small amounts of healthy fats, glycosides, alkaloids, volatile oils, and antioxidants like tocopherols, phenolics, flavonoids and carotenoids.
• Portobello mushrooms are the mature version of cremini mushrooms. Portobellos are harvested when they’re fully grown, while creminis are picked earlier before their “caps” grow very big.
• Both cremini and portobello mushrooms have a darker brown color than white button mushrooms. Both have a round shape, smooth cap and deeper, savory flavor compared to button mushrooms, according to many cooks.
• Shiitake mushrooms have a long history of use of Traditional Chinese Medicine, especially for treating infections and fatigue. They have a smokier taste than cremini mushrooms and make a great addition to stir-fries, soups or risotto, especially when combined with other anti-inflammatory foods like garlic and onions.
• While you wouldn’t use them to cook with, medicinal mushrooms, such as cordyceps or reishi mushrooms, have dozens of well-researched benefits. Medicinal mushrooms are taken in supplement or extract form and have strong adaptogen qualities, meaning they help support the nervous system and boost the body’s ability to cope with stress, fatigue or illness. Studies have found that mushrooms like cordyceps and reishi have strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatry abilities that help prevent conditions like respiratory infections, cancer, cognitive disorders, autoimmune disorders, liver and kidney disease, chronic fatigue, hepatitis, and more.
• Another type of mushroom you may come across in the supermarket is maitake mushrooms. These contain a special polysaccharide components called beta-1,6 glucan, which supports a strong immune system and may help prevent viruses, infections or complications due to diabetes. In supplement form, maitake mushroom is used to treat side effects of cancer, hepatitis, chronic fatigue, high blood pressure, PCOS and many other ailments.
• Oyster mushrooms, which usually have gray-blue or light yellow caps, are another variety that may be pricier and harder to find, but they have many uses, including when cooking. Oyster mushrooms supply lots of B vitamins and iron, so they are beneficial for treating anemia and symptoms due to autoimmune disorders, such as joint pain or low energy. They also contain a molecule called lovastatin, which is useful for treating high cholesterol.

How to Use and Cook (Plus Recipes)

Look for cremini mushrooms that appear to be firm, solid, free from tears, and not shriveled or slippery looking.

To clean mushrooms, it’s best not to rinse them in too much water or soak them due to how they absorb a high amount of liquid and can become slippery. Instead remove any residue from the surface of mushrooms using a damp cloth, rag or strong paper towel. Gently rub the mushrooms to clean them up, being careful not to rub too hard as this can cause them to start breaking.

Once you’re done cleaning the mushrooms, pat them with a dry cloth or paper towel to let them dry — this way they don’t become overly soggy when you cook or prepare them.

In situations where you’re unable to find creminis, try substituting white button mushrooms or chopped portobellos instead. Because portobellos are a bit larger and firmer, most people prefer to use them when making grilled mushroom veggie burgers or stuffed mushrooms.

Cremini mushrooms still give you the savory flavor you’re looking for but are a better choice when using them sliced up in sauces, on salads, or in omelets, stir-fries or casseroles. Cremini mushrooms (and related varieties) pair well with other ingredients like:

• onion
• garlic
• feta or goat cheese
• basil
• parsley
• red pepper flakes
• garlic
• tomatoes
• soy sauce
• butter
• stock
• risotto
• rice
• barley
• bulgur
• other whole grains

Cremini Mushroom Recipe Ideas

Here are several recipe ideas using cremini mushrooms:

• Florentine Omelette with Mushrooms Recipe
• Stuffed Mushrooms Recipe
• Pecorino Chicken & Mushrooms Recipe
• Mushroom Soup Recipe

Risks and Side Effects

Cremini mushrooms are unlikely to cause an allergy, but if you have an allergy to another type of mushroom it’s best to avoid creminis and use caution. Mushrooms contain purines that are linked to health problems in some cases due to how they form uric acid, which can accumulate and lead to conditions like gout or kidney stones.

Speak to a doctor about whether mushrooms might worsen your symptoms if you struggle with one of these conditions.

Final Thoughts

• Cremini mushrooms are brown, small to medium-sized mushrooms that are related to portobellos and white button mushrooms.
• Benefits of cremini mushrooms include reducing inflammation; helping prevent cancer or heart disease; supplying high levels of B vitamins, antioxidants and phytonutrients, like CLA and L-ergothioneine; and providing selenium, copper, potassium, phosphorus and B vitamins.
• There are a variety of ways to use them, including in sauces, on salads, or in omelets, stir-fries or casseroles.

The post Cremini Mushrooms Benefit the Heart, Gut & Help Fight Against Cancer appeared first on Dr. Axe.

Enoki mushrooms are an unfamiliar ingredient to many, including some mushroom enthusiasts and culinary connoisseurs. This edible mushroom is set apart from others due to its unique flavor, interesting appearance and impressive nutrient profile. The enoki mushroom also has been linked to a number of different mushroom nutrition benefits and has been well-studied for its anti-cancer, immune-boosting effects.

Also known as the golden needle mushroom, lily mushroom, futu mushroom or Flammulina velutipes, enoki is a type of fungi that is common in Asian cuisine. It differs in appearance from other edible mushrooms and is typically found in clusters with long, white stalks and small caps on the ends.

Not only is this mushroom incredibly versatile and easy to incorporate in your cooking, but it’s also packed with essential nutrients and delivers a punch of antioxidants, fiber and B vitamins in each serving. In many traditional forms of medicine, enoki mushrooms have also historically been used to treat stomach problems, manage blood pressure levels and promote liver health.

What else is enoki mushroom good for, how should you enjoy it and why should you consider including it in your diet? Let’s take a closer look at this medicinal food and a few of the ways it can impact your health.

Benefits and Uses

Enoki mushrooms are available in both wild and cultivated forms, both of which can be used in a variety of different enoki mushroom recipes. Wild mushrooms are typically light brown in color and have shorter stems with large caps. You can usually find enoki mushroom growing at the base of several different types of trees, including Chinese hackberry, mulberry, persimmon or ash trees.

Cultivated forms can be found in specialty markets or purchased online. They differ from wild forms because of their white color and longer stem, which is due to the lack of light exposure and the carbon dioxide-rich environment in which they are grown.

The enoki mushroom taste is typically described as mild, yet slightly sweet and fruity. It tends to have a firm, solid texture. When selecting your mushrooms, ensure they’re fresh; steer clear of stems that are discolored, slimy or rubbery; and wash thoroughly prior to consumption.

There are plenty of ways to use the mushroom enoki, like cooking in soups, ramen, stir-fry, noodles and omelets. Enoki is a great addition to any vegetarian dish, and these mushrooms pair well with meat recipes, including chicken, beef or fresh fish.

Here are a few simple recipes to help get you started:

• Enoki Mushroom Recipe Stir-Fry: This stir-fry is made with brown rice and cooked nutrient-rich Swiss chard. For extra flavor, you can add a bit of soy sauce or a soy sauce substitute like tamari.
• Korean Enoki Mushroom Pancakes: These enoki pancakes, or fritters, are easy to make at home and just take a few minutes.
• Japanese Enoki Mushroom Recipe with Udon Noodles: This noodle dish is made with vegetables, herbs and soy sauce. For a boost of protein, you can try cooking it with chicken, beef or your favorite protein, too.

Now that you know how to cook enoki or add it to easy dishes at home, you can get excited about the mushroom’s many, many heath benefits. Here’s a rundown on why exactly you’ll want to top off your meals with these nutrient-dense fungi:

1. Highly Nutritious

Enoki mushrooms are low in calories yet packed with a long list of important vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. They’re especially high in B vitamins like niacin, thiamine and riboflavin, all of which are essential to brain function, energy production, DNA synthesis and more.

Enoki mushrooms also contain a good amount of antioxidants, which are beneficial compounds that help neutralize harmful free radicals to protect against chronic disease. An animal study published in BioMed Research International found that the mushrooms are an especially good source of antioxidants like quercetin, catechin, gallic acid and caffeic acid.

One cup (about 65 grams) of sliced enoki msuhrooms contains approximately the following nutrients:

• 24 calories
• 5 grams carbohydrates
• 1.7 grams protein
• 0.2 gram fat
• 1.8 grams dietary fiber
• 4.6 milligrams niacin (29 percent DV)
• 0.15 milligram thiamine (12 percent DV)
• 0.1 milligram riboflavin (10 percent DV)
• 31 micrograms folate (8 percent DV)
• 0.07 milligram vitamin B6 (4 percent DV)

2. Supports Heart Health

One of the most promising enoki mushroom benefits is its powerful impact on heart health. In fact, the animal model published in BioMed Research International referenced above found that hamsters who consumed enoki mushroom extract had lower levels of total cholesterol, triglycerides and bad LDL cholesterol, all of which are risk factors for heart disease.

3. May Help Fight Cancer Cells

In vitro studies and animal models have found that enoki mushrooms could help fight against the growth and development of cancer cells. In mice, for example, a specific protein in the mushrooms was shown to decrease tumor activity in liver cancer cells.

Similarly, another study in the journal Oncology Reports noted that enoki mushrooms effectively blocked the growth of breast cancer cells in vitro.

Keep in mind, however, that more research is needed to confirm the potential enoki mushroom health benefits and understand how they may impact cancer development in humans.

4. High in Fiber

Each serving of enoki mushrooms packs a serious punch in terms of nutrition. Not only do these mushrooms bring a megadose of key vitamins and minerals to the table, but enoki mushrooms are also high in fiber, squeezing 1.8 grams into a single cup.

Fiber is important for several aspects of health, but it’s especially important for digestion. Studies show that eating more fiber can protect against issues like constipation, hemorrhoids, intestinal ulcers, diverticulitis and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

5. Boosts Immune Function

Some research has found that enoki mushrooms contain a protein compound that could help bump up immunity. In fact, one animal model out of Taiwan actually demonstrated the immune-enhancing properties of the enoki mushroom, noting that it was effective at increasing immune function and reducing tumor growth when administered to mice.

Risks and Side Effects

Despite the numerous advantages of eating this fungi, there are some downsides that you should consider as well. While generally considered safe for most adults, those with a mushroom allergy should avoid consuming enoki mushrooms. Additionally, if you experience symptoms like swelling, hives or itching, discontinue use, and talk to your doctor.

If picking mushrooms in the wild, be sure not to confuse enoki mushrooms with Galerina marginata, a type of poisonous mushroom that is similar in appearance. Unlike enoki mushrooms, however, this type of mushroom has brown caps with a ring on the stalk.

It’s also important to prepare mushrooms properly to avoid adverse side effects. Many people wonder: Can you eat raw enoki mushrooms, and do you have to wash them? Eating them raw is not recommended; instead, cooking enoki and adding them to sauce, ramen, rice dishes and other preparations is safest.

You’ll know they are fresh when they are light and dry, with a firm texture. To extend their shelf life, store them in a bag in the refrigerator. Although it may depend on a variety of different factors, these mushrooms can typically last around seven to 10 days with proper storage.

Conclusion

• Enoki mushroom is a type of fungi that is common in Asian cuisine. Not only is it incredibly versatile and easy to incorporate in your cooking, but it’s also packed with essential nutrients, delivering powerful antioxidants, fiber and B vitamins in each serving.
• In traditional medicine, enoki mushrooms have been used to treat stomach problems, manage blood pressure levels and promote liver health. Today, you can add these edible fungi to any dish for an extra boost of nutrients.
• This versatile and nutritious food also helps boost immune system function and heart health, while aiding digestion.

The post Enoki Mushroom Benefits for Heart Health, Immunity & More appeared first on Dr. Axe.

Medicinal mushrooms have been used for thousands of years to help promote better health, and mushroom varieties, such as psilocybin mushrooms and turkey tail mushrooms, are well-known for their incredible health-promoting properties. The maitake mushroom is no exception.

Not only is it delicious and full of nutrients, but it also boasts some pretty amazing health benefits.

In recent years, the maitake mushroom has garnered worldwide attention as more and more emerging research continues to unearth its multitude of health-promoting properties. This is largely thanks to the presence of D-fraction, a specific compound extracted from the maitake mushroom that has been shown to have therapeutic effects for cancer patients.

Today, maitake mushrooms are continuing to gain widespread popularity across the globe as more people have come to appreciate them for their medicinal properties, versatility and delicious flavor.

What Are Maitake Mushrooms?

Also known as hen of the woods or Grifola frondosa, maitake mushrooms are a type of edible fungi that are native to China but are also grown in Japan and North America. They are commonly found in clusters at the base of maple, oak or elm trees and can grow to over 100 pounds, earning them the title “king of the mushrooms.”

The maitake mushroom has a long history in its use as both a culinary and medicinal mushroom. The name “maitake” comes from its Japanese name, which translates to “dancing mushroom.” It is said that people would dance for joy upon discovering the mushroom thanks to its potent healing powers.

This beneficial food has a unique, frilly appearance, a delicate texture and an earthy flavor that works well in many different dishes, from burgers to stir-fries and beyond. While often considered a staple in Japanese cuisine (like oyster mushrooms and shiitake mushrooms), Grifola frondosa has also been gaining widespread popularity around the globe in recent years.

Not only that, but these medicinal mushrooms have also been associated with a wide variety of health benefits, from regulating blood sugar to dropping cholesterol levels. They are also considered adaptogens, meaning that they contain powerful properties that can help naturally restore and balance the body to promote better health.

Benefits

1. Balances Blood Sugar

Sustaining high levels of sugar in your blood can bring some serious consequences when it comes to your health. Not only can high blood sugar lead to the development of diabetes, but it can also cause side effects like headaches, increased thirst, blurred vision and weight loss.

Long term, diabetes symptoms can become even more serious, ranging from nerve damage to kidney problems.

When consumed as part of a healthy, well-rounded diet, maitake mushrooms may help stabilize blood sugar levels to sidestep these negative symptoms. One animal model conducted by the Department of Food Science and Nutrition at Nishikyushu University’s Faculty of Home Economics in Japan found that administering Grifola frondosa to diabetic rats improved glucose tolerance and blood glucose levels.

Another animal study had similar findings, reporting that the fruit of the maitake mushroom possesses powerful anti-diabetic properties in diabetic mice.

2. May Kill Cancer Cells

In recent years, several promising studies have researched the potential connection between the maitake mushroom and cancer. Although research is still limited to animal models and in vitro studies, maitake grifola may contain powerful cancer-fighting properties that make the fungi a worthy addition to any diet.

One animal model published in the International Journal of Cancer showed that administering an extract derived from the Grifola frondosa to mice helped effectively block tumor growth.

Similarly, a 2013 in vitro study reported that maitake mushroom extract could be useful in suppressing the growth of breast cancer cells.

3. Lowers Cholesterol Levels

Keeping your cholesterol levels in check is absolutely essential when it comes to maintaining a healthy heart. Cholesterol can build up inside the arteries and cause them to harden and narrow, blocking blood flow and forcing your heart to work harder to pump blood throughout the body.

Although more research is needed, some studies suggest that maitake mushrooms could help naturally lower cholesterol levels to keep your heart healthy. An animal model published in the Journal of Oleo Science, for example, found that supplementation with maitake mushrooms was effective in reducing cholesterol levels in mice.

4. Boosts Immune Function

The health of your immune system is vital to overall health. It acts as a natural defense system for your body and helps fights off foreign invaders to protect your body against injury and infection.

Maitake contains beta glucan, a polysaccharide found in fungi that supports healthy immune function, among other health benefits.

Adding a serving or two of Grifola frondosa to your diet may help boost your immune system to ward off disease. An in vitro study published in the Annals of Translational Medicine concluded that maitake grifola mushrooms were effective in stimulating an immune response and were even stronger when paired with shiitake mushrooms.

In fact, the researchers out of the University of Louisville’s Department of Pathology concluded, “Short-term oral application of natural immunomodulating glucans from Maitake and Shiitake mushrooms strongly stimulated both the cellular and humoral branch of immune reactions.”

5. Promotes Fertility

Polycystic ovarian syndrome, also known as PCOS, is a condition caused by an overproduction of male hormones by the ovaries, resulting in small cysts on the ovaries and symptoms like acne, weight gain and infertility.

Some research suggests that maitake mushrooms may be therapeutic against PCOS and could help combat common issues like infertility. A 2010 study conducted at the J.T. Chen Clinic’s Department of Gynecology in Tokyo, for example, found that maitake extract was able to induce ovulation for 77 percent of participants with PCOS and was nearly as effective as some of the conventional medications used for treatment.

6. Reduces Blood Pressure

High blood pressure is an incredibly common health condition that is estimated to affect a whopping 34 percent of U.S. adults. It occurs when the force of the blood through the arteries is too high, placing excess strain on the heart muscle and causing it to weaken.

Regularly consuming maitake can help reduce blood pressure to prevent high blood pressure symptoms. One animal model published in the International Journal of Medical Sciences found that giving rats an extract of Grifola frondosa could lessen age-related hypertension.

Another animal study out of the Department of Food Chemistry at Tohoku University in Japan had similar findings, finding that feeding rats maitake mushroom for eight weeks lowered blood pressure as well as levels of triglycerides and cholesterol.

Nutrition Facts

Maitake mushrooms are low in calories but contain a small chunk of protein and fiber, plus B vitamins, such as niacin and riboflavin, and beneficial beta glucan, which has immune-boosting effects.

One cup (about 70 grams) of maitake mushrooms contains approximately:

• 22 calories
• 4.9 grams carbohydrates
• 1.4 grams protein
• 0.1 gram fat
• 1.9 grams dietary fiber
• 4.6 milligrams niacin (23 percent DV)
• 0.2 milligram riboflavin (10 percent DV)
• 0.2 milligram copper (9 percent DV)
• 0.1 milligram thiamine (7 percent DV)
• 20.3 micrograms folate (5 percent DV)
• 51.8 milligrams phosphorus (5 percent DV)
• 143 milligrams potassium (4 percent DV)

In addition to the nutrients listed above, maitake grifola also contains a small amount of zinc, manganese, selenium, pantothenic acid and vitamin B6.

Related: Mushroom Powder: The Versatile Superfood for Coffee & More

Maitake vs. Other Mushrooms

Much like maitake, reishi mushrooms and shiitake mushrooms are both revered for their potent health-promoting properties. The reishi mushroom, for example, has shown to be therapeutic against cancer and reduce cardiovascular risk factors, such as high blood pressure and increased cholesterol levels.

Shiitake mushrooms, on the other hand, are thought to fight obesity, support immune function and reduce inflammation.

While reishi mushrooms are mostly found in supplement form, both shiitake and maitake are more commonly used in cooking.

Like other mushroom varieties, such as the portobello mushroom, shiitake mushrooms are also a popular meat substitute for their woodsy flavor and meat-like texture. Both maitake and shiitake mushrooms are often added to burgers, stir-fries, soups and pasta dishes.

Nutritionally speaking, shiitake and maitake are pretty similar. Gram for gram, maitakes are lower in calories and higher in protein, fiber, niacin and riboflavin than shiitake mushrooms.

Shiitake, however, contains a higher amount of copper, selenium and pantothenic acid. Both can be added to a balanced, well-rounded diet to take advantage of their respective nutrition profiles.

How to Use

Grifola frondosa is in season between late August and early November and can be found growing at the base of oak, maple and elm trees. Be sure to select those that are young and firm, and always wash them off thoroughly before consuming.

