"Lower your blood pressure and lose weight"… What happens to your body when you eat mushrooms frequently

Rich in protein and low in calories

Mushrooms are a representative high-protein, low-calorie food. They are rich in dietary fiber that provides a sense of fullness, and also contain large amounts of minerals such as vitamins, iron, and zinc. The dietary fiber in mushrooms helps eliminate harmful substances, waste products, and carcinogens from the intestines, and purifies the blood.

Helps activate immune function

Mushrooms are also excellent for boosting immune function. They help prevent inflammation and cancer, promote blood circulation, and contain bioactive substances that are beneficial to health. Additionally, ergosterol in mushrooms converts to vitamin D when exposed to ultraviolet sunlight, aiding calcium absorption in the intestines.

Cholesterol and blood pressure management

Among mushrooms, shiitake mushrooms have the most diverse bioactive compounds. In particular, they have the effect of lowering cholesterol and blood pressure levels, making them good to consume with oil-based foods or meat. In 2007, the American Heart Association ranked shiitake mushrooms as the top among the top 10 foods that increase good cholesterol and decrease bad cholesterol.

Prevention of various inflammatory diseases

Mushrooms are considered one of the best anti-inflammatory foods. Chronic inflammation increases the risk of various diseases such as arthritis, stroke, cancer, obesity, Alzheimer's disease, heart disease, and depression. When inflammation occurs, abnormalities in genes that suppress cancer can develop, leading to the spread of cancer. Several compounds found in mushrooms have been shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory effects, making them excellent for preventing chronic diseases and inflammation-related illnesses.

The chewy texture is good and it feels very filling.

Mushrooms also help with weight management. First, in terms of intake, they are low in calories and take more time to chew. They contain a lot of fluids and fiber, which promote a feeling of fullness. Additionally, they slow down gastric emptying and increase satiety. Previous studies have also shown that mushrooms alter the composition of gut microbiota and increase the levels of bacteria that prevent obesity.

Reduced risk of depression

Depression, one of the common mental health disorders among modern people. Mushrooms contain numerous bioactive compounds such as vitamin B12, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory agents, which may be related to reducing anxiety. According to a study conducted in the United States, based on data from 25,000 adult participants included in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey from 2005 to 2016, the level of depression was investigated among mushroom consumers. As a result, it was confirmed that people who regularly consume mushrooms have a lower probability of depression compared to participants with the lowest mushroom intake.

Relax blood vessels to lower blood pressure

High blood pressure is a risk factor for heart disease and stroke. Recent studies have shown that mushrooms contain bioactive compounds that help lower blood pressure. Some of these compounds relax blood vessels, facilitating smooth circulation.