Mushrooms are the overlooked superfood!
Mushrooms are such a wonderful gift from nature. They are high in potassium, selenium and B vitamins and act as powerful immune stimulants. They spring up in the rainy and cold season, eager to protect us from any sickness that may lie ahead in the harsh winter. I can't quite understand how these potent fungi are so often overlooked as a superfood when they are frequently locally sourced, and abundant.Although I love portobello and button mushrooms, I want to draw your attention to some of the more exotic fungi superstars. These are all high in infection fighting properties as they increase white blood cells, cytokines, neutrophills and phagocytes while stimulating apoptosis (cell suicide which cancer cells are resistant to). All of these contribute to a cancer protective immune system. I believe medicinal mushrooms should be regularly consumed and I personally aim to eat them at least once a week.
These are some wild St. George mushrooms that I found in a field. I was hesitant to eat them but remember something my friend Daniel told me after wearing a fedora to a wedding. "Big risk, Big reward". They were delicious and I didn't die.Different varieties of medicinal mushrooms:Shiitake- One of the more popular varieties. Have been used for cancer, immune stimulation, cholesterol reduction and HIV treatment.Maitake- Best known for its anti-tumor and immune stimulating properties due to high levels of B-glucans. Helps to regulate blood sugar and cholesterol levels.Reishi- Like the others it is shown to stimulate the immune system and fight cancer but it also reduces blood pressure, acts as a natural anti-histamine, making it protective against athsma and allergies, protects the liver and supports the endocrine system. The Reishi mushroom is most commonly used as a tea or as a powder sprinkled on food or encapsulated.Cordyceps- The most widely used medicinal mushroom. Unlike other fungi, they are a parasitic mushroom meaning they grow from an insect host rather than plant. But don't let that deter you. They have plenty anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor and anti-aging effects. They are also abundant in amino acids which are crucial for neurotransmitter production and brain health. Cordyceps are proven to fight fatigue and improve cardiovascular health as they increase blood flow and ATP production. This makes them a popular supplement for athletes and is even used for Hepatitis B treatment.If you're interested in adding vitamins and supplements to your diet, mushrooms are the food for you. They are filled with antioxidants and immune supporting properties that when come from another form such as a multi-vitamin, are often not absorbed by the body. So rather than buying some organic, GMO free vitamins that will pass right through you, head to the bulk section at your local health food store and buy some dried Shiitakes and a Reishi tea. Do you eat mushrooms? Whats your favorite way to get them into your diet? Shared at Urban Naturale