If you’re not as well-versed in mushroom hunting and are wondering where to find maitake, you may need to venture beyond your local grocery store. Specialty stores or online retailers are your best bets for getting your hands on these tasty mushrooms. You can also find maitake D fraction extract in supplement form from many health food stores and pharmacies.

Of course, be sure to check the label carefully to prevent confusion with Grifola frondosa lookalikes, such as Laetiporus sulphureus, also known as chicken of the woods mushroom. Although these two mushrooms share similarities in their names and appearance, there are plenty of differences in taste and texture.

The maitake flavor is often described as strong and earthy. These mushrooms can be enjoyed in many different ways and can be added to everything from pasta dishes to noodle bowls and burgers.

Some people also enjoy roasting them until crisp with just a hint of grass-fed butter and a dash of seasoning for a simple yet delicious side dish. Like other mushroom varieties, such as cremini mushrooms, maitake mushrooms can also be stuffed, sautéd or even steeped into a tea.

There are plenty of ways to start enjoying the health benefits of these delicious mushrooms. They can be swapped into just about any recipe that calls for mushrooms or incorporated into main courses and side dishes alike.

Check out these Grifola frondosa recipes to get started:

• Maitake Mushroom Burger
• Stir-Fried Sheepshead Maitake Mushrooms
• Maitake Noodle Bowls
• Grilled Thai Marinated Maitake Mushrooms
• Maitake Bacon

Risks and Side Effects

For most people, maitake mushrooms can be safely enjoyed with minimal risk of side effects. However, some people have reported allergic reactions after consuming maitake mushrooms.

If you notice any food allergy symptoms, such as hives, swelling or redness, after eating Grifola frondosa, discontinue use immediately, and consult with your doctor.

If you are taking medicine to lower your blood glucose, blood pressure or cholesterol levels, it’s best to discuss with your health care provider before taking maitake mushrooms to avoid interactions or side effects.

Additionally, if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it’s best to stay on the safe side and limit your intake to prevent adverse symptoms, as the effects of maitake mushrooms (especially maitake D fraction drops) have not yet been studied in these populations.

Conclusion

• Grifola frondosa is a type of edible fungus commonly grown in China, Japan and North America.
• Known for their medicinal properties, maitake mushrooms have been shown to help balance blood glucose, boost immune function, work as a treatment for high cholesterol levels, reduce blood pressure and promote fertility. They may also have an anti-cancer effect.
• Grifola frondosa is also low in calories but contains a good amount of protein, fiber, niacin and riboflavin. Maitake taste is described as strong and earthy.
• You can find maitakes at a local grocery store. They can be stuffed, sautéd or roasted, and there are plenty of maitake recipe options available offering unique ways to use this nutritious mushroom.

Related: Is Mushroom Coffee Even Better than Regular Coffee?

The post Maitake Mushroom Benefits Blood Sugar, Cholesterol, Immunity & More appeared first on Dr. Axe.

If you’ve been paying attention to the natural health market, you may have noticed a new trend emerging. Mushroom powder is popping up in coffee, powders, capsules and even beauty products.

Many are wondering: What is mushroom powder, and why would I want to use it?

Mushrooms are a group of superfoods with impressive nutrition contents and potential health benefits. They’re packed with disease-fighting and energizing nutrients.

That’s exactly why mushrooms are known as the “elixir of life” in Chinese medicine. They’ve been a part of traditional medicine for thousands of years.

What Is Mushroom Powder?

Mushroom powder is exactly what it sounds like — dried mushrooms that are pulverized into powder. You can get many types of mushroom powder, as it can be made with any type of culinary mushroom.

Why bother consuming mushroom powder instead of just adding mushrooms to your diet? In powder form, you get a higher concentration of nutrients.

Types/Varieties

There are several types of mushroom powder available in stores, and you can always dehydrate fresh mushrooms and make your own at home. In stores, you can find powders made with one type of mushrooms and blends that are made of several.

Shiitake

Shiitake is a popular dried mushroom because it’s affordable and contains all eight essential amino acids, along with a fatty acid called linoleic acid.

Shiitake mushrooms are known to increase satiety, making them great for weight loss. They also contain phytonutrients that support heart health and immune function.

Porcini

Porcini powder is commonly used to add flavor to broths, and sometimes it’s added to flour when making bread or pasta. They are known for their floury texture when ground.

Porcini mushrooms are rich in antioxidants, including beta-carotene, ascorbic acid and lycopene. They are also a good source of fiber and plant-based protein.

Chaga

Chaga has an earthy flavor, and it contains vanillin, the same compound in vanilla bean.

It is ranked one of the top foods for oxygen radical absorbent capacity. That means that it’s an excellent source of antioxidants and can therefore help in the prevention of disease.

Chaga mushroom works as an inflammation reducer, and eating them may even improve physical endurance.

Lion’s Mane

Lion’s mane is known as a nootropic food because of its brain-boosting properties. You’ll often see it in powdered form and added to mushroom coffee.

Research suggests that it may slow down cell degeneration in the brain, helping fight diseases like Alzheimer’s. Lion’s mane also supports heart and digestive health because of its anti-inflammatory effects.

Reishi

Reishi mushroom has been valued in Chinese medicine for thousands of years. It goes by the nickname “king of mushrooms” and serves as an adaptogenic herb that helps the body deal with the negative effects of stress.

These mushrooms are jam-packed with antioxidants and health-promoting compounds, like polysaccharides. Reishi powder is used to balance hormones, promote heart health and stabilize blood sugar levels.

Cordyceps

Cordyceps are a staple in holistic medicine and known as a superstar supplement that’s used to enhance athletic performance, reduce inflammation and promote cardiovascular health. They feature anti-inflammatory compounds and antioxidants that help fight disease, boost immune function and slow aging.

Mushroom Powder Benefits

1. Enhances Brain Function

Mushroom powder is well-known for its positive affects on brain function. Lion’s mane powder, for instance, has been found to reduce the impact of neurodegenerative diseases by slowing or reversing cell degeneration in the brain.

It is often used to promote mental clarity and focus. It’s a popular supplement for overall cognitive health.

2. Supports Immune Health

Mushrooms often contain polysaccharides, molecules that have immunomodulatory effects and may enhance immune system function.

Research on chaga shows that the mushroom can stimulate spleen lymphocytes that work to regulate the immune system and boost the body’s ability to fight off invading viruses and bacteria.

3. Eases Stress

Traditionally, mushrooms have been used to reduce stress and anxiety.

An animal study published in the International Journal of Medicinal Mushrooms found that reishi mushroom powder had significant anti-anxiety activity in mice. Researchers suggest that the anti-anxiety effects may be the result of the phenols and flavonoids present in reishi mushroom.

A study published in BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies suggests that reishi has antidepressant potential and may help ease stress-induced anxiety.

4. Boosts Energy

Shiitake mushroom powder is a great source of vitamin B, so it helps support adrenal function and turn the nutrients you consume into useable energy. Mushroom powder supplements and coffees are often used to boost energy levels and beat brain fog.

Mushrooms are also known to improve exercise performance. The polysaccharides in mushrooms make them excellent foods for physical endurance.

5. Regulates Blood Sugar

Medicinal mushrooms are useful for managing diabetes because they have been shown to improve blood glucose levels and insulin sensitivity.

Research on reishi mushroom, for example, suggests that it’s able to decrease both blood sugar and insulin levels in mice. It was also able to modify enzymes that are involved in blood sugar control.

6. Supports Health Health

Research shows that there’s a strong link between mushrooms and heart health. Cordyceps mushroom powder, for example, could help prevent heart damage and lower LDL cholesterol.

Mushrooms have proven to be organ protectors that benefit the heart by fighting oxidative stress as well.

7. Slows Aging

The impressive antioxidant content in mushroom powder helps fight free radical damage and prevent oxidative stress. Not only does this help prevent disease, but it helps slow the signs of aging and optimizes overall health.

By promoting healthy aging, consuming reishi mushroom powder, for example, is known to boost longevity. Studies reveal that it affects life span extension by reducing oxidative stress and cellular damage throughout the body.

Mushrooms vs. Mushroom Powder

Mushroom powder is made from dehydrated and ground mushrooms. A serving of the power provides a higher nutritional value because it’s much more concentrated.

One scoop of a blended mushroom powder can provide a range of health-promoting nutrients, including a long list of antioxidants, prebiotic fibers, amino acids and micronutrients. In its condensed form, it packs a nutritional punch.

How to Use (Dosage, Recipes)

Here’s the beauty of mushroom powder — it can be added to so many dishes. It has a mild, earthy flavor that blends well in many dishes and can even be added to beverages.

Treat it like a seasoning agent (like mushroom umami seasoning), and add it to scrambled eggs, soups, casseroles, sauces and sautéed vegetables. It offers a great meaty flavor and has a slew of health benefits.

Recently, mushrooms are being used in all sorts of products. You can find coffees, teas and protein powders made with mushroom powder.

Store-bought powders are added to recipes, coffees, hot chocolate blends, drink mixes and smoothies. Generally, two to three teaspoons of powder is consumed once a day to boost overall health. Don’t overdo it, though, and remember that it’s a concentrated version of whole mushrooms so a little goes a long way.

You may be wondering about the taste of mushroom coffee. Surprisingly, it doesn’t taste like mushrooms and serves as a less acidic way to get your morning caffeine.

Want to make your own mushroom powder at home? It’s very easy.

Purchase dehydrated mushrooms, and grind them into a fine powder. Then use the powder in everyday recipes for a boost of antioxidants and nutrients.

For storage, keep the powder in an airtight container.

Risks and Side Effects

A high-quality mushroom powder is considered safe when consumed in normal amounts. Read the product label carefully for dosage directions, and do not exceed the recommended dose.

Some mushrooms work to make the immune system more active, so people with autoimmune diseases should check with their doctors before using mushroom powder supplements.

If you experience any adverse side effects after consuming mushroom supplements, discontinue use immediately.

Conclusion

• Mushroom powder seasoning is gaining popularity because it’s a nutrition powerhouse that can be added to a ton of recipes and beverages. You’ve heard about the health benefits of whole mushrooms, so think about the effects of a concentrated version.
• You can find mushroom powder blends or powders of individual mushrooms, including chaga, reishi, cordyseps, porcini and lion’s mane.
• Mushroom seasoning is jam-packed with antioxidants, protein, fiber, amino acids and micronutrients, including B vitamins.

The post Mushroom Powder: The Versatile Superfood for Coffee & More appeared first on Dr. Axe.

Today, shiitakes can be found in most grocery stores because of their meaty and versatile flavor, but did you know that they’re packed with B vitamins and have the power to fight cancer cells, cardiovascular disease and infections? That’s just a few of shiitake mushroom nutrition benefits.

Why are these small fungi so powerful? It’s because shiitake mushrooms have antiviral, antibacterial and antifungal properties.

They also help control blood sugar levels and reduce inflammation within the body. That’s right — all of these health benefits come from eating a mushroom, and there are a ton of easy ways to incorporate shiitake mushrooms into your diet.

What Are Shiitake Mushrooms?

The shiitake is part of the Lentinula edodes species. It’s an edible mushroom native to East Asia.

Because of its health benefits, it has been considered a medicinal mushroom in traditional herbal medicine, mentioned in books written thousands of years ago.

Shiitakes have a meaty texture and woodsy flavor, making them the perfect addition to soups, salads, meat dishes and stir-fries. They’re often used in Japanese recipes, along with oyster mushrooms and maitake mushrooms.

Shiitake mushrooms contain many chemical compounds that protect your DNA from oxidative damage, which is partly why they’re so beneficial. Lentinan, for example, heals chromosome damage caused by anticancer treatments.

Meanwhile, eritadenine substances from edible mushrooms help reduce cholesterol levels and support cardiovascular health. Researchers at Shizuoka University in Japan even found that eritadenine supplementation significantly decreased plasma cholesterol concentration.

Shiitakes are also unique for a plant because they contain all eight essential amino acids, along with a type of essential fatty acid called linoleic acid. Linoleic acid helps with weight loss and building muscle. It also has bone-building benefits, improves digestion, and reduces food allergies and sensitivities.

Nutrition

As far as nutrition goes, the U.S. Department of Agriculture reports that 100 grams of raw shiitake mushrooms contain about:

• 34 calories
• 6.8 grams carbohydrates
• 2.2 grams protein
• 0.5 gram fat
• 2.5 grams fiber
• 4 milligrams niacin (19 percent DV)
• 1.5 milligrams pantothenic acid (15 percent DV)
• 0.2 milligrams vitamin B6 (15 percent DV)
• 0.2 milligrams riboflavin (13 percent DV)
• 18 international units vitamin D (4 percent DV)
• 0.2 milligrams manganese (12 percent DV)
• 112 milligrams phosphorus (11 percent DV)
• 5.7 micrograms selenium (8 percent DV)
• 0.1 milligrams copper (7 percent DV)
• 1 milligram zinc (7 percent DV)
• 304 milligrams potassium (6 percent DV)
• 20 milligrams magnesium (5 percent DV)
• 0.4 milligrams iron (2 percent DV)

Benefits

1. Fight Obesity

Certain components of the shiitake mushroom have hypolipidaemic (fat-reducing) effects, such as eritadenine and b-glucan, a soluble dietary fiber that’s also found in barley, rye and oats. Studies have reported that b-glucan can increase satiety, reduce food intake, delay nutrition absorption and reduce plasma lipid (fat) levels.

A 2011 study published in the Journal of Obesity examined the effects of shiitake mushrooms on plasma lipid profiles, fat dispositions, energy efficiency and body fat index. Rats were fed a high-fat diet for a six-week period.

Researchers found significant effects of dietary intervention on body weight gain. Rats on a high dose of shiitake mushroom diet (which involved adding mushroom powder to a high-fat diet) had 35 percent lower body weight gains than rats on low and medium shiitake mushroom diets. Rats on the high dose shiitake mushroom diet also had significantly lower total fat masses and had a trend of lower fat accumulation.

The researchers concluded by suggesting that shiitake mushrooms can help prevent body weight gain, fat deposition and plasma triacylglycerols when added to a high-fat diet. This encourages an effort to pursue human studies that examine the efficacy of shiitake mushrooms for the prevention and treatment of obesity and related metabolic disorders.

2. Support Immune Function

Mushrooms have the ability to boost the immune system and combat many diseases by way of providing important vitamins, minerals and enzymes.

A 2015 study published in the Journal of the American College of Nutrition evaluated 52 healthy males and females, aged 21–41 years, to determine if shiitake mushrooms could improve human immune function. The study involved a four-week parallel group trial that involved participants consuming either five or 10 grams of mushrooms daily.

The results suggest that consuming mushrooms improved cell effector function and improved gut immunity. There was also a reduction of inflammation due to mushroom consumption.

3. Destroy Cancer Cells

Research suggests that shiitake mushrooms help fight cancer cells and the lentinan in shiitakes helps heal chromosome damage caused by anticancer treatments. This suggests shiitakes are potential cancer-fighting foods.

A 2006 study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine investigated the potential roles of an ethyl acetate fraction from shiitake mushrooms. The study involved two human breast carcinoma cell lines, one human nonmalignant breast epithelial cell line and two myeloma cell lines.

The results suggest that shiitake mushrooms were able to inhibit growth in tumor cells with their mycochemical value. Shiitake mushroom successfully induced apoptosis, the process of programmed cell death.

4. Support Cardiovascular Health

Shiitake mushrooms have sterol compounds that interfere with the production of cholesterol in the liver. They also contain potent phytonutrients that help keep cells from sticking to blood vessel walls and forming plaque buildup, which maintains healthy blood pressure and improves circulation.

A study conducted at Tohoku University in Japan found that shiitake mushrooms prevented blood pressure increases in hypertensive rats. Shiitake feeding resulted in a decrease in VLDL and HDL cholesterol, whereas maitake mushroom feeding caused a decrease in VLDL cholesterol only.

5. Contain Antimicrobial Properties

A 2011 study at the UCL Eastman Dental Institute in London tested shiitake’s antimicrobial effects on gingivitis, a preventable disease that involves inflammation of the gums due to the buildup of a microbial biofilm at the gingival margin. The effectiveness of shiitake mushrooms was compared to that of the active component in the leading gingivitis mouthwash, containing chlorhexidine.

The total bacterial numbers as well as the numbers of eight key organisms in the oral community were investigated after treatment. The results indicated that shiitake mushroom extract lowered the numbers of some pathogenic organisms without affecting the organisms associated with health, unlike chlorhexidine, which had a limited effect on all organisms.

6. Boost Energy and Brain Function

Shiitake mushrooms are a great source of B vitamins, which help support adrenal function and turn nutrients from food into useable energy. They have proven to help balance hormones naturally and break through brain fog to maintain focus all day long — even improving cognitive performance.

Millions of Americans come up short on one or more of the B vitamins, and that causes energy slumps, unhealthy blood cell and adrenal effects, and foggy thinking. Adding shiitake mushrooms to your diet can give you the extra boost of B vitamins that you need to avoid a deficiency.

7. Provide Vitamin D

Although vitamin D is best obtained from the sun, shiitake mushrooms can also provide a decent amount of this essential vitamin.

Vitamin D is important for bone health as well as reducing the risk of heart disease, diabetes, autoimmune diseases and some types of cancer. It’s vital for the absorption and metabolism of calcium and phosphorus, too.

Research indicates that getting ample supply of vitamin D also helps regulate and support the immune system, maintain healthy body weight, maintain brain function as you age, reduce the severity of asthma symptoms, reduce the risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis in women, and reduce the risk of developing multiple sclerosis. Mushrooms, as well as wild-caught salmon, raw dairy and eggs, are the best vitamin D-rich foods.

8. Promote Skin Health

When selenium is taken with vitamins A and E, it can help reduce the severity of acne and the scarring that can occur afterward. A hundred grams of shiitake mushrooms contain 5.7 milligrams of selenium, which is 8 percent of your daily value. That means shiitake mushrooms can act as a natural acne treatment.

In an open trial, 29 patients were given 0.2 milligrams of selenium and 10 milligrams of tocopheryl succinate for their acne twice daily for six to 12 weeks. After treatment, the patients noticed positive results. The zinc in shiitake mushrooms also promotes immune function and reduces buildup of DHT to improve skin healing.

9. Support Digestive and Gut Health

Studies indicate that the fibers found in shiitake mushrooms may support digestive and gut health. They are known to inhibit inflammation in the gut, which is critical for maintaining a healthy digestive system.

As we know, gut health is also associated with immune system health and mental wellness. It’s essential that we keep inflammation in the digestive tract at bay to achieve optimal health.

Shiitake Mushrooms vs. Other Mushrooms

How does the shiitake stack up with other mushrooms? Let’s take a quick snapshot.

• Shiitake: Fights cancer cells and infectious disease, boosts the immune system, promotes brain function, and serves as a source of B vitamins.
• Maitake: Can help improve the health of AIDS patients and regulates blood sugar levels of diabetics. May reduce hypertension and boosts the immune system.
• Reishi: Fights inflammation, liver disease, fatigue, tumor growth and cancer. Improves skin disorders, and soothes digestive problems, stomach ulcers and leaky gut syndrome.
• Cordyceps: Has anti-aging effects and boosts immune function. Improves stamina and athletic performance, acts as a natural aphrodisiac, fights diabetes, and improves liver function.

How to Cook

The shiitake is a versatile food that can be incorporated into a variety of dishes. You can buy these mushrooms raw, cooked or dried.

Because they’re becoming more popular due to their nutritional value, you can find shiitake mushrooms at most grocery stores.

When buying your shiitakes, look for mushrooms that are firm and plump. Avoid mushrooms that look slimy or wrinkled — those aren’t fresh.

Storing fresh mushrooms in the refrigerator in a closed bag or container with a lid keeps them fresh for about a week. If you use dried mushrooms, keep them in a sealed bag and store them in the refrigerator or freezer, where they can stay fresh for up to year.

When preparing shiitake mushrooms, you want to cut off the stems because they’re too woody to eat, but you don’t have to throw them out. Add the stems to a veggie stock to soak up all of those nutrients.

Make sure to rinse the mushrooms thoroughly. They can be placed in a bowl of hot water for about 10 minutes to eliminate any residue and then rinsed.

Now you’re ready to add them to your breakfast, lunch or dinner. Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Add them to an omelet with veggies. Try this delicious Veggie Omelet Recipe. You can even add avocado to the top for some healthy fats.
• Create a brown rice or quinoa bowl with shiitake mushrooms, garlic, grated lemon zest and extra-virgin olive oil.
• Use shiitake mushrooms in this Green Bean Casserole Recipe.
• Prepare lettuce or collard green wraps with a mixture of organic ground turkey, shiitake mushrooms and chestnuts.
• Make a hearty spinach and shiitake mushroom quiche.
• Create a flavorful sauce with marsala wine, shiitakes and ghee. Try this Chicken Marsala Recipe.
• Make a delicious soup by combining peeled shrimp, shiitake mushrooms, fresh ginger, cilantro, lime juice, chicken stock and coconut milk.
• Use shiitakes in this healthy Mushroom Soup Recipe.
• Create a stir-fry with shiitake mushrooms, lots of veggies and your favorite source of protein, like shrimp, chicken or beef.
• Try this Miso Soup Recipe with Mushrooms.

Risks and Side Effects

Mushrooms contain a moderate amount of purines, a chemical compound that’s broken down into uric acid. A diet rich in purines may raise uric acid levels in the body, which sometimes leads to gout.

If you experience the symptoms of gout, limiting your purine intake may be helpful.

Conclusion

• Shiitakes are one of the most popular cultivated varieties of specialty mushrooms.
• Shiitake mushrooms are high in B vitamins, and they serve as a food source of vitamin D.
• Some shiitake health benefits include the ability to aid weight loss, support cardiovascular health, fight cancer cells, improve energy levels and brain function, reduce inflammation, and support the immune system.
• Shiitake mushrooms have a woodsy flavor and meaty texture. They can be purchased dried, cooked or raw.
• Add shiitakes to soups, salads, meat dishes, stir-fries and omelets.

The post Shiitake Mushrooms: 9 Scientifically Proven Benefits You Need to Know About appeared first on Dr. Axe.

This medicinal mushroom has been a staple in holistic medicine for centuries and has long been revered for its potent anti-aging, health-promoting properties. In recent years, research on the cordyceps mushroom has turned up even more impressive findings, reporting that this superstar supplement can also enhance athletic performance, promote heart health and decrease inflammation to keep you feeling your best.

Best of all, there’s no need to go mushroom foraging to take advantage of the powerful benefits that the cordyceps mushroom has to offer. Widely available in powder, capsule and tablet form, it’s quick and convenient to reap the rewards of this medicinal mushroom.

Ready to learn more? Keep reading to find out how the cordyceps mushroom can impact your health and why you may want to consider adding it to your daily routine.

What Are Cordyceps?

Prized for their natural ability to fight free radicals, infections and inflammation, these are impressive disease-fighting mushrooms that have been used for centuries to reduce symptoms of respiratory disorders, coughs, colds, liver damage and much more. As a true “superfood,” the cordyceps mushroom can slow the effects of aging and stress, help keep the body free from disease and boost energy levels to keep you going all day long.

Cordyceps fungus is sometimes called the caterpillar fungus. It’s parasitic in nature because it grows on a type of caterpillar and then winds up eating its own host!

The base of the mushroom forms from the insect’s larva and is dark brown to black, attaching itself to the organism and growing about six inches long. Once it fully matures, it actually consumes more than 90 percent of the infected insect.

These shrooms then swell up and enlarge to become about 300–500 milligrams in weight.

The first people to discover the many benefits of cordyceps initially observed animals eating the wild fungus and growing strong in the process. Farmers and herders began to use the fungus in powder form to make tonics and teas.

Some of the first uses for these tonics were increasing milk production and improving reproductive capacity of livestock. Later on, people began drying cordyceps in sunlight to preserve their potent benefits.

It’s believed that the many anti-inflammatory benefits of cordyceps stem from their ability to positively affect the immune system, fighting oxidative stress and stimulating protective cells that keep the body free from mutations and infections. In vitro studies have found that cordyceps can act like natural cancer treatments in some cases, preventing the growth of tumors and cancer cells.

Considered a type of natural “immuno-potentiating drug,” coryceps supplements are often used to enhance immunity and optimize health. They can also help control autoimmune disorders, minimize excessive inflammation and prevent tissue damage while speeding up healing time.

Additionally, research shows that cordyceps can act as mild stimulants or “adaptogen herbs,” fighting stress and fatigue while also naturally increasing energy levels.

Benefits

1. Increases Immune Function

Some studies suggest that consuming cordyceps benefits immune function and can help optimize the health of the cardiovascular, respiratory, endocrine and reproductive systems. This is because they contain anti-inflammatory compounds like polysaccharides, modified nucleosides and cyclosporines.

Taking cordyceps may be especially beneficial in the treatment of inflammatory-related conditions, such as Crohn’s disease, arthritis, leaky gut and asthma. In fact, one animal model conducted by the Chung Shan Medical University Hospital showed that they were effective at reducing inflammation in the airways of mice, potentially aiding in the treatment of asthma.

2. Slows Aging and Promotes Mental Clarity

Cordyceps are jam-packed with antioxidants that can help fight free radical damage, prevent oxidative stress and help slow the signs of aging to optimize your health. Although research on the anti-aging effects of this medicinal mushroom is primarily limited to animal studies, research shows that it can boost brain function, enhance memory and even extend longevity.

For example, one animal model in the journal Phytotherapy Research showed that taking cordyceps extract increased the activity of antioxidants like superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase in the blood. Not only that, but it also helped boost brain power and enhance sexual function in aging rats.

Similarly, another animal study out of China found that administering cordyceps extract to fruit flies significantly prolonged their life spans by blocking oxidative stress to the cells, confirming their potent anti-aging properties.

3. Improves Athletic Performance

A 2010 study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine demonstrated that supplementation with Cs-4 (Cordyceps sinensis) improved exercise performance and contributed to overall markers of wellness in older adults. Considered an energizing adaptogen like other superfood herbs such as maca or cacao, cordyceps are often used to help fight fatigue, treat muscle aches and prevent weakness.

Several studies suggest that they can boost athletic performance — improving physical abilities, endurance and stamina — partially because they boost the body’s supply of ATP, one of the primary sources of energy during exercise. Cordyceps contain adenosine, a type of nucleic acid that is needed to make ATP, an “energy carrier” that is depleted in the muscles during physical activity.

4. Enhances Sexual Function

Traditionally, people of both sexes took tonics made from cordyceps to enhance libido and improve reproductive function. Based on animal models, it appears that cordyceps supplements can help the body utilize oxygen more efficiently and improve blood flow, which is important for physical health and sexual function.

Improved endurance, increased energy and lower levels of inflammation are several other reasons that cordyceps may improve fertility and libido. Thus, they may be used as a natural treatment for infertility as well as a natural remedy for impotence.

5. Regulates Blood Sugar Levels

Two active constituents in cordyceps, d-mannitol cordycepin and 3’-deoxyadenosine, are partially responsible for various physiological actions that help control insulin and blood sugar levels. In animal models, cordyceps supplements have helped combat high blood sugar levels while also reducing insulin levels to protect against insulin resistance.

6. Supports Heart Health

Recent research has found a strong link between cordyceps and heart health, with studies showing that they could help protect the heart against damage and lower cholesterol levels to prevent coronary heart disease. For instance, one animal study in Acta Pharmacologica Sinica showed that cordyceps extract helped reduce damage to the heart and liver in rats with kidney disease.

Plus, other research in animals shows that cordyceps could help lower levels of bad LDL cholesterol to prevent arteriosclerosis, a condition characterized by plaque buildup in the arteries and an increased risk of heart attack and stroke. Other animal models show that they may also reduce high triglycerides, another major risk factor for heart disease.

7. May Help Fight Cancer Cells

Several promising in vitro studies have found that cordyceps could possess powerful anti-cancer properties and may help block the growth and spread of several different types of cancer. In particular, in vitro studies show that cordyceps extract may be effective at reducing the growth of liver, lung and colorectal cancer cells.

However, the anti-cancer effects of cordyceps extend beyond stopping cancer growth. Animal studies also show that these medicinal mushrooms could reduce the risk of side effects caused by cancer treatment, including leukopenia, a condition sometimes caused by chemotherapy or radiation that results in a decrease in the amount of white blood cells in the body and a higher risk of infection and illness.

8. Combats Stress and Supports Mental Health

Research published in journal Molecules examined the many therapeutic effects of these medicinal mushrooms. What researchers found was that cordyceps can act as nutraceuticals that can support mental health by both fighting environmental stress and oxidative stress in the body.

9. Promotes Restful Sleep

A study out of Asia looked at the effects of cordycepin, which naturally occurs in cordyceps, to see if it’d help increase natural sleep in rats. Researchers determined that cordycepin increases nonrapid eye movement sleep in rats.

That’s not all. According to the authors, “… this experiment can provide basic evidence that cordycepin may be helpful for sleep-disturbed subjects.”

Nutrition

The cordyceps mushroom is loaded with a wide array of antioxidants, enzymes and vitamins that contribute to its healing effects. Some of the compounds that have been identified in the cordyceps nutrition profile include:

• Cordycepin
• Cordycepic acid
• N-acetylgalactosamine
• Adenosine
• Ergosterol and ergosteryl esters
• Bioxanthracenes
• Hypoxanthine
• Acid deoxyribonuclease
• Superoxide dismutase
• Protease
• Dipicolinic acid
• Lectin

History

Cordyceps are considered a time-honored superfood that first originated in Traditional Chinese Medicine at least 5,000 years ago. Their medicinal uses were described in old Chinese medical books, and traditional holistic healers have been using them to treat dozens of diseases without the use of chemical medications for generations.

Local folk healers were said to use cordyceps either alone or in combination with other TCM herbal treatments to fight more than 20 different ailments, ranging from bronchitis to heart disease.

Cordyceps and other medicinal plants have long been used in Chinese, Christian and Hindu religious ceremonies and are believed to be linked to longevity and immortality. In Ayurvedic medicine, for example, mushrooms are said to be beneficial for enhancing “vigor and vitality.”

Traditional healers in Sikkim recommended medicinal mushrooms “for all illnesses as a tonic, because they claimed that it improved energy, appetite, stamina, libido, endurance, and sleeping patterns.”

Medicinal mushrooms have been used for thousands of years to treat a wide variety of ailments. Cordyceps mushrooms, in particular, have an extensive history in some parts of Asia and have long been used medicinally in these areas.

Today, they can be found around the world but are especially common in North America, Asia and Europe.

The name “cordyceps” actually comes from the Latin words “cord,” meaning club and “ceps,” meaning head. Cordyceps is actually the name of a genus of fungi, but there are an estimated 400 species within the genus.

Some of the most notable species include Cordyceps sinensis, Cordyceps militaris and Cordyceps ophioglossoides.

Although they have long been known for its healing effects in many forms of traditional medicine, recent research has begun to confirm the health-promoting properties of these powerful mushrooms. In fact, studies show that cordyceps may have anti-cancer, anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory activities and can be beneficial in treating a long list of health concerns.

Cordyceps vs. Reishi vs. Lion’s Mane

Along with other mushrooms like the chaga mushroom and turkey tail mushroom, cordyceps, reishi and lion’s mane are three of the most popular medicinal mushrooms on the market. That said, there are plenty of similarities between these three unique types of mushrooms as well as several things that set them apart.

Reishi mushrooms have been associated with an extensive list of health benefits, ranging from improved liver function to enhanced immunity in human and animal studies. Available in extract, capsule, tablet and powder form, reishi mushrooms are often used as a natural remedy to help boost health and increase antioxidant intake.

While both reishi and cordyceps mushrooms are most commonly found in supplement form, lion’s mane is an edible mushroom that can be purchased from specialty grocery stores and used to bump up the benefits of your favorite recipes. Like other types of medicinal mushrooms, lion’s mane mushroom is high in inflammation-busting antioxidants and can help maximize immunity to support better health.

It’s also been shown to improve brain function and protect against stomach ulcers in animal models.

Cordyceps vs. Ginseng

Both used throughout history for their medicinal properties, ginseng and cordyceps are two powerful adaptogens that can bring big benefits when it comes to your health.

Like cordyceps, ginseng has been linked to improved immunity, reduced cancer cell growth, better blood sugar levels and enhanced sexual function. There are several different types of ginseng, each offering a unique set of health benefits.

However, there are several differences that set these two superfoods apart. While cordyceps are a type of mushroom that have long been harvested in China, ginseng is a root belonging to the Panax genus of plants.

Because they belong to entirely different families of plants, ginseng contains different nutrients and chemical components, including ginsenosides, which are the active compound in ginseng that are responsible for many of its health benefits.

Additionally, although there is definitely some overlap in terms of health benefits, ginseng has been linked to other health-promoting properties, including relief from menopause symptoms and increased weight loss in some human and animal studies.

How to Use

For many decades, cordyceps fungus was difficult to obtain, expensive and not widely used. Today, wild cordyceps are still not easy to come by, but luckily scientists have figured out how to reproduce them synthetically in the lab, making them much more widely available to the public.

Supplements are now available in most health food stores and online retailers at much more affordable prices and appear to offer the same benefits as the wild varieties. Another advantage of growing controlled species of cordyceps fungi is being able to control contamination, such as harmful bacteria and heavy metals.

Cordyceps are mostly found in capsule, powder and tablet form. Capsules or tablets can be a quick and convenient way to get in your daily dose, while opting for cordyceps powder can also allow you to experiment and add cordyceps into some of your favorite recipes.

Cordyceps extract and powder are most often added to beverages like tea, coffee, smoothies and shakes, but with a little creativity, the potential cordyceps uses are limitless.

It’s now possible to purchase cordyceps capsules, powders and tablets from most health food stores and online. Many people take them by mouth, but some even like to open the capsules and use the powder in teas, soups and stews, like how they were traditionally taken in China for hundreds of years.

Cordyceps dosage depends on the reason they are being used, but most studies in humans have used 1,000–3,000 milligrams per day, which doesn’t seem to be associated with any common side effects. Follow the dosage advice listed on your cordyceps supplement, or speak with an herbalist about treating a specific condition.

You don’t necessarily need to take them every day if you’re only trying to prevent future illnesses and boost your immune system. In that case, once or twice a week with a lower dose works well.

Recipes

There are plenty of delicious ways to add cordyceps into your routine and take advantage of the unique health benefits that they have to offer. Here are a few tasty recipes to get you started:

• Cinnamon Vanilla Cordyceps Latte
• Cordyceps Broth
• Power-Up Morning Cordyceps Tonic
• Chocolate Raspberry Bars with Cordyceps
• Cordyceps Flower Chicken Soup

Risks and Side Effects

Cordyceps are considered safe for most people, but there are some potential cordyceps side effects and interactions to be aware of, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking certain medications.

If you’re pregnant or breast-feeding, you likely want to steer clear of taking cordyceps or check with your doctor before starting supplementation. Unfortunately, cordyceps human studies looking at the effects on pregnancy are lacking, so stay on the safe side to avoid negative side effects.

For anyone with a known autoimmune disease, such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis or multiple sclerosis, some doctors warn that cordyceps might worsen the problem. Because they stimulate the immune system, cordyceps may interfere with medications for these diseases or over-activate certain immune cells, so talk to your doctor before taking them.

The same warning goes for anyone with a known bleeding or blood clot disorder since medical mushrooms can sometimes interfere with proper blood clotting. You also should not take cordyceps two weeks before any scheduled surgery, due to the influence on blood clotting.

Final Thoughts

• Cordyceps are a type of mushroom that have been used medicinally for centuries and are associated with many beneficial effects on health.
• Some of the potential cordyceps benefits include improved immunity and heart health, slowed aging, enhanced athletic performance and sexual function, better blood sugar levels, and protection against cancer cell growth and development.
• Available primarily in capsule, tablet and powder form, the exact mushroom dosage can vary based on the specific type of supplement you’re using, but most studies have used between 1,000–3,000 milligrams daily.
• Although safe for use in most people, people with autoimmune disorders and blood clot disorders should discuss with their doctors before starting supplementation. Additionally, because cordyceps fungus human studies looking at the effects on pregnancy are limited, women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should limit use as well.
• When paired with a nutritious diet, active lifestyle and a rotation of other medicinal mushrooms, adding these mushrooms to your routine can bring some serious health benefits in the long run.

The post Cordyceps Benefits for Anti-Aging, Sleep, Exercise Performance & More appeared first on Dr. Axe.

The reishi mushroom is an edible type of medicinal fungus that has been used for its healing abilities for thousands of years and fits the definition of a true superfood. Also known as Ling Zhi in Chinese, these mushrooms are anti-inflammatory and tied to longevity, better immune function and mental clarity, earning them the nickname “king of mushrooms.”

Throughout history in holistic medicine, reishi mushrooms have been considered adaptogenic herbs. This means they help your body deal with the negative effects of stress, such as increased inflammation, depleted energy levels, damaged blood vessels and various types of hormonal imbalances.

Studies have repeatedly shown that reishi mushrooms have antioxidant abilities that allow them to strengthen the body’s defenses against cancer, autoimmune conditions, heart disease, allergies, infections and more.

Believe it or not, this all just skims the surface of the health benefits that reishi mushrooms have to offer.

Ready to learn more? Let’s take a look at why you should consider adding this incredible medicinal mushroom into your routine and what reishi mushrooms health benefits can do for you.

What Are Reishi Mushrooms?

What is reishi? What is ganoderma?

Like other disease-fighting mushrooms, reishi mushrooms are a type of fungus that grow outdoors.

They’re native to several parts of Asia, including China, Korea and Japan. While they’re edible and often described as bitter-tasting with a tough texture, you’re much more likely to find them in supplement, tincture or powder form.

Reishi mushrooms, also known by their scientific name Ganoderma lucidum, grow above ground and produce “a fruiting body” along with connective strands (called mycelium), which are turned into an herbal medicines, tinctures, teas, powders and extracts.

Also known as lingzhi mushroom, you may be surprised to learn just how long lingzhi mushroom benefits have been utilized.

For most of history in Traditional Chinese Medicine, fully grown reishi mushrooms were dried, cut into slices, boiled in hot water and then steeped to make a healing tea/soup. Today, manufacturers of reishi products use a processing technique in which reishi is boiled multiple times at a high pressure, allowing the active ingredients to be extracted to form a tincture.

Thanks to the concentrated compounds that these mushrooms contain, potential reishi mushroom benefits include protection against tumor formation, improved liver function, better heart health, enhanced blood sugar control, and a reduced risk of asthma, allergies and infection.

How the Reishi Mushroom Works

Over the past several decades, dozens of different studies conducted in Japan, China, the U.S. and the U.K. have demonstrated that reishi mushrooms are capable of offering protection against numerous diseases or illnesses, including:

• inflammation
• fatigue (including chronic fatigue syndrome)
• frequent infections (urinary tract, bronchitis, respiratory infections, etc.)
• liver disease
• food allergies and asthma
• digestive problems, stomach ulcers and leaky gut syndrome
• tumor growth and cancer
• skin disorders
• autoimmune disorders
• diabetes
• viruses, including the flu, HIV/AIDS or hepatitis
• heart disease, hypertension, high blood pressure and high cholesterol
• sleep disorders and insomnia
• anxiety and depression

Because they work as an “immune modulator,” reishi mushrooms can help restore hormonal balance, bring the body back to homeostasis and regulate activity of the immune system. This can help fight tumors and cancerous cells.

Research shows that reishi mushrooms act as a normalizing substance, regulating various cellular functions and systems, including the endocrine (hormonal), immune, cardiovascular, central nervous and digestive systems.

One of the biggest reishi benefits is that it’s capable of doing so much, yet produces hardly any side effects. Reishi mushrooms are much less toxic than traditional medications as well.

In fact, most people report a quick improvements in their energy levels, mental focus and mood while also experiencing a reduction in aches, pains, allergies, digestive issues and infections.

The secret behind their healing potential? The various active ingredients that the reishi mushroom contains account for this.

These ingredients include complex sugars known as beta-glucans, plant sterols that act as precursors to hormones in the body, polysaccharides that fight cancer cell development and acidic substances called triterpenes that turn off the body’s response to allergies.

Recent findings suggest that reishi mushrooms can lower inflammation and increase the release of natural killer cells, which work to remove various types of mutated cells from the body. This makes the reishi mushroom ideal for preventing heart disease and working as a natural cancer treatment.

Some of the ways that reishi mushrooms work to promote better health include:

• activating cytotoxic receptors (NKG2D/NCR)
• inhibiting cell proliferation
• suppressing vascular endothelial growth factor
• increasing plasma antioxidant capacity
• enhancing immune response
• converting excess testosterone to dihydrotestosterone

Health Benefits

1. Contains Powerful Anti-Cancer Properties

Just like other anti-inflammatory foods, reishi mushrooms are packed with important nutrients, including antioxidants, beta-glucans and amino acids. Researchers believe that some of the most beneficial components of the reishi mushroom are its polysaccharides.

These are water-soluble types of nutrient found in carbohydrate foods that are known to have anti-tumor abilities.

Polysaccharides, which also found in other beneficial plant foods like sweet potatoes or beets, are immune-modulating substances. They are compounds that help reishi mushrooms protect the DNA and block cell mutations while preserving healthy cells in the body.

According to some studies, certain medicinal mushrooms help fight cancer because polysaccharides have important biological benefits, including antioxidant, neuro-protective, radio-protective, anti-diabetes, anti-osteoporosis and anti-fatigue abilities.

Additionally, laboratory tests demonstrate that the triterpenes found in reishi mushrooms may also have cancer-fighting properties. This is one reason why brightly colored or bitter-tasting, antioxidant-rich foods like pumpkin, berries and black rice have a reputation for promoting health.

Triterpene compounds seem to inhibit tumor formation and metastases by limiting the attachment of cancerous cells to endothelial cells. Beta-glucans can also help fight off cancer formation by blocking the growth and spread of cancer cells and increasing the activity of the immune system.

Studies have turned up promising results on the link between the reishi mushroom and cancer prevention. It has been successfully used to help fight cancer of the breasts, ovaries, prostate, liver and lungs in in-vitro studies, sometimes in combination with other treatments.

Research in cancer patients suggests that reishi has antiproliferative and chemopreventive effects. It helps alleviate side effects of chemotherapy, like low immunity and nausea, and potentially enhances the efficacy of radiotherapy.

All this makes the reishi mushroom one of the most powerful cancer-fighting foods available and shows reishi mushroom powder benefits include supporting immunity to combat chronic disease.

2. Improves Liver Function

The liver is one of the most vital organs in the body. It is responsible for aiding in detoxification and helping clean, process, store and circulate healthy blood and nutrients.

Reishi mushrooms work as adaptogens to help improve liver function and prevent liver disease. They allow your body to flush out toxins and bacteria more efficiently and improve immunity against diseases that can develop over time.

A 2013 study published in the International Journal of Medicinal Mushrooms found that reishi induces hepatoprotective effects on acute liver injury because it contains antioxidant properties and fights harmful immune responses that slow down liver function — adding to list of benefits of reishi mushrooms.

3. Promotes Heart Health

The triterpenes found in the reishi mushroom may have blood pressure-lowering abilities as well as benefits for blood-clotting and cholesterol. This is likely because they help lower inflammation within blood vessels and arteries while also restoring hormonal balance.

High blood pressure and high cholesterol can sometimes be caused by hormonal issues, including thyroid disorders or high amounts of stress. Reishi mushrooms help restore optimal hormonal levels to strengthen the cardiovascular system.

In addition to lowering blood pressure, reishi mushroom extract can improve overall circulation, lower inflammation that worsens heart problems and prevent clogged arteries by keeping cholesterol under control — yet another one of the impressive reishi health benefits.

4. Balances Hormone Levels

Reishi mushrooms work as adaptogens. They can help your body cope with stress more efficiently and help regulate hormone levels to optimize your health.

Although research is currently limited to mostly animal models, some studies indicate that reishi mushroom extract could help normalize levels of certain receptor hormones, which may be beneficial in the treatment of cancer.

Other studies show that it can protect and positively impact the endocrine system, which encompasses the glands throughout the body that are responsible for the production of hormones. This could have far-reaching effects on many aspects of health, as the endocrine system has a direct impact on metabolism, growth, sleep, mood and sexual function.

5. Stabilizes Blood Sugar

Sustaining high levels of blood sugar can bring detrimental effects to overall health, causing symptoms like fatigue, unintentional weight loss and frequent urination. Some research shows that reishi mushrooms may have anti-diabetic properties, helping to maintain normal blood sugar levels to prevent adverse side effects.

For example, one review out of Taiwan showed that reishi mushrooms were able to decrease levels of both blood sugar and insulin in mice. They also helped modify levels of certain enzymes involved in blood sugar control and improved the way that the body uses insulin to transport sugar from the bloodstream to the tissues to be used as fuel.

6. Fights Allergies and Asthma

Triterpenes are active ingredients in reishi mushrooms. They are a type of ganoderic acid tied to a reduction in allergies and histamine reactions associated with asthma.

For this reason, the reishi mushroom is often used as a safe and effective asthma natural remedy. Triterpenes are capable of lowering allergic reactions because of the way they affect the immune system, strengthen the digestive organs, protect the gut lining, lower inflammation, inhibit a histamine release, improve oxygen utilization and improve liver functions.

7. Protects Against Infections and Viruses

Reishi mushrooms are considered natural antiviral, antibacterial and antifungal substances thanks to the active compounds that they contain. For example, aside from relieving allergies, triterpenes offer protection against microbial, viral and fungal infections.

Triterpenes can be found in many plant foods that taste somewhat bitter, a sign that they’re protective in nature and defend the plant against predators.

Because reishi mushrooms can improve blood circulation and lower inflammation, they can help resolve infections more quickly, reduce pain and fight fatigue. Reishi mushrooms have been used to help treat symptoms and underlying causes of urinary tract infections, hepatitis and even HIV/AIDS, among other reishi mushrooms benefits.

Nutrition

In supplement form, reishi mushrooms typically contain little to no calories and only a small amount of dietary fiber and protein. However, the true reishi mushroom health benefits come from the ingredients that aren’t listed on the nutrition label.

In particular, reishi mushrooms are jam-packed with antioxidants and health-promoting compounds, such as polysaccharides and triterpenes. These powerful compounds are linked to a number of health benefits and have been shown to account for many of the anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer and anti-diabetic properties of the reishi mushroom.

Many forms of holistic medicine take advantage of the full scope of health benefits of reishi mushroom and use it to treat a variety of ailments.

Reishi mushrooms are an especially common ingredient in Traditional Chinese Medicine and have been used as a staple for thousands of years. They are believed to nourish the heart, preserve liver health, slow aging, and enhance vitality, stamina and strength.

They’re also said to promote calmness and relaxation and often used to supplement spiritual practices.

Comparisons

Are mushrooms good for you? If you’ve ever had any doubts, take a look at any of the powerful nutrients found in of any of these medicinal mushrooms and you’re bound to be a believer in the many health benefits of mushrooms, whether we’re talking mushroom reishi, turkey tail or more.

Here’s a quick breakdown of how the reishi mushroom compares to other popular varieties of medicinal mushrooms:

• Reishi Mushroom: balances hormone levels, improves heart and liver function, stabilizes blood sugar levels, and fights allergies, asthma and infection
• Turkey Tail Mushroom: feeds the beneficial bacteria in your gut, prevents infections and combats cancer cells
• Lion’s Mane Mushroom: protects brain function, relieves inflammation, preserves digestive health and fights free radical formation
• Chaga Mushroom: enhances endurance, reduces inflammation, stimulates immune function and contains antiviral properties
• Shiitake Mushroom: supports immunity, fights cancer cells, promotes skin health and supplies a hearty dose of important B vitamins to maintain energy levels

Additionally, different mushroom varieties have distinct differences in the ways that they are used and enjoyed. For example, reishi, turkey tail and chaga are all most often found in supplement form, while lion’s mane and shiitake are more palatable and can be swapped in for other mushrooms in your favorite recipes.

How to Use

Wondering where to buy reishi mushroom supplements? Thanks to their growing popularity, you’re likely to come across reishi mushroom powder, capsule or extract supplements in health food stores or online.

It’s important to always read the directions carefully since the proper reishi mushroom dose can vary depending on how concentrated the product is. The likelihood of having side effects can increase when you take too much.

If you feel a little more adventurous, you can also try your hand at mushroom foraging. You can typically find reishi mushrooms growing in warm regions throughout Asia, the Southeastern United States, Southern Europe and the South Pacific.

If you have a green thumb, you can also grow the red reishi mushroom at home by purchasing reishi spawn online.

When purchasing reishi, ideally look for products that are certified pure, produced in Asian countries, and in extract or essence form. There are many different types of reishi products available, all of which have different levels of active ingredients that are affected by factors including the plant’s mother fungi, the growing conditions and the processing method used to extract the reishi.

Products from Japan are considered to be some of the purest and are usually cultivated using techniques that preserve the delicate compounds in reishi. Check the product’s labeling for the species name (Ganoderma lucidum), extract ratio, country of origin and if any fillers are added.

Reishi mushrooms are often said to be most effective if you take them in the morning on an empty stomach. Drinking water along with reishi seems to help them absorb best, as does pairing them with vitamin C foods, which can ensure proper absorption of the active ingredients and antioxidants.

You can also try using them to brew a cup of reishi mushroom tea or Ganoderma coffee to start your morning on the right foot.

Recipes

There are limitless ways to add reishi into your diet and reap the multitude of rewards that it has to offer. Here are a few simple and delicious recipes to get you started, including reishi tea:

• Reishi Ginger Broth
• Reishi Mushroom Tea
• Reishi Mushroom Soup with Carrots and Kale
• Cacao Reishi Green Smoothie
• Reishi Baby Bella Bolognese

Supplements and Dosage

The recommended reishi mushroom dosage can vary based on the type of supplement that you choose to use. When eaten fresh, the dosage can range between 25–100 grams daily.

Conversely, reishi mushroom capsules, powders and extract forms contain more concentrated doses. Ganoderma extract and other supplements require smaller amounts to achieve the same results.

Most studies have found that two to nine grams of mushroom extract in the form of reishi mushroom powder, capsules or tinctures is enough to positively impact health. However, supplements can contain varying amounts of reishi extract, so it’s best to follow the instructions on your specific dosage listed on your supplement to make sure you get the right amount.

For example, you can take a one-gram reishi tablet once or twice a day, and alway make sure your reishi mushroom tablet is made from organic reishi and contains to unnatural, unhealthy ingredients.

History

The use of the reishi mushroom was first recorded over 2,000 years ago. It was frequently referred to as the “Mushroom of Immortality” in ancient texts. Around 200–250 C.E., the “Divine Farmer’s Classic of Pharmaceutics” categorized different varieties of mushrooms based on which part of the body they benefited.

According to the text:

Chi Zhi (Ganoderma rubra) is bitter and balanced. It mainly treats binding in the chest, boosts the heart qi, supplements the center, sharpens the wits, and [causes people] not to forget [i.e., improves the memory]. Protracted taking may make the body light, prevent senility, and prolong life so as to make one an immortal. Its other name is Dan Zhi (Cinnabar Ganoderma). It grows in mountains and valleys.

Today, the reishi mushroom is recognized around the world for its powerful health benefits and medicinal properties. As more and more research is released confirming the potent effect that it can have on overall health, it has joined the ranks of other medicinal mushrooms like the chaga mushroom and the portobello mushroom, cementing its status as a true powerhouse of nutrition.

Risks and Side Effects

Reishi mushrooms have been used for thousands of years in all kinds of patients, and very few side effects have ever been recorded. Reishi is classified as “Class 1: Herbs that can be safely consumed when used appropriately.”

On occasion, some mild digestive upset and skin rashes may occur, but these side effects seem to go away and are typically only a threat in sensitive people with impaired immune systems.

While reishi mushrooms are safe, effective and well-tolerated by most people, there are some instances when you want to talk to your doctor before using them on your own. According to studies, the reishi mushroom appears to be safe for adults when taken by mouth in appropriate doses for up to one year.

It’s possible for powdered forms of reishi to be stronger or contaminated in some rare cases, which can increase the risk for toxicity, so use caution and purchase reishi powder from a reputable company to get the best reishi powder benefits.

If you notice any of the following reishi mushroom side effects, discontinue use immediately and visit your doctor to make sure you’re not having an allergic reaction or experiencing liver toxicity:

• dryness of the mouth
• dry or itchy throat
• itchiness in the nasal area
• strong indigestion, heartburn or stomach upset
• nosebleeds
• bloody stool
• skin rashes

If you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, it’s best to avoid reishi mushrooms unless under medical supervision. There hasn’t been much research done on the safety and long-term effects for these populations.

Additionally, if you have had any type of bleeding disorder; recently underwent surgery; take blood pressure medications, blood thinners, chemotherapy drugs or immunosuppressant medications; or have trouble with blood clotting, don’t take reishi mushrooms since they can increase blood pressure, impact blood clotting and increase the risk for bleeding.

Final Thoughts

• The reishi mushroom is a powerful medicinal mushroom that comes with a long list of potential health benefits.
• A few of the top perks that make the reishi mushroom benefits list include improved liver and heart health; protection against allergies, asthma and infections; and cancer prevention. Ganoderma lucidum benefits can also include helping balance hormone levels and keeping blood sugar in check.
• Although reishi mushrooms are edible, they are mostly found as supplements in the form of capsules, powders, extracts and tinctures.
• Reishi mushrooms are generally considered safe but can come with some side effects and may interfere with certain medications. Be mindful of reishi dosage recommendations on your supplement.
• Add these medicinal mushrooms to soups, teas, coffees and broths for a quick and convenient way to boost the nutritional content of your favorite meals and beverages.

The post Reishi Mushroom: Fight Disease, Boost Immunity & Improve Liver Detox appeared first on Dr. Axe.

A common star of mushroom coffee and mushroom tea, the chaga mushroom is loaded with impressive health benefits. It actually has one of the highest ORAC scores of any food.

Why is this a good thing? ORAC stands for “oxygen radical absorbent capacity.”

The higher the ORAC value, the better a food’s ability to protect the body from disease-causing free radicals. It also means that chaga mushrooms are one of the best sources of antioxidants, with an ORAC value of 146,700.

So why exactly do people want to add chaga mushroom to their diets? What are the benefits of chaga?

People have been known to take chaga mushroom for many health concerns, including heart disease, diabetes, liver disease, parasites, stomach pain and certain types of cancer.

Let’s talk more about possible chaga mushroom benefits and why there’s so much buzz about disease-fighting mushrooms these days.

What Is the Chaga Mushroom?

Chaga mushrooms (Inonotus obliquus) grow wild in places like Siberia, Northern Canada, Alaska and some northern areas of the continental United States. They are a type of fungus mainly grows on the outside of birch trees in very cold climates.

They also can be found on beech, alder, chestnut and hornbeam trees

Chaga mushroom identification isn’t too difficult since they have such a distinct appearance.

What do chaga mushrooms look like? They tend to be lumpy with an exterior that looks similar to burnt charcoal with a softer, squishy yellow-orange core.

The name “chaga” comes from the Russian word for mushroom. These mushrooms have also been called “black gold.”

These mushrooms have been used as traditional medicine in Northern European countries as well as Russia for hundreds of years. They have been used traditionally to treat diabetes and gastrointestinal cancer, along with heart disease, in these areas of the world.

When chaga mushrooms grow on birch trees, as they commonly do, they are quite a sight to see. Not only do they look like burnt wood, but they also can grow in a clump that ends up being as big as a human head.

Like other medicinal mushrooms, the chaga mushroom requires the introduction of hot water or alcohol to break down its tough cellular walls to make the benefits of the mushroom available for human consumption.

Can you put chaga in coffee? You definitely can!

Nowadays, mushroom coffee and tea are picking up popularity. This may seem like a new idea, but chaga mushroom actually was used as a coffee substitute during World Wars I and II.

What does chaga do for the body? Researchers have investigated it for its use in combating cancer for a very long time. Ironically, chaga mushroom is sometimes called a “tree cancer”  because the presence of chaga fungus eventually kills its host tree.

Nutrition Facts

Chaga mushrooms really are most impressive for their antioxidant content. They are low in calories, very high in fiber and free of fat and sugar.

Two teaspoons of raw chaga chunks contain about:

• 30 calories
• 0 grams fat
• 7 grams carbohydrates
• 7 grams fiber (28 percent DV)

Benefits

1. Prevent and Treat Cancer

If you search online, it’s not hard to find some impressive chaga mushroom cancer testimonials, but is there any solid chaga mushroom science behind its use for cancer?

According to the Memorial Sloan Cancer Center, “Laboratory and animal studies show that chaga can inhibit cancer progression. Studies in humans are needed.”

In fact, in one study, tumor-bearing mice who supplemented with chaga mushroom extract experienced a 60 percent tumor size reduction. Meanwhile, mice with metastatic cancer (tumors spread to other parts of the body) had a 25 percent decrease in their number of nodules compared to the control group.

Another study published in the World Journal of Gastroenterology looked at the effects of this mushroom on cancerous human liver cells. The research reveals that chaga extract may be able to prevent liver cancer cell growth, making it a potential treatment for cancer in the liver.

2. Stimulate the Immune System

In animal studies, these mushrooms have helped to boost the immune system by increasing the production of certain immune cells including interleukin 6 (IL-6) as well as T lymphocytes.

These substances help to regulate the immune system and make sure that your body is fighting off any invading bacteria and viruses.

Research has shown that chaga extracts can stimulate spleen lymphocytes, which can then have a direct positive effect on immune system function.

3. Potent Antiviral

This mushroom appears to have antiviral abilities when it comes to quite a few viruses.

Scientific research published in 2015 found that extracts of chaga had an antiviral affect on human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) type 1.

It has also been shown in animal studies to have anti-iral effects when it comes to the hepatitis C virus. Using animal cells, the researchers found that the chaga extract was able to decrease the infective properties of the hepatitis C virus by 100-fold in just 10 minutes.

Studies continue, but it looks like this mushroom is a worthy candidate for use in the development of new antiviral drugs.

4. Inflammation Reducer

These mushrooms have been shown to reduce inflammation.

For example, an animal study has shown that chaga extract can reduce inflammation due to ulcerative colitis in animal subjects. Specifically, the researchers found that the anti-inflammatory effect of the extract in the colon was due to its ability to suppress the expression of chemical mediators of inflammation.

Why is this significant? Because the chemical mediators released during inflammation make inflammation that much more intense and also promote a continuation of the inflammatory response.

5. Improve Physical Endurance

In animal studies, this  mushroom has significantly improved physical endurance.

One study published in 2015 found that when mice were given chaga mushroom polysaccharides, the mice were able to swim longer, the glycogen (fuel) content of both muscles  and liver increased, while lactic acid levels in the bloodstream decreased.

Put that all together and it’s a recipe for less fatigue and better endurance.

Risks, Side Effects and Drug Interactions

Chaga mushroom side effects (including chaga tea side effects) and safety are currently unclear.

To date, there are no clinical trials that have evaluated the safety of these mushrooms in humans. Thus, there is also no standard dosage for humans.

There is a case report of kidney damage/disease in a 72 year-old Japanese woman with liver cancer, caused by taking chaga daily for six months. This mushroom is also high in oxalates, which may prevent the absorption of certain nutrients and can be toxic in high dosages.

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it’s best to avoid these mushrooms because their use has not been studied in pregnant and breastfeeding women.

If you are currently taking any medication or being treated for any medical condition, check with your doctor before you add this mushroom to your diet.

Is chaga mushroom safe? Are there are any specific warnings?

There are concerns about chaga and the following conditions:

• Autoimmune diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis (RA), multiple sclerosis (MS), lupus (systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) — This mushroom can make the immune system more active, which could lead to increased symptoms of autoimmune disease.
• Diabetes — It may decrease blood sugar levels in diabetics.
• Bleeding Disorders — It may raise the risk of bleeding so it’s best not to use if you have a bleeding disorder.
• Surgery — Stop using chaga at least two weeks before any type of surgery since it may increase bleeding risk and/or affect blood sugar control during and after surgery.

If you have any negative side effects while taking this mushroom, discontinue use and seek medication attention if needed.

How to Use

How can you include chaga in your life? Chaga mushroom is available as a supplement in the form of a chaga tincture, capsule, tablet or powder online and in health food stores.

You can also find mushroom coffee or mushroom tea that includes this mushroom alone or in combination with other mushrooms, such as cordyceps.

Some of the most common medicinal mushrooms in mushroom tea and mushroom coffee are:

• Chaga
• Cordyceps
• Reishi
• Lion’s mane
• Turkey tail

Mushroom coffee is said to be less acidic and have less caffeine compared to regular coffee. A cup of mushroom coffee typically has around half of the caffeine content of a regular cup of joe.

What about the taste of mushroom coffee? Makers and drinkers of this interesting brew claim it doesn’t taste like mushrooms and that the added mushrooms taste similar to the coffee itself.

If you’re interested in potential chaga mushroom tea benefits, you can easily make this tea at home. Of course, first you’ll need some raw chunks of chaga mushrooms or chaga mushroom powder.

Does chaga keep you awake? No, it does not contain any caffeine.

How to Make Chaga Tea (One Serving)

To make this chaga mushroom tea recipe, you can use either whole chaga mushroom chunks (roughly 10 grams) or grind the chunks into powder using a coffee grinder and about two teaspoons of the chaga powder. Either way, this is an easy beverage you can make at home.

Here’s how to make it:

1. Insert the mushroom chunks into a mug or the mushroom powder into a diffuser and into the mug.
2. Pour 1 cup of boiled water into the mug.
3. Let the mushroom chunks/powder steep for 3 minutes.
4. If you would like, you can add a little lemon juice, raw honey or maple syrup to taste.

If you have any questions or concerns, always speak to a health professional about the best dosage for you.

Final Thoughts

• People have used chaga mushrooms traditionally for centuries in Russia and Northern European countries.
• To date, researchers have conducted the majority of studies on this mushroom using animal subjects or human cells. Hopefully, research with human subjects will become more common to demonstrate the mushroom’s health benefits.
• What is chaga good for? Studies to date due look very promising when it comes to all kinds of major health concerns, including cancer and viruses.
• Animal research has also shown that it can lower inflammation while boosting immune function and physical endurance.
• Mushroom coffee or mushroom tea is a great, easy way to incorporate a moderate amount of these mushrooms into your diet.
• Drinking coffee that contains mushrooms may sound really strange, but drinkers actually say mushroom coffee tastes great and gives them more balanced energy.
• A homemade chaga tea recipe will definitely give you more of the mushroom flavor (compared to coffee) and is so easy to make.

Read Next: Shiitake Mushrooms: 8 Scientifically Proven Benefits

The post Chaga Mushroom: 5 Benefits and How to Make Chaga Tea appeared first on Dr. Axe.

Although once used solely in traditional forms of medicine, more and more research has started to reinforce the incredible benefits of mushrooms. In fact, certain varieties have been linked to many impressive health benefits, ranging from lower cholesterol levels to decreased cancer growth and more. The wood ear mushroom, in particular, is an ingredient that  has become increasingly popular in stir-fries and soups. Not only does it bring a crisp, snappy texture to meals, but it’s also jam-packed with an assortment of important nutrients and antioxidants.

So what are wood ears in Chinese cooking? And how can these medicinal mushrooms impact your health? Here’s what you need to know.

What Are Wood Ear Mushrooms?

Wood ear mushrooms are a tasty and unique type of edible fungi that go by a number of different names, including Chinese wood ear mushroom, black mushrooms, jelly ear mushrooms or their scientific name, Auricularia auricula-judae.

These mushrooms stand out from other mushroom varieties because of their crunchy texture, dark color and interesting appearance. Unlike other mushrooms, wood ear mushrooms don’t have a stem or cap. They do have an ear-like shape, which is how they originally earned their distinct nickname. However, they are still sometimes confused with the white wood ear mushroom and the elephant ear mushroom, as well as cloud ear fungus (kikurage mushroom), another type of edible tree mushroom that is distantly related to the wood ear.

The black wood ear mushroom is often featured in Asian cooking and widely enjoyed for its crisp texture and mild flavor. So what does black fungus taste like? Although they have a strong woody flavor when raw, the mushrooms tend to take on whatever flavors they are cooked with in dishes, making them a great addition to soups, stir-fries and salads.

Nutrition Facts

Wood ear mushrooms are a great source of many important vitamins and minerals. In fact, each serving contains a low amount of wood ear mushroom calories but is packed with copper, pantothenic acid, selenium and riboflavin.

One cup (about 99 grams) of raw wood ears contains approximately:

• 25 calories
• 7 grams carbohydrates
• 0.5 grams protein
• 0.5 milligrams copper (56 percent of the DV)
• 2 milligrams pantothenic acid (40 percent of the DV)
• 11.1 micrograms selenium (20 percent of the DV)
• 0.2 milligrams riboflavin (15 percent of the DV)
• 0.08 milligrams thiamine (7 percent of the DV)
• 25 milligrams magnesium (6 percent of the DV)
• 0.7 milligrams zinc (6 percent of the DV)
• 0.09 micrograms vitamin B6 (5 percent of the DV)
• 19 micrograms folate (5 percent of the DV)
• 0.1 milligrams manganese (4 percent of the DV)

In addition to the nutrients listed above, wood ear mushrooms also contain a small amount of potassium, phosphorus and calcium.

Health Benefits

1. May Help Fight Cancer Cells

Packed with disease-fighting antioxidants, promising preliminary research suggests that dried wood ear mushroom extract could help fight the growth of cancer cells. One in vitro study conducted by Kyungpook National University in Korea found that wood ear mushroom extract was effective at killing off tumor cells of the lungs, bones and stomach. Keep in mind, though, that more research is needed to evaluate whether wood ear mushrooms may have a beneficial impact on cancer growth in humans as well.

2. Supports Heart Health

Some studies have found that wood ear fungus could have powerful hypolipidemic properties, which can help keep cholesterol levels in check and protect against heart disease. According to one animal model published in Mycobiology, administering wood ear mushroom extract to mice led to massive reductions in levels of triglycerides, total cholesterol and bad LDL cholesterol. It also decreased the atherogenic index by 40 percent, which is a measure used to predict the risk of heart disease and plaque buildup in the arteries.

3. Loaded with Antioxidants

Research shows that wood ear mushrooms are jam-packed with antioxidants and polyphenols. That can have a huge impact on overall health. Antioxidants are compounds that help fight free radical formation and protect cells against oxidative damage. Antioxidants also play a central role in health and disease, with research indicating that they could aid in the prevention of chronic conditions like cancer, heart disease and rheumatoid arthritis.

4. Blocks Bacterial Growth

In addition to being a great source of antioxidants and micronutrients, wood ear mushrooms also possess potent antimicrobial properties that can help ward off certain strains of bacteria. A 2015 in vitro study in the International Journal of Medicinal Mushrooms actually found that wood ear mushroom was effective at blocking the growth of Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus, two types of bacteria that can cause infections in humans.

5. Good Source of Copper

Each serving of wood ear mushrooms packs quite a punch when it comes to nutrition. These small but powerful mushrooms are an especially good source of copper, a micronutrient that is essential to several aspects of health. Not only is copper important for iron metabolism, but it’s also needed for heart health, lung function and more. A deficiency in this key nutrient can have some serious side effects, ranging from diarrhea and impaired immunity to weakened bones, nerve damage, anemia and heart problems.

Where to Find and How to Use

Wood ear mushrooms grow worldwide and can be found on wood in cool temperatures, usually around early spring or late fall. Although they are sometimes confused with other species, most wood ear mushroom lookalikes are actually edible as well.

Besides foraging for them yourself, you can also find the mushrooms at many specialty stores and online retailers. It’s much easier to find the wood ear mushroom dried, but it can simply be reconstituted by soaking in water overnight to enjoy it fresh as well.

There are plenty of options for how to cook wood ear mushroom, and it can be used to add a crisp texture to just about any dish. It can be added to stir-fries, mixed into soups, sautéed with veggies or enjoyed as part of a tasty mushroom salad.

Recipes

There are plenty of dried and fresh wood ear mushroom recipe options out there, making it easy to enjoy this flavorsome edible fungi. Here are a few simple recipes to help get you started:

• Wood Ear Mushroom Salad
• Chicken and Wood Ear Mushroom Soup
• Wood Ear Mushroom Ramen
• Bean Sprout and Wood Ear Mushroom Stir-Fry

Risks and Side Effects

For most, this edible black fungus can be a safe and healthy addition to the diet. However, it’s important to practice proper food safety and clean mushrooms thoroughly prior to consumption. Additionally, those with an allergy should not consume wood ear mushrooms to avoid food allergy symptoms like nausea, itching, swelling and hives.

In some cases, wood ear mushrooms may act as an anticoagulant and prevent blood from clotting. Therefore, it’s recommended to talk to your doctor prior to consumption if you take blood thinners like warfarin or coumadin to prevent an interaction with these medications.

Final Thoughts

• Wood ear mushrooms are a type of edible mushroom often used to enhance the texture of dishes in many Asian cuisines.
• They’re widely available in dried form and can be added to a wide variety of different dishes, including soups, salads, stir-fries and more.
• In addition to being high in copper, pantothenic acid and antioxidants, these delicious mushrooms have also been linked to a number of wood ear mushroom benefits.
• In fact, research shows that these mushrooms could potentially improve heart health, fight bacteria and block cancer cell growth.

Read Next: Turkey Tail Mushroom: The Disease-Fighting, Immune-Boosting Fungus

The post Wood Ear Mushroom Benefits the Heart, Immunity & More appeared first on Dr. Axe.

Found growing in temperate regions around the globe, the honey mushroom doubles as a dangerous pathogen to plants yet an edible form of fungi that works well in recipes ranging from pasta to soup. Thanks to its impressive antioxidant content, the honey mushroom has also been shown to have cancer-fighting, blood sugar-lowering properties that could be therapeutic in the treatment of several chronic conditions. Plus, it also happens to be one of the largest living organisms on Earth, with some colonies spanning several miles in diameter.

So what is this medicinal mushroom, how can you identify it and how can it impact your health? Keep reading for everything you need to know about this interesting form of fungi, plus some other fun honey mushroom facts.

What Is Honey Mushroom?

The honey mushroom is a genus composed of several types of parasitic fungi that grow on wood. Armillaria, which is the honey mushroom scientific name, is made up of about 10 different species of mushrooms, including Armillaria mellea, Armillaria ostoyae and Armillaria tabescens.

Where does honey fungus grow?

Honey mushrooms can be found growing in temperate regions around the globe, including areas like Asia, Europe and North America. The mushrooms feed on dead plant material and can cause fungal root rot in trees, which spreads through root-like structures known as  rhizomorphs.

Typically, these species have long life spans and form some of the largest living organisms in the world. Although the honey mushroom size can vary quite a bit, the largest fungal colony in the world is actually of the species Armillaria solidipes, which spans 2.4 miles across the Blue Mountains in Oregon.

Some types, such as the ringless honey mushroom, are edible and considered a delicacy in many parts of the world. However, they must be cooked prior to consumption, as they are actually considered poisonous when raw.

How to Identify Honey Fungus

There are plenty of honey mushroom identification guide websites and resources out there with information on how to identify mushrooms and which ringless honey mushroom lookalikes you should be aware of.

Honey mushrooms can be identified by the stems, which grow together in tight clusters and can range in color from white to yellowish-brown. Depending on the species, some types have a distinct ring under the stem while others are ringless. They can grow in clusters of up to 50 mushrooms, although you’re much more likely to spot them in groups of 10–20. Many people also wonder: Does honey fungus smell? In addition to their unique appearance, honey mushrooms also have a slightly acidic odor that can come in handy when identifying mushrooms.

When mushroom hunting, it’s important to look out for deadly galerina, a honey mushroom lookalike that can actually be toxic to humans. Compared to the honey mushroom, deadly galerina is slightly smaller and usually dark brown in color. It also has tan gills and a convex cap that slowly starts to flatten with maturity.

Health Benefits and Uses

1. Rich in Antioxidants

Honey fungus mushroom is a great source of antioxidants, which are compounds that help neutralize disease-causing free radicals and protect against chronic disease. In fact, in vitro studies show that several specific compounds isolated from honey mushrooms can be effective at scavenging free radicals and preventing oxidative damage to cells.

2. Could Help Fight Cancer Cell Growth

While more research is still needed to determine how honey mushrooms may affect cancer in humans, some studies show that it could help block the growth and spread of cancer cells in vitro. For example, one in vitro study found that armillarikin, a compound found in Armillaria mellea, was able to kill off liver cancer cells. Meanwhile, other research shows that it could even be therapeutic against leukemia and esophageal cancer cells as well.

3. Protects Brain Health

One of the most promising uses for the honey mushroom medicinal properties is its potential to enhance brain function and protect against neurodgenerative disorders. In fact, one animal model in Oxidative Medicine and Cellular Longevity found that extracts obtained from Armillaria mellea were effective at improving neuron function, preventing cell damage and decreasing the buildup of proteins in the brain that have been linked to Alzheimer’s disease.

4. May Stabilize Blood Sugar

High blood sugar can come with serious consequences, ranging from impaired headaches and increased thirst to impaired wound healing and vision problems. According to one 2015 in vitro study, Armillaria mellea extracts exhibited powerful antioxidant and blood sugar-lowering properties, suggesting that they could be used to develop dietary supplements and pharmaceutical products aimed at treating diabetes.

5. Versatile and Delicious

Besides their many health benefits, honey mushrooms are tasty, versatile and easy to enjoy in a number of different recipes. They have a slightly sweet yet earthy flavor and a distinct, chewy texture. They can be sautéed for a simple side dish or combined with other veggies to make a nutritious stir-fry. Alternatively, you can use these mushrooms in pasta dishes, soups or stuffings to give your favorite recipes a kick of extra flavor and antioxidants.

Honey Fungus Treatment

What causes honey fungus? Does honey fungus always spread? And can you kill honey fungus? If you find this type of mushroom growing in your garden, you probably have a lot of questions about how you can get it under control and stop it from spreading to protect your plants.

Because there’s no chemical treatment currently available for honey fungus, you need to remove it manually to help prevent its spread. Simply remove and dispose of any affected plants, including the roots. For large trees, this may require you to contact a professional who is experienced with excavating trees. Then, be sure to thoroughly disinfect any tools that may have come in contact with the fungus using either bleach, hydrogen peroxide or rubbing alcohol to ensure that you won’t spread the fungus any further.

Ensuring healthy growing conditions can help prevent honey fungus from growing in the future. Plants should get enough water and light, plus have plenty of healthy soil and space to help avoid future infection. You can also choose to select plants that are more resistant to honey fungus instead, such as bamboo, oak, beech and yew trees.

Recipes

There are plenty of unique and interesting ways to add honey mushroom to your diet, from soups to stir-fries and beyond. Here are a few simple yet delicious honey mushroom recipe ideas that you can start experimenting with to help get you going:

• Pickled Honey Mushrooms
• Honey Mushroom Soup
• Heirloom Squash Ravioli with Honey Mushrooms and Sage
• Sautéed Honey Mushrooms

Risks and Side Effects

Honey mushrooms should always be cooked prior to consumption. They are unsafe to eat raw and can cause serious side effects. Some people may not be able to tolerate honey mushrooms even after cooking and may experience symptoms like nausea, cramps and stomach pain. If you experience any side effects after consuming honey mushrooms, discontinue use immediately. It’s also not advisable to consume alcohol with the mushrooms, and certain species should not be eaten within 12–24 hours of drinking alcohol to prevent negative symptoms.

When foraging for mushrooms, be careful of honey mushroom lookalikes such as deadly galerina, a type of mushroom similar in appearance that can actually be toxic. Be sure to review the galerina vs. honey mushroom images carefully to familiarize yourself with the differences, and don’t consume mushrooms if you’re not completely sure that they’re safe.

Read Next: Morel Mushrooms: 5 Health Benefits, Plus How to Hunt for Them!

The post Can You Eat Honey Mushroom? (Or Is This Fungus Toxic?) appeared first on Dr. Axe.

With their unique honeycomb appearance and deep, earthy flavor, morel mushrooms have become a fast favorite among chefs and foodies alike. But in addition to dialing up the taste and aroma of dishes, morels also bring a host of mushroom health benefits to the table as well. In fact, research shows that they may help bump up immune function, kill off harmful pathogens, support liver health and more.

So where can you find these edible mushrooms and how can you add them to your diet? Let’s take a closer look at why you may want to keep an eye out for these tasty treats the next time you go mushroom hunting.

What Are Morel Mushrooms?

Morel mushrooms, also known Morchella or true morels, are a prized variety of edible mushrooms favored for their rarity and rich flavor. Unlike many other types of mushrooms, morel mushrooms are foraged instead of farmed and can be harvested in certain areas of North America, India, Pakistan, Turkey and China.

Morchella is actually a genus, which includes around 70 different species of morel mushrooms, each of which has minute variations in flavor and appearance. In general, morel mushrooms have a distinct earthy taste that works well when used in pastas, soups and meat dishes. They can also be sautéed in a bit of butter and served with a sprinkle of salt and pepper for a simple side dish.

What Do Morel Mushrooms Look Like?

The appearance of the morel mushroom can vary quite a bit between different species. The colors can range from grey to yellow to brown and they can be anywhere from one to five inches in size. One thing that all morel mushrooms do have in common, though, is their unique honeycomb-like appearance which is caused by the presence of the ridges and pits that cover the cap.

It’s important not to confuse these mushrooms with false morel mushrooms, which are similar in appearance but contain a type of toxin known as gyromitrin, which can cause serious side effects if consumed in large quantities. False morels typically have wrinkles and brain-like folds on the cap, which differ from the honeycomb appearance of morels. Some types also hold a cotton-like substance inside the stem, whereas true morels are hollow in the middle.

Why Are Morels So Popular, Delicious and Expensive?

Morel mushrooms are considered a true delicacy by gourmet chefs and mushroom connoisseurs alike. They are even enjoyed by many who don’t like regular mushrooms due to their rich, nutty flavor and tender, meaty texture.

The morel mushrooms price tag also tends to run relatively high because they are usually foraged instead of farmed, meaning you can only find them growing out in the wild and are unlikely to spot morel mushrooms for sale at your local supermarket. Not only that, but they’re also hard to cultivate and highly perishable, which is why you’re most likely to find them dried rather than fresh at most retailers.

Are Morels Good for You? Health Benefits

1. High in Antioxidants

Antioxidants are powerful compounds that help fight free radical damage and protect the cells against oxidative stress. Some research even shows that the benefits of antioxidants extend beyond the cellular level, reporting that upping your intake of antioxidants could also aid in the prevention of chronic conditions like heart disease and cancer.

In vitro research published in Pharmaceutical Biology found that morel mushrooms are loaded with antioxidants that can help scavenge free radicals and prevent lipid peroxidation. According to the study: “The findings suggest the potential therapeutic use of morel mushroom, M. esculenta mycelia as an efficient antioxidant.”

2. Possesses Antimicrobial Properties

Interestingly enough, several promising in vitro studies show that morel mushrooms may help protect against harmful pathogens to fight infections caused by bacteria and yeast.

For example, a 2017 study out of India showed that certain compounds found in morel mushrooms were effective at blocking the growth of Escherichia coli, which is a type of bacteria that can cause intestinal problems. These compounds were also able to reduce the activity of Aspergillus fumigatus, a species of fungus known to infect those with weakened immune systems.

3. May Promote Liver Health

Thanks to its potent antioxidant properties, studies show that morel mushrooms could protect and preserve liver health. In fact, one animal study conducted by the Amala Cancer Research Centre in Kerala, India showed that administrating morel mushroom extract exhibited hepatoprotective activities and reduced several markers used to measure liver disease.

4. Boosts Immune Function

Although more studies are needed in humans, preliminary research suggests that certain compounds found within morels could rev up immune function and relieve inflammation in the body.

For instance, one in vitro study in the journal Food and Chemical Toxicology demonstrated that a polysaccharide extract of the morel mushroom was able to enhance the activity and anti-inflammatory properties of immune cells. Another study had similar findings, showing that polysaccharides found within the mushrooms could act as immunomodulatory agents in vitro.

5. Could Help Fight Cancer Cells

In addition to enhancing immunity and delivering a hearty dose of disease-busting antioxidants, morel mushrooms could also have a powerful impact on cancer development. An in vitro study in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences found that compounds extracted from morels inhibited the growth and spread of colon cancer cells in a dose-dependent manner.

Keep in mind, though, that additional studies are needed to determine whether eating morel mushrooms can provide the same cancer-fighting properties in humans.

Related: Top 12 Cancer-Fighting Foods

How to Hunt for Morel Mushrooms

Unlike other types of mushrooms, you’re unlikely to find indoor morel mushrooms growing kits or instructions for how to grow morel mushrooms indoors online. In addition to being very difficult to grow inside, it’s also hard to replicate the conditions required for growth commercially. Coupled with their high price tag and limited availability, many opt to try morel mushroom hunting instead to get their fix of this delicious delicacy.

So where do morel mushrooms grow? Morel mushrooms are typically found in moist but well-drained areas and can be spotted growing near trees, including specific types such as ash, elm, hickory and sycamore. Certain species of morels also tend to grow in areas that have recently been affected by forest fires and can be found on the outer edges of burned areas.

One of the top morel mushrooms hunting tips is to keep in mind that morels often grow together. If you find one or two growing in a specific spot, you’re much more likely to find even more growing in clusters nearby.

The morel mushrooms season starts in spring and they generally start cropping up around April to May, depending on your location. Another common question is: in what states do morel mushrooms grow? You can typically found morels across North America, but they’re a bit more prevalent in the midwest. Some websites also offer a morel mushroom map, which tracks sightings of this rare mushroom to help pinpoint where you may be able to find them growing near you.

How to Use Morels

So once you’ve figured out how to find morel mushrooms, you may be wondering what to do with morels after picking them. Because of their hollow interior, fresh morels are very fragile and may keep only for up to a week with proper storage.

It can be difficult figuring out how to clean morel mushrooms, especially because they tend to deteriorate much more quickly after being washed. Generally, most recommend using a soft brush to remove dirt from the exterior before rinsing briefly with cold water and patting dry.

When it comes to how to store morel mushrooms, they should be placed in the refrigerator and kept loose with adequate ventilation to maximize shelf-life. Alternatively, there are also plenty of options for how to dry morel mushrooms using a dehydrator or oven, which can help them last exponentially longer.

If you’re just trying these mushrooms for the first time, you may be wondering: can you eat morel mushrooms raw? Cooking morel mushrooms is absolutely essential prior to consumption, as morels contain small amounts of toxins which are destroyed through cooking. Eating morels raw could cause negative side effects on health, especially if you’re consuming large amounts over time.

Fortunately, there are plenty of simple methods for how to prepare morel mushrooms and enjoy them in your favorite meals. They’re often cooked with a bit of butter and seasoning as well as a splash of cream or wine. Or, you can try adding them to pastas, stir-fries, pizzas and soups to bring an added burst of flavor to your favorite dishes.

Recipes

With a little creativity, there are limitless options for how to cook morel mushrooms. Here are a few delicious morel mushrooms recipe ideas to help get you started:

• Sautéed Asparagus with Morels
• Cream of Morel Mushroom Soup
• Chicken with Morel Mushrooms
• Morel Mushroom Risotto
• Asparagus and Morel Pizza with Garlic Confit

Risks and Side Effects

So are all morel mushrooms safe to eat? And can morel mushrooms make you sick? When properly prepared, morel mushrooms can be a safe and healthy addition to a well-rounded diet. Keep in mind, however, that the mushrooms should be cleaned properly and should always be cooked prior to consumption; raw morels contain a type of toxin that is destroyed during cooking.

If you’re hunting and harvesting your own mushrooms, it’s also important to ensure you’re getting morel mushrooms rather than false morel mushrooms. Although the two are similar in terms of appearance, there are several variations in their cap, stem and color that can help you distinguish between the two. What happens if you eat a false morel? False morels contain gyromitrin, a dangerous compound that is hydrolyzed into the toxin known as monomethylhydrazine (MMH), which can cause symptoms like headache, weakness, vomiting and stomach pain.

Those who have an allergy to mushrooms should also avoid morels and other types of edible mushrooms. If you experience any food allergy symptoms like stomach upset, hives or itching, discontinue consumption and talk to your doctor.

Final Thoughts

• Morel mushrooms are a type of edible mushroom that are found around the world and are typically foraged instead of farmed.
• Although the appearance can vary between species, they are known for their honeycomb cap and hollow interior. There are several distinct differences between these mushrooms and false morels, which are a type of mushroom that can actually be dangerous when consumed.
• Are morel mushrooms good for you? In addition to being high in antioxidants, in vitro studies and animal models also suggest that morels could help fight harmful pathogens, boost immune function, promote liver health and reduce cancer cell growth.
• Because growing morel mushrooms can be very challenging, many choose to forage for them instead. There are plenty of online resources and maps for where to find morel mushrooms, but they are common in moist, well-drained areas at the base of certain types of trees.
• While safe for most, morels should be cooked prior to consumption and should be avoided by those with an allergy to mushrooms to avoid negative effects on health.

Read Next: Reishi Mushroom: Fight Cancer, Boost Immunity and Improve Liver Detox

The post Morel Mushrooms: 5 Health Benefits, Plus How to Hunt for Them! appeared first on Dr. Axe.

The portobello mushroom is one of the most widely consumed mushrooms in the world. Among most other types of mushrooms, especially those called “medicinal mushrooms,” portobellos are known as natural cancer-fighters and protectors of the immune system.

Compared to more expensive and sometimes difficult-to-find mushrooms — like shiitakes or reiki mushrooms, for example — portobello mushrooms are widely available in most grocery stores and usually pretty cost-efficient.Whether you’re following a plant-based diet, low-carb diet, vegan diet or somewhere in between, there are lots of reasons why portobellos and other mushrooms should have a place on your plate.

Because they provide plant-based protein and many essential nutrients, in addition to disease-fighting antioxidants and phytonutrients, cooking with portobellos is one of the best ways to “crowd out” unhealthier foods in your diet — like processed red meat or difficult-to-digest soy, dairy and grain products. Plus, portobello mushroom benefits are truly remarkable, from combatting cancer and inflammation to providing valuable vitamins and minerals that boost health.

What Is a Portobello Mushroom?

Portobello mushrooms (also just called “portobellos”) are mature, white button mushrooms and a type of fungus. Not only are they very low in calories and a great substitute for meat in recipes, but portobellos are also a good source of phytochemicals, such as L-ergothioneine and conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) that have cancer-preventing properties and other anti-aging effects. Because they’re types of fungi, mushrooms scavenge organic matter, meaning they grow by absorbing nutrients from the ground and decaying matter, such as wood or even manure. This allows them to become very nutrient-dense, and when eaten by people, their nutrients then help to eliminate toxins from the body and scavenge free radicals that contribute to disease.

Where can you find portobello mushrooms? A variety of mushrooms — including those that go by the names portobello mushroom, white button mushroom, oyster mushroom and shiitake mushroom — are typically available in most major grocery stores. Health food stores usually have a greater variety of species available, including both fresh and dried mushrooms. Portobellos are normally sold fresh but appear differently in terms of size, smell and color depending on how mature they are.

Health Benefits

What are the benefits of portobellos? Below are several reasons why mushrooms make an excellent addition to your diet:

1. May Help Lower Cancer Risk

The anticancer properties of mushroom extract is believed to be due to phytochemicals within mushrooms that have positive effects on cell death, growth and proliferation of healthy cells, lipid metabolism, and immune responses. Portobellos contain CLA, which has been shown to help inhibit cell proliferation and induce apoptosis (death of abnormal or cancerous cells). They are one of the only plant/non-meat sources of CLA, making them unique and valuable in vegetarian diets. (1)

One study that compared the effects of mushroom extract on mice found that those treated with the extract experienced reductions in prostate tumor size and tumor cell proliferation compared to the control group of mice that were not treated. (2) Researchers involved in the study found that mushroom extract containing CLA contributed to significant changes in gene expression that were observed in the mushroom-fed mice group but not the control group.

That CLA content, along with other phytonutrients, is why mushrooms like the portobello mushroom are considered some of the top cancer-fighting foods on the planet.

2. Contains Antioxidants and Natural Anti-Inflammatories

Mushrooms in general are one of the best dietary sources of L-ergothioneine (ERGO). Studies have found that low levels of ERGO are associated with higher risk for many chronic inflammatory diseases, especially those affecting red blood cells/hemoglobin.

According to researchers at Penn State University, ERGO is biosynthesized only by fungi and mycobacteria (not humans), making mushrooms one of the only ways that humans and animals consume any. In recent years, ERGO has been researched for its potential therapeutic effects in the treatment of red blood cell disorders that are caused in part by oxidative damage. Research also shows that as a very stable antioxidant with unique abilities, it may be helpful for counteracting damage to mitochondrial DNA and protecting against neurodegenerative diseases, especially Parkinson’s disease. (3)

3. Good Substitute for Meat

Most people can afford to eat more meatless/vegetarian meals, including stir-fry, salads or casseroles that provide lots of veggies and nutrients. Mushrooms are a popular alternative for meat, with the added benefit of being lower in calories, fat, sodium, and free from dairy, nuts or soy.

If you follow a vegetarian or vegan diet, portobellos are one of the best foods to use in veggie burgers, fajitas, etc., since they can take on a similar texture and mouth-feel to meat and are also usually easy to digest. Unbeknown to most people, mushrooms are actually relatively high in protein considering they’re not a meat source. Most types contain about 20 percent protein based on their dried weight/mass. (4)

Even if you’re not following a plant-based diet but want to reduce the amount of meat you eat, try using portobellos as a substitute in place of processed tofu products, frozen veggie burgers (which commonly contain ingredients like soy protein isolate) or legumes/beans that can be hard for some people to digest properly.

4. Great Source of B Vitamins

For a vegetable, the portobello mushroom is exceptionally high in B vitamins, including niacin (vitamin B3) and riboflavin (vitamin B2). What are the health benefits of consuming foods high in B vitamins? B vitamins are needed to maintain high energy levels, cognitive health and help the body recover from stress. Niacin helps support functions of the cardiovascular system and a strong metabolism, including playing a role in keeping cholesterol and blood pressure levels in check.

Riboflavin is helpful for preventing or treating headaches and migraines, may lower PMS symptoms, protects the eyes from diseases like glaucoma, and helps prevent anemia. B vitamins also support healthy skin, are beneficial for preventing diabetes by helping to maintain normal blood sugar levels, and may help beat fatigue, joint pains and arthritis.

5. Provides Copper and Selenium

Copper is a trace mineral found in portobellos that plays an important role in the production of hemoglobin and red blood cells, supports a healthy metabolism, and is needed for growth, development and ongoing connective tissue repair. The body uses copper as part of various enzyme reactions and to maintain hormonal balance. Finally, copper helps prevent fatigue because it acts as a catalyst in the reduction of molecular oxygen to water, part of the chemical reaction that takes place when ATP (energy) is created within cells to fuel the body’s processes.

Selenium is another nutrient that portobellos supply high amounts of (over 30 percent of your daily requirement in one serving). Selenium supports activities of the thyroid gland by acting as a catalyst for the production of active thyroid hormones, helps fight inflammation, is beneficial for circulation and reproductive health, and may even help lower someone’s risk of developing cancer.

6. Low in Carbs but Still Provides Some Fiber

If you’re following a low-carb diet, or even a very low-carb keto diet, mushrooms can really come in handy for bulking up your meals and adding fiber, flavor and nutrients to your diet without supplying any sugar or too many carbs. One serving of portobellos has about three to six grams of carbohydrates (depending on the size and specific type) but only about two to three grams of net carbs when fiber is taken into account. For very little calories, you can add portobello mushroom to meals like omelettes, salads, soups or stir-fries in order to help you feel fuller and obtain to some fiber and electrolytes like potassium.

Nutrition Facts

The portobello mushroom is a type of fungus that has the species name Agaricus bisporus. Portobellos may be called by various other names depending on how mature the mushrooms are and what part of the world you live in. The same fungi species that are called portobello mushrooms are also labeled as cremini mushrooms, baby bella mushrooms, brown cap mushroom and chestnut mushrooms.

Most people think of portobello mushrooms as large mushroom “caps,” which can grow as large as roughly the size of someone’s hand. The caps usually have a white-gray flesh on the underside of the mushroom where the thick stem is found and a darker, firmer top. Portobellos are classified as basidiomycete mushrooms, and they typically come in two colors: white and brown. When the mushrooms are “immature,” they’re usually smaller, round and white to whitish-brown. Once they mature, they usually become darker in color, typically medium to very dark brown, and much bigger.

Like other mushrooms, portobellos are a good source of amino acids (the “building blocks of proteins”), dietary fiber, B vitamins and many essential minerals. Among different types of vegetables, they’re one of the best ways to get more B vitamins in your diet (even without eating meat), including thiamine, riboflavin, niacin and biotin. They also contain some selenium, copper, phosphorus and electrolytes like potassium. At the same time, they’re low-carb, meat-free (vegan), gluten-free, soy-free, nut-free, and very low in fat, sodium and calories, making them suitable for many different types of diets.

One cup (121 grams) of sliced, grilled portobello mushrooms contains about: (5)

• 42.4 calories
• 5.9 grams carbohydrates
• 5.2 grams protein
• 0.9 gram fat
• 2.7 grams fiber
• 7.2 milligrams niacin (36 percent DV)
• 0.6 milligram riboflavin (34 percent DV)
• 21.4 micrograms selenium (31 percent DV)
• 0.6 milligram copper (30 percent DV)
• 1.9 milligrams pantothenic acid (19 percent DV)
• 182 milligrams phosphorus (18 percent DV)
• 630 milligrams potassium (18 percent DV)
• 0.1 milligram thiamine (7 percent DV)
• 23 micrograms folate (6 percent DV)
• 0.9 milligrams zinc (6 percent DV)
• 18.1 milligrams magnesium (5 percent DV)
• 0.1 milligram manganese (5 percent DV)
• 0.1 milligram vitamin B6 (4 percent DV)
• 0.7 milligram iron (4 percent DV)

Portobellos usually only contain very small amounts of vitamin D (around 0.2 micrograms, 8 IU). However, the concentration of vitamin D (due to the compound called ergocalciferol, which can be converted to vitamin D2) becomes much higher when mushrooms are exposed to UV light from either the sun or special growing lamps. There’s debate over how much vitamin D mushrooms can actually provide, especially considering that it’s still difficult for many to find mushrooms that have been exposed to UV light. However, research shows that mushrooms are unique among vegetables due to being capable of doubling or tripling their vitamin D content within just a few short hours of light exposure. (6)

Portobello Mushroom vs. Other Mushrooms

• Various types of mushrooms have immune-supporting effects, although many consider the “healthiest” species of mushrooms in the world to be medicinal mushrooms, such as cordyceps or reishi mushrooms. Other nutrient-dense types include shiitake and maitake, which are commonly eaten and cooked with, as opposed to taken in supplement or extract form like medicinal mushrooms are.
• Compared to portobello mushroom, medicinal mushrooms are considered to have more adaptogen qualities, meaning they help support the nervous system and boost the body’s ability to cope with stress, fatigue or illness. While portobellos do help protect the mitochondria, cordyceps and reishi mushrooms are even more powerful and have strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatry abilities.
• Maitake mushrooms are an excellent choice for obtaining special polysaccharide components called beta-1,6 glucan, which stimulate the immune system and may help prevent viruses, infections or complications due to other conditions like diabetes.
• Oyster mushrooms may be better for providing higher levels of iron and preventing conditions like anemia, joint pain or tendonitis compared to portobello mushroom.
• Shiitake mushrooms are unique due to containing the chemical called lentinan in addition to eritadenine. These help reduce cholesterol levels, may help prevent stomach cancer, reduce risk for heart disease, and have benefits for treating hepatitis, high blood pressure and infectious diseases.

How to Use and Cook

When shopping for portobellos, look for mushrooms that are firm, solid, free from tears, and not shriveled or slippery-looking. You can also sniff the mushrooms to tell if they’re fresh, looking for those with an “earthy smell.” (7)

First remove the thick stem from the underneath of your mushroom caps (if they have them). Mushrooms absorb a high amount of water, which means it’s best not to rinse them in much water or soak them in an attempt to clean off any dirt. To remove any residue from the surface of mushrooms try using a damp cloth, rag or strong paper towel. Gently rub the mushrooms to clean them up, being careful not to rub too hard as this can cause them to start breaking. Once you’re done cleaning the mushrooms, pat them with a dry cloth or paper towel to let them dry — this way they don’t become overly soggy when you cook or prepare them.

There are lots of different ways to cook mushrooms depending on how much time you have and the type of recipe you’re making. Here are some suggestions:

• Steam sliced portobellos along with other veggies for a simple side dish. Steam for only several minutes to prevent overcooking and sogginess.
• Marinate large portobello mushroom caps in olive oil, vinegar and herbs before grilling on the barbecue or a grill pan for several minutes on each side.
• Stuff cleaned portobello caps with cooked whole grains (such as wild rice or quinoa) along with herbs and chopped veggies before baking/roasting in the oven for about 15–20 minutes.
• Sauté chopped mushrooms in a non-stick pan with a bit of oil or butter for about 5–10 minutes.

Recipes

Try adding portobello mushrooms to recipes like homemade pizza, veggie tacos or fajitas, spinach and feta calzones, veggies burgers, or tomato and mozzarella stacks drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette. Portobellos go well with blue, feta or goat cheese; basil; parsley; red or yellow onion; red pepper flakes; garlic; tomatoes; soy sauce; butter; stock; and acidic ingredients like vinegar. Below are several recipes that portobellos make a great addition to:

• Grilled Portobello Burgers Recipe
• Stuffed Mushrooms Recipe
• Pecorino Chicken & Mushrooms Recipe
• Mushroom Soup Recipe
• Grilled Veggie Naan Pizzas (and loads of other grilled recipes)

Risks and Side Effects

While they’re not commonly a problem for most people, portobello mushrooms contain purines that are linked to health problems in some cases. Purines break down to form uric acid, which can accumulate and lead to conditions like gout or kidney stones and kidney dysfunction. If you struggle with one of these conditions, avoid mushrooms and other sources of purines, or only eat them in moderation.

If you’ve ever had an allergic reaction to other types of mushrooms, it’s best to use caution when eating portobellos, especially since they’re related to other edible mushrooms and can cause similar effects.

Final Thoughts

• Portobello mushrooms are mature, white button mushrooms and a healthy, edible type of fungus.
• Benefits of portobellos include high levels of B vitamins, antioxidants, phytonutrients like CLA and L-ergothioneine, selenium, copper, potassium, phosphorus, and even some plant-based protein.
• Eating portobello mushroom is a great way to get more nutrients and help avoid deficiencies if you’re on a vegan/vegetarian diet, low-carb diet, or have any health conditions like low energy/fatigue, joint pain, indigestion, brain fog or thyroid problems.

Read Next: Chaga Mushroom: 5 Health Benefits of This Ancient Medicine

The post Portobello Mushroom Helps Combat Cancer, Inflammation & More appeared first on Dr. Axe.

From banquets to oyster bars to cocktail parties and beyond, bivalve varieties like clams, mussels and scallops are popping up just about everywhere. It’s easy to understand why; not only do they have a distinct and delicious flavor, but they are also versatile enough to add to pastas, soups and sauces.

While there’s no doubt that they’re tasty, many question the potential effects that this food may have when it comes to health. Uncooked oysters, in particular, are notorious for the spread of infectious bacteria, but other types of bivalves have also been known to pass on dangerous toxins that can have detrimental effects on health.

On the other hand, bivalves are an incredibly nutrient-dense food, providing a concentrated megadose of important micronutrients like vitamin B12 and selenium. They also tend to be high in protein and antioxidants, plus may be associated with some health benefits as well.

So should you eat bivalves, or should you start skipping the shellfish — whether you have a shellfish allergy or not? Keep on reading to find out what you need to know to help you decide for yourself.

What Are Bivalves?

Bivalves are a type of sea mollusk and are closely related to other types of mollusks, such as squid, octopuses, snails and slugs. However, the official bivalve definition encompasses any aquatic mollusk belonging to the class Bivalvia, such as oysters, scallops, clams and mussels. These animals are found around the world in both freshwater and saltwater and are one of the most commonly consumed types of seafood.

The most important aspect of bivalve anatomy is the two shells that protect the soft inner body. Bivalves can open and close the shells to help them move and eat but close them immediately in the presence of danger.

So how do bivalves move? They have a special muscle called the foot that works like a hinge to control the shells and is also responsible for most of their movement. The foot is especially effective when it comes to moving side to side and digging to help the bivalve burrow itself in the sand away from danger. For other types of movement, the bivalve generally depends on water currents to help carry them further distances.

Instead of a mouth, bivalves have tubes called siphons that allow them to breathe and eat. Food passes into the stomach where it can be digested, and oxygen from the water is passed to the gills, which aid in respiration. Waste products and carbon dioxide are also eliminated through a different siphon, known as the out-current siphon.

Edible Bivalve Food + Types of Bivalves

Bivalves are the second largest class of mollusks, right behind univalves, which are made up of slugs and snails. It’s estimated that there are about 10,000 living species of bivalves, with only about 20 percent found in freshwater sources. (1)

That being said, not all bivalves are edible. Some of the most common edible bivalve examples include oysters, clams, cockles, scallops and mussels.

Bivalves are often consumed grilled, steamed or cooked and served over pastas, soups or seafood skillets. The meat is typically removed with a fork, and the empty shell is discarded. Some types of bivalves are also often consumed raw, such as oysters. To eat an oyster, the meat is separated from the shell using a fork, the shell is picked up and the oyster is slurped down from the wide end.

Some types of bivalves are also used to make dips, sauces, broths and juices that can be easily incorporated into other recipes.

Bivalve Nutrition Facts

The nutritional value of bivalves can vary widely based on the type, but they are generally low in calories and high in important nutrients like zinc, vitamin B12, manganese and selenium.

For example, a three-ounce serving of oysters (or about six medium oysters) contains approximately: (2)

• 57.1 calories
• 3.3 grams carbohydrates
• 5.9 grams protein
• 2.1 grams fat
• 76.3 milligrams zinc (509 percent DV)
• 16.3 micrograms vitamin B12 (272 percent DV)
• 3.7 milligrams copper (187 percent DV)
• 53.5 micrograms selenium (76 percent DV)
• 269 IU vitamin D (67 percent DV)
• 5.6 milligrams iron (31 percent DV)
• 0.3 milligram manganese (15 percent DV)
• 113 milligrams phosphorus (11 percent DV)
• 39.5 milligrams magnesium (10 percent DV)

Mussels, on the other hand, are higher in protein and contain a slightly different array of nutrients. A three-ounce serving of cooked mussels contains approximately: (3)

• 146 calories
• 6.3 grams carbohydrates
• 20.2 grams protein
• 3.8 grams fat
• 20.4 micrograms vitamin B12 (340 percent DV)
• 5.8 milligrams manganese (289 percent DV)
• 76.2 micrograms selenium (109 percent DV)
• 5.7 milligrams iron (32 percent DV)
• 242 milligrams phosphorus (24 percent DV)
• 0.4 milligram riboflavin (21 percent DV)
• 11.6 milligrams vitamin C (19 percent DV)
• 0.3 milligram thiamine (17 percent DV)
• 64.6 micrograms folate (16 percent DV)
• 2.3 milligrams zinc (15 percent DV)
• 2.6 milligrams niacin (13 percent DV)

Clams are also packed with protein and one of the best sources of vitamin B12 available. A three-ounce serving of cooked clams contains approximately: (4)

• 126 calories
• 4.4 grams carbohydrates
• 21.7 grams protein
• 1.7 grams fat
• 84.1 micrograms vitamin B12 (1,401 percent DV)
• 23.8 milligrams iron (132 percent DV)
• 54.4 micrograms selenium (78 percent DV)
• 0.9 milligram manganese (43 percent DV)
• 18.8 milligrams vitamin C (31 percent DV)
• 0.6 milligram copper (29 percent DV)
• 287 milligrams phosphorus (29 percent DV)
• 0.4 milligram riboflavin (21 percent DV)
• 2.3 milligrams zinc (15 percent DV)
• 534 milligrams potassium (15 percent DV)
• 2.9 milligrams niacin (14 percent DV)
• 485 IU vitamin A (10 percent DV)

Finally, scallops contain a good chunk of protein but are lower in many micronutrients than other types of bivalves. A three-ounce serving of cooked scallops contains approximately: (5)

• 94.2 calories
• 19.5 grams protein
• 23.4 micrograms selenium (33 percent DV)
• 283.8 milligrams phosphorus (27 percent DV)
• 1.2 micrograms vitamin B12 (18 percent DV)
• 2.4 milligrams zinc (18 percent DV)
• 2.4 milligrams iron (15 percent DV)

Potential Bivalve Benefits

1. May Protect Against Anemia

Anemia is a condition caused by a lack of healthy red blood cells in the body, resulting in anemia symptoms like fatigue, pale skin and dizziness. Anemia can stem from chronic disease, blood loss, certain gastrointestinal disorders, and most commonly, a deficiency in important vitamins and minerals involved in red blood cell production.

Most types of bivalves are jam-packed with both vitamin B12 and iron, two nutrients that can help prevent anemia. In fact, even just one serving of clams can meet and exceed your daily requirements for both iron and vitamin B12. Getting enough of these two micronutrients can protect against conditions like iron-deficiency anemia and pernicious anemia to keep your red blood cells healthy and prevent negative symptoms.

2. Lower Risk of Heavy Metal Contamination

One of the common concerns when it comes to eating seafood is an increased risk of exposure to heavy metals like mercury. This is especially common in certain kinds of fish, such as king mackerel, swordfish and tilefish, because they are higher up on the food chain and absorb a higher amount of mercury from their prey.

Mercury poisoning can cause symptoms like numbness, pain, rashes, tremors, memory problems and even death in extreme cases. Consuming a high amount of mercury during pregnancy can also increase the risk of birth defects, such as cognitive deficits, motor difficulties and sensory problems. (6)

Bivalves are considered filter feeders, meaning they’re toward the bottom of the food chain. While many people think this means that they eat the junk that builds up on the bottom of the ocean, such as parasites, feces and decomposing fish, this is actually not the case. So what do bivalves eat? While some types of bivalves are carnivorous, the types that are commonly consumed use their gills to draw in phytoplankton and algae while filtering out larger particles. Because of their unique diet, bivalves are less likely to accumulate heavy metals like mercury, making them a safer option than some other seafood varieties. (7)

3. Good Source of Protein

Certain types of bivalves are considered high protein foods. Mussels, clams and scallops, in particular, are loaded with protein and can supply up to a whopping 22 grams in a single serving.

Protein plays a central role in nearly every aspect of health. Not only do proteins form the foundation of the skin, hair and nails, but they also function as antibodies to protect against infection, as enzymes to help catalyze chemical reactions in the body and as messenger proteins to transmit signals between cells. (8) Getting enough protein each day is also vital to everything from muscle growth to the regulation of blood pressure. (9, 10)

4. High in Antioxidants

Antioxidants are compounds that work to neutralize harmful free radicals and prevent damage to cells. Research shows that antioxidants can help reduce oxidative stress, minimize inflammation, and lower the risk of chronic conditions like heart disease, cancer and diabetes. (11)

Bivalves are high in several nutrients that act as antioxidants in the body. Selenium, for example, protects against oxidative stress and has been shown to have beneficial effects when it comes to immunity, heart health and cancer prevention. (12) Zinc can also decrease markers of inflammation and reduce the incidence of infection thanks to its antioxidant properties. (13) Additionally, vitamin C has also been shown to act as an antioxidant and can have a powerful effect on disease prevention. (14)

5. Aids in Weight Loss

Bivalves are low in calories but high in protein and essential nutrients, making them an ideal dietary addition if you’re looking to shed a few extra pounds. Mussels, clams and scallops, in particular, are especially rich in protein and can help keep you feeling full to ward off cravings and reduce appetite.

According to a study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, eating a high-protein meal can reduce levels of ghrelin, the hunger hormone, more effectively than eating a meal high in carbs. (15) Another study out of Seattle showed that increasing protein intake by just 15 percent increased satiety and decreased daily caloric intake by an impressive 441 calories, resulting in significant losses in body weight and fat mass. (16)

Bivalve Dangers and Side Effects

Although adding bivalves to your diet may come with some benefits to health, there are some side effects that need to be considered as well.

First and foremost, those with a shellfish allergy should definitely not be eating bivalves. Shellfish allergies are one of the leading causes of food allergies in the world, affecting an estimated 2.2 percent of adults in the United States. (17)

Common shellfish food allergy symptoms can include itching, hives, swelling, difficulty breathing, abdominal pain and dizziness. If you experience these or any other symptoms after eating bivalves or another type of shellfish, discontinue use immediately and talk to your doctor.

Eating certain types of raw seafood, such as oysters, can also come with some food safety concerns. Certain strains of Vibrio bacteria inhabit coastal regions where oysters are found. Eating raw oysters that have been infected with Vibrio bacteria can cause symptoms like diarrhea, vomiting and skin lesions. Cooking your oysters and bivalves thoroughly is the best way to prevent infection. (18)

Another health concern associated with bivalve consumption is the risk of dangerous toxins that can cause several types of shellfish poisoning. Because bivalves use filter feeding, harmful bacteria and toxins from the algae that they consume can build up in the tissues and be passed onto humans.

The three main categories of shellfish poisoning include paralytic shellfish poisoning (PSP), amnesic shellfish poisoning (ASP) and diarrhetic shellfish poisoning (DSP). These conditions are caused by toxins that can accumulate in bivalves, causing neurological, gastrointestinal and respiratory symptoms that can even be fatal in extreme cases.

Unfortunately, these toxins are not destroyed with cooking, making it all the more important to follow a few basic rules of thumb when eating bivalves. Here are a few guidelines to follow to minimize the potential dangers: (19)

• Be sure to only eat bivalves from “open areas,” which are safe harvest areas that are regularly monitored and tested to lower the risk of contamination.
• Avoid eating bivalves when traveling to developing countries where food safety standards may not be as high.
• Keep bivalves frozen or refrigerated until ready to use.
• Only purchase and consume shellfish from trustworthy, reputable suppliers.
• Seek medical attention immediately if you feel ill after consuming bivalves.

Bivalves vs. Other Shellfish

Shellfish can be broken up into two main categories: mollusks and crustaceans. Shrimp, crab and lobster fall into the crustacean group of shellfish while bivalves are a type of mollusk.

So what is a mollusk? The mollusk definition incorporates nearly 85,000 species of invertebrate animals belonging to the Mollusca phylum. Some mollusks characteristics include a soft body, an internal or external shell, and a muscular foot that aids in movement. In addition to bivalves, other mollusk examples include slugs, snails, squids, cuttlefish and octopuses. (20)

Crustaceans, on the other hand, have a segmented body and hard exoskeleton as well as three mouthparts, two eyes and two pairs of antennae.

Most people with an allergy to shellfish are allergic to both mollusks and crustaceans. In some cases, you may be able to tolerate some types of shellfish, but doctors generally recommend avoiding all shellfish if you have an allergy.

Bivalves and shellfish share some similarities in terms of nutrition. Like bivalves, most shellfish varieties tend to be low in calories but high in protein as well as micronutrients like selenium, niacin and vitamin B12.

Shellfish are a common dietary staple for many around the world. However, like bivalves, certain types of shellfish can come with significant health concerns.

Shrimp, for example, make the list of health foods you should never eat thanks to their content of additives and extra ingredients as well as the pesticides and chemicals used in industrialized shrimp production. (21) Not only that, but shrimp are considered bottom feeders, meaning they scavenge the ocean floor and feed on the waste that collects there.

Much like raw oysters, other types of uncooked shellfish can also be affected by strains of bacteria, such as Vibrio parahaemolyticus and Vibrio vulnificus. It’s important to cook shellfish thoroughly to minimize your risk of infection.

Bivalve Recipes + Healthier Alternatives

If you’re looking to enjoy your favorite bivalve recipes while minimizing the risk of consuming dangerous toxins and bacteria, have no fear. There are plenty of healthy and safe alternatives available that are equally rich in both nutrients and flavor. In fact, foods like king oyster mushrooms can effectively mimic the taste of scallops and clams while bringing their own dose of hearty health benefits.

Here are a few other ideas of some classic recipes to get you started:

• Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Chowder
• King Oyster Mushroom Scallops
• Mock Clam Dip
• Vegan Gumbo
• Manhattan Chickpea Chowder

History

Bivalves are believed to have been around for millions of years, with the first appearances of the bivalve fossil dating back to the Cambrian era, around 510 millions years ago. They are thought to have evolved from rostroconchs, a class of extinct mollusks with a single shell and a muscular foot similar to that found in the modern bivalve.

Bivalves have been harvested for consumption for many years. Oysters, for example, have been cultivated in Japan since 2000 B.C. and can be traced back nearly 10,000 years in Australia. Mussels, clams and scallops have also been enjoyed for thousands of years around the world.

Bivalves also hold historical significance in many forms of art, culture and religion. Scallops signify fertility and can be spotted in many prominent paintings, such as Botticelli’s “The Birth of Venus.” Clams, on the other hand, have been worshipped by the Moche civilization in ancient Peru and were even used as a form of currency by the Algonquin Indians.

Precautions

If you have a shellfish allergy, you should avoid consuming bivalves as well as other types of shellfish like shrimp, lobster and crab. A shellfish allergy can trigger symptoms like itching, swelling, abdominal pain and even anaphylaxis.

Additionally, be sure to cook bivalves thoroughly to reduce the risk of certain strains of bacteria, such as Vibrio. If you experience any negative symptoms after eating bivalves, seek medical attention immediately. In addition to bacteria, contaminated bivalves may also contain toxins that can pose serious health problems.

To reduce the risk of adverse side effects, be sure to only consume bivalves harvested from open areas that are regularly inspected, buy from a trusted and reputable supplier, avoid eating bivalves when traveling to developing countries, and keep them refrigerated or frozen until you’re ready to use them.

Final Thoughts

• Bivalves belong to the mollusk phylum of animals. Some of the common bivalves characteristics include two shells that protect a soft inner body, tube-like siphons for eating and breathing and a muscular foot that opens and closes the shell.
• Although there are over 10,000 species of bivalves, the most common edible types include mussels, clams, oysters and scallops.
• Bivalves are low in calories but high in protein, vitamin B12, selenium, zinc and magnesium.
• Potential bivalve benefits include protection from anemia, improved weight loss and a lower risk of heavy metal contamination.
• However, bivalves can pass on dangerous bacteria and toxins to humans, many of which are not killed off with cooking.
• Practicing a few basic rules of thumb is key to consuming bivalves safely and minimizing your risk of infection and negative side effects.

Read Next: Are Oyster Mushrooms Good for You? 5 Surprising Oyster Mushroom Benefits

The post Bivalve Pros & Cons: Should You Eat Mollusk? appeared first on Dr. Axe.

With its unique hearty, nutty and earthy taste, porcini mushrooms are a delicious way to amp up the flavor of just about any dish while also adding a boost of nutrition and health benefits.

These mushrooms are loaded with iron, fiber and antioxidants. They’re also high in protein and have a meaty, savory taste that can be incorporated perfectly into vegetarian and vegan meals.

Plus, they come with many health benefits and may help improve digestive health, promote weight loss, reduce inflammation and even kill off colon cancer cells.

From porcini pasta to stews and soups, it’s clear that this powerful mushroom can be a great way to help take your health to the next level.

What Are Porcini Mushrooms?

Also known as cepes, pennybuns or their scientific name, Boletus edulis, porcini mushrooms are a type of edible mushroom found across the Northern Hemisphere, including in parts of North America, Europe and Asia.

The mushrooms come from a type of fungus that forms a symbiotic relationship with trees. Fungal tissue is wrapped around the roots of the tree underground, and spore-bearing fruit is produced above ground in the summer and fall.

They are characterized by a thick, white stalk between three to five inches tall and a dark brown cap. They also have an earthy, woodsy flavor that works well in a wide array of dishes, from soups to pastas — much like other mushrooms, such as lion’s mane mushrooms.

Benefits of Porcini Mushrooms

1. Aid weight loss
2. Reduce inflammation
3. May kill colon cancer cells
4. High in antioxidants
5. Promote digestive health
6. Good source of protein

1. Aid in Weight Loss

The porcini mushroom is low in calories but loaded with protein and fiber, making it a valuable tool for any weight loss diet.

Fiber moves through the gastrointestinal tract undigested, promoting fullness and keeping your appetite under control.

Protein, on the other hand, can help increase weight loss in several ways. It decreases levels of certain hormones that stimulate hunger such as ghrelin, boosts metabolism and reduces caloric intake. (1, 2, 3)

Protein also requires more calories to digest than carbohydrates or fat, meaning that you end up with a smaller amount of usable calories when you eat high-protein foods like porcini mushrooms than foods high in fat or carbohydrates. (4)

2. Reduce Inflammation

Chronic inflammation is associated with a wide range of health problems, from rheumatoid arthritis and asthma to peptic ulcer disease. It has also been shown to contribute to the development of chronic diseases, such as cancer and heart disease. (5)

Some studies have found that the porcini mushroom may contain potent anti-inflammatory properties that can help decrease symptoms of certain inflammation-related conditions.

A recent 2016 animal study published in the American Journal of Translational Research, for instance, treated mice with porcini mushroom extract and found that it decreased markers of inflammation as well as the inflammatory response related to asthma. (6)

3. May Kill Colon Cancer Cells

One of the most impressive benefits of porcini mushrooms is their potential effect on colon cancer. In fact, some studies have found that these tiny mushrooms contain powerful compounds that can help kill off cancer cells.

A test-tube study published in the journal Food & Function showed that porcini mushroom extract was able to induce cell death in human colon cancer cells. (7) Other studies have had similar findings, reporting that the compounds found in porcini mushrooms can block the growth and spread of colon cancer cells. (8, 9)

Additionally, porcini mushrooms are a high-fiber food, which may be protective against colorectal cancer. Several studies have found that increased fiber intake is associated with a decreased risk of colorectal cancer. (10, 11, 12)

4. High in Antioxidants

Porcini mushrooms are high in antioxidants, which are compounds that neutralize free radicals and prevent damage to cells.

A study in Poland found that porcini mushrooms were high in many types of antioxidants, including beta-carotene, ascorbic acid and lycopene. (13)

Antioxidants can reduce oxidative stress linked to the buildup of free radicals and may even decrease the risk of certain diseases like inflammatory disorders, such as heart disease and cancer. (14)

In addition to porcini mushrooms, other high antioxidant foods include berries, artichokes, dark chocolate and kidney beans.

5. Promote Digestive Health

Thanks to their high fiber content, porcini mushrooms may be able to improve digestive health, prevent constipation and boost regularity.

As fiber moves through the body, it adds bulk to stool and eases its passage to reduce constipation. One analysis made up of five studies showed that dietary fiber was effective in increasing stool frequency in those with constipation. (15)

Meanwhile, other studies have also found that increased dietary fiber intake may benefit several conditions that affect the digestive system, including gastroesophageal reflux, diverticulitis and peptic ulcer disease. (16, 17)

6. Good Source of Protein

Just one ounce of dried porcini mushrooms contains an impressive seven grams of protein, knocking out a pretty big chunk of your daily protein needs in just one serving.

Thanks to the meaty, rich taste, porcini mushrooms can be a useful addition to vegetarian or vegan dishes to provide some extra flavor along with a boost of protein and iron.

Getting enough protein from protein foods like porcini mushrooms is essential to many aspects of health, from maintaining muscle mass to building and repairing tissues. As mentioned previously, protein can also help keep your weight in check, plus maintain normal blood sugar levels and promote brain and heart health.

In addition to porcini mushrooms, meat, poultry, seafood, legumes, eggs and nuts are all other nutritious options for increasing your protein intake.

Porcini Mushroom Uses

Porcini mushrooms are incredibly versatile and able to bring a unique, earthy flavor to many dishes.

Fresh porcini is often grilled or oven-roasted. It can also be added to porcini mushroom pasta, risotto, casserole or gratin.

If you have a favorite mushroom recipe that uses cremini mushrooms or portobello mushrooms, for example, you can generally swap in porcini mushrooms to add a unique flavor and boost of extra nutrients. For many recipes, using a porcini mushroom substitute can taste just as good as — if not better than — the original.

The porcini mushroom price can often turn people away as it does tend to be expensive in some places. However, dried or canned mushrooms are another convenient and affordable option available as well.

Dried porcini mushroom and canned mushrooms can be used to make porcini mushroom sauce along with soups or stews. Remember to soak dried mushrooms for 20 minutes to allow them to soften before using.

Porcini Mushroom Nutrition

Porcini mushrooms are low in calories but rich in many important nutrients, including protein, dietary fiber and iron.

One ounce (28 grams) of dried porcini mushrooms contains approximately: (18)

• 105 calories
• 14 grams carbohydrates
• 7 grams protein
• 0 grams fat
• 7 grams dietary fiber
• 5 milligrams iron (28 percent DV)

In addition to the above nutrients, porcini mushrooms also contain vitamin A, vitamin C and calcium.

Porcini vs. Shiitake

Porcini mushrooms are often compared to shiitake mushrooms thanks to their similar earthy, meaty flavor. However, there are many distinct differences between these two types of popular mushrooms.

While shiitake is typically cultivated, porcini mushrooms are usually wild because they require a host plant to grow. Shiitake mushrooms also tend to have more of a garlicky flavor with less earthiness than porcini mushrooms.

In terms of nutrition, dried shiitake mushrooms are lower in calories but also contain less iron and less than half of the fiber and protein found in dried porcini mushrooms.

However, both types of mushrooms can be a healthy addition to your diet. Include a few servings per week of both to a nutritious and well-balanced diet, and take advantage of the many health benefits they each have to offer.

Where to Find Them

Fresh porcini mushrooms are available in the summer and fall and can be found in the soil around trees, especially beech and birch trees. Be sure to wipe away any dirt and use a damp cloth or towel to clean it, but avoid washing directly in hot water.

However, if you don’t have the extra time to go mushroom hunting and pick them yourself and are wondering where to buy porcini mushrooms, you can also often find these small mushrooms at your local grocery store or farmers market.

Look for mushrooms that are firm and undamaged, and avoid any with small holes that may indicate worms. You can also check under the cap and look for black spots or a dark green color, which mean that the mushrooms are likely already overripe.

You can also find canned and dried porcini mushrooms in most supermarkets as well as online. Although not as versatile as fresh mushrooms, these can be used to add flavor and nutrients to a variety of dishes.

Porcini Mushroom Recipes

Porcini mushrooms can be easily incorporated into any recipe that calls for mushrooms and can be used in either dried or fresh form. Here are a few porcini mushroom recipes for you to try:

• Baked Italian Chicken with Mushrooms and Artichokes
• Mushroom Soup
• Miso Soup with Mushrooms
• Porcini Mushroom Risotto

History

Porcini mushrooms are known by many different names around the world. For example, in Germany, these mushrooms are known as Steinpilz, or stone mushroom, because of their firmness, while the English refer to the porcini mushroom as the penny bun because of its shape and color.

Other names for the porcini mushroom include cèpe in French, belyy grib, which means “white mushroom,” in Russian and eekhoorntjesbrood, meaning “squirrel bread” in Dutch.

In Italian, they are called porcino, which comes from the word “porcine,” or pig. In fact, ancient Romans even referred to this mushroom as the hog mushroom.

While porcini mushrooms are common in many types of European cuisine, they are just beginning to gain popularity in other parts of the world and becoming a common ingredient in soups, sauces, pasta dishes and more.

Precautions

Porcini mushrooms may cause an allergic reaction in some people. If you experience any adverse side effects after eating porcini mushrooms, discontinue use immediately and report symptoms to your doctor.

Avoid eating porcini mushrooms raw as they can they irritate the stomach. Also note that the stalks of the mushrooms sometimes contain worms. If drying out your mushrooms, these worms will fall out during the process, but if eating fresh, be sure to cut around the worms.

Additionally, use caution when picking your own mushrooms and avoid picking near industrial sites, highways or train tracks. This is because heavy metals and toxins can accumulate in mushrooms and cause health problems and toxicity. Mushrooms from non-contaminated areas are safe to consume, however.

For most, porcini mushrooms can be a delicious and nutritious dietary addition and can be enjoyed with minimal risk of side effects.

Final Thoughts

• Porcini mushrooms are a type of edible mushroom known by their scientific name, Boletus edulis.
• These mushrooms can be grilled or used in many dishes, including soups, stews and pastas.
• You can find these flavorful mushrooms in nature or in dried, canned or fresh forms at your local grocery store or farmers market.
• These mushrooms are low in calories but supply a good amount of protein, fiber and iron.
• They are also high in antioxidants and may reduce inflammation, improve digestive health, promote weight loss and help kill off colon cancer cells, making them a healthy option to help give your diet an upgrade.

Read Next: Psilocybin Mushrooms Shown to Alleviate Both Depression & Anxiety in Cancer Patients

The post Porcini Mushrooms: 6 Reasons to Eat Them You Won’t Believe appeared first on Dr. Axe.

You may already be on the keto coffee train, but have you tried mushroom coffee? I know it sounds like a really bizarre combination, but this fungi-focused coffee is very trendy at the moment and only seems to be picking up steam. Lovers of the somewhat eccentric brew say that the earthy essence of mushrooms is a complementary addition to coffee that actually makes for a smoother overall flavor. Plus, you get even more antioxidants with less jitter-promoting caffeine.

So mushroom coffee may be gaining popularity, but is it healthy? Mushroom coffee gives you the health benefits of coffee along with the impressive benefits of mushrooms. Same goes for mushroom tea or mushroom hot chocolate. But these beverage options don’t use your typical culinary mushrooms. Instead, they add in medicinal mushrooms. Are medicinal mushrooms good for you? The short answer, which I’ll elaborate on shortly, is “yes.”

The nutrition-rich mushrooms used in mushroom coffee and mushroom tea include health powerhouses like cordyceps. Scientific research continues to show major health benefits of medicinal mushrooms ranging from boosting immune function to even improving brain cells, which means mushrooms may even help fight serious neurodegenerative issue like dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. (1)

If you’re interested in possibly taking your coffee nutrition to another level, then you may just want to try a hot cup of mushroom coffee. And don’t worry — it still tastes like coffee!

What Is Mushroom Coffee?

I know what you’re probably picturing: a hot cup of coffee ruined by some random spongey floating mushrooms. But don’t worry, this is not what I’m talking about here. Right now, there are different kinds of mushroom coffee being made by various companies, and it’s basically regular coffee infused with medicinal mushroom extracts.

Several companies are now making a powdered combination of instant coffee and mushrooms extracts. All you need to do is add hot water to create a cup of mushroom coffee. To create mushroom coffee mixes, mushroom extract powders are often created by by isolating and spray-drying different key constituents of medicinal mushrooms. Mushroom powder is touted as having the health benefits of mushrooms but at an even more concentrated level. (2)

There are also packets of mushroom extracts with healthy ingredients like organic peppermint and anise extracts along with some stevia. A packet like this can be added to your favorite tea to create a hot cup of mushroom tea.

There are all kinds of disease-fighting mushrooms. Some of the most common medicinal mushrooms used in mushroom tea and mushroom coffee include:

• Cordyceps
• Chaga
• Lion’s mane
• Turkey tail
• Reishi

Mushroom Coffee vs. Regular Coffee

Obviously the biggest difference between regular coffee and mushroom coffee is that the mushroom coffee contains mushrooms while regular coffee does not. When you drink mushroom coffee, you get all of the benefits of drinking coffee plus the benefits of mushrooms.

While regular coffee can attribute to anxiety and insomnia thanks to all that caffeine, the addition of mushroom is said to result in a more balanced cup of joe. So while a regular cup of coffee can leave some people feeling on edge and wide awake when they want to be counting sheep, makers and drinkers of mushroom coffee say it’s not as likely to make health concerns like anxiety and insomnia worse. (3)

Prepackaged or instant mushroom coffee is also said to be lower in caffeine and less acidic than regular coffee, which makes sense because most mushroom coffee mixtures are equal parts mushroom and coffee. So a cup of mushroom coffee typically has half of the caffeine of a regular cup.

How does mushroom coffee taste? Makers as well as drinkers of mushroom coffee say it does not taste like mushrooms at all. They even say that the mushrooms that are added actually have a similar taste to coffee itself!

Health Benefits

1. Anticancer

Some components of mushrooms have been shown to stimulate the immune system in such a way that certain mushrooms appear to exert antitumor and anticancer activity. A 2015 study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology looked at a type of mushroom that’s commonly used in mushroom coffee (even way back in the 1940s). It’s called the chaga mushroom. The researchers found that ergosterol peroxide, a derivative of the chaga mushroom, exhibited impressive anticancer activities in human colorectal cancer cell lines.

The study concludes that the data demonstrates how chaga mushroom’s ergosterol peroxide can suppress the proliferation of human colorectal cancer cell lines, and it also successfully inhibited colon cancer linked to colitis in animal subjects.

Overall, the researchers conclude, “These properties of ergosterol peroxide advocate its use as a supplement in colon cancer chemoprevention.” (4) Cancer chemoprevention is the use of a substances to stop cancer from developing, making mushroom coffee a cancer-fighting food.

2. Loaded with Antioxidants

One of the top coffee benefits of its rich antioxidant content. Scientific research has shown that an average cup of coffee may be even higher in disease-fighting and anti-aging antioxidants than than cocoa, green tea, black tea and herbal tea. (5)

Most coffee health benefits can traced back to this high level of antioxidants. Mushrooms also contain significant levels of antioxidants, especially glutathione and ergothioneine. (6) As such, mushroom coffee really packs a literal double punch of antioxidants in a single cup, but why is this so great for your health? Decades of scientific research have shown that the more antioxidant-rich foods you get in your diet, the more you can protect yourselves from all kinds of harmful diseases and health problems.

3. Decreases Oxidative Stress

One of the main reasons the antioxidants found in coffee beans and mushrooms are so health-protective is they provide defense against free radicals we’re exposed to in our daily lives (like air pollution, for example). Free radicals cause oxidative stress to humans, which can then cause cellular damage to our bodies.

Oxidative stress is believed to be a big part of a lot of serious and chronic diseases like cancer, diabetes, heart disease, Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease and serious eye diseases like cataracts. (7) Upping your antioxidant intake in your diet is a way of reducing oxidative stress on the body, which in turn may help to ward off all kinds of serious health issues.

4. Boosts Liver Health

You can find variations in what types of mushrooms are included in a mushroom coffee. One type you’re likely to see included is the reishi mushroom. The reishi mushroom is rich in adaptogens that may help improve liver function and prevent liver disease by encouraging waste and toxins to be flushed from the body more efficiently.

A 2013 study published in the International Journal of Medicinal Mushrooms found that reishi induces hepatoprotective effects on acute liver injury because it contains antioxidant properties and fights harmful immune responses that slow down liver function. (8)

5. Aids Digestive and Diabetic Health

Mushrooms are rich in polysaccharides, specifically bioactive ones called beta-glucans or homopolysaccharides. These special polysaccharides act as prebiotics in the digestive system that directly help boost digestive health in various ways.

These mushroom beta-glucans have also been shown in animal studies to decrease body weight, glucose levels, cholesterol and triglycerides in diabetic mice. The beta-glucans also appeared to have a very positive biochemical effect on insulin receptors that equated to improved insulin sensitivity. (9)

6. Focus without Jitters

Since most mushroom coffee on the market today uses a mixture of half coffee, half mushroom extract, when you switch to mushroom coffee from regular coffee, you should end up getting roughly half of the caffeine that you normally do. Of course, check packaging of a product for specifics, but with the addition of mushrooms to any coffee, the amount of caffeine naturally goes down.

Since caffeine in moderation can improve focus yet in excess produce jitters, mushroom coffee can give that same focus benefit, but with the addition of adaptogenic or medicinal mushroom extracts the likelihood of nervous energy after a cup becomes less likely.

Interesting Facts

There actually is some very interesting history to mushroom coffee. During World War II, some of the most common things we know and love today were hard to come by. I’m talking about items like coffee.

There have been some very interesting alternatives to coffee that people have come up with throughout the years, including things like roasted barley as well as chaga mushrooms. That’s right — in Finland during the 1940s people were actually using their native chaga mushroom as a wartime coffee substitute.

The founder of one current mushroom coffee company says, “To our knowledge, our grandparents invented the concept of using chaga as a coffee substitute.” So back then, mushroom coffee came about as a result of lack of coffee availability, whereas today it’s becoming popular not because there’s a shortage of coffee, rather because people are looking to get more and more out of their coffee intake. (10)

Risks and Side Effects

Most purveyors of mushroom coffee recommend a max of two packets of mushroom coffee per day. Even though mushroom coffee typically has less caffeine than regular coffee, you still don’t want to risk a caffeine overdose.

For anyone with a known autoimmune disease (for example, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis), some doctors warn that medicinal mushrooms can worsen the problem. Because they stimulate the immune system, it’s possible that medicinal mushrooms can interfere with medications for these diseases or overactivate certain immune cells. The same warning goes for anyone with a known bleeding or blood clot disorder, since medicinal mushrooms can sometimes interfere with proper blood clotting.

Possible side effects and interactions of mushroom coffee can depend on the type of mushroom used so I suggest double-checking the specific side effects of the mushroom(s) in your mushroom coffee of choice.

If you have any ongoing health concerns or are taking any medication, definitely check with your doctor before drinking mushroom coffee or mushroom tea. It’s also possible to have an allergy to mushrooms. If you have an allergy or intolerance to mushrooms, you should not consume mushroom tea or mushroom coffee.

Final Thoughts

Mushroom coffee offers another intriguing option in the world of hot beverages, especially for lovers of coffee who are looking for the possibility of more health benefits or just a cup of coffee that leaves them feeling less jittery yet still has a lot of flavor.

People not only enjoy the taste of mushroom coffee, but many drinkers claim that they enjoy the health benefits. One of the most common perks you hear mushroom coffee drinkers raving about is having energy and focus yet not feeling shaky. Of course, mushroom coffee still contains a significant amount of caffeine so it should still be enjoyed in moderation.

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