9 Amazing Health Benefits of White Button Mushrooms

White Button Mushrooms have become quite popular in recent years. They are rich in fiber, low in calories and also contain other nutrients such as calcium, magnesium and potassium. These mushrooms are widely consumed across Asia, Europe and North America. Asian countries like China, Japan and India are their biggest consumers.

Many studies suggest that white button mushrooms are the source of Vitamin D and have numerous health benefits; they are highly nutritious and very good for our body. The Health Benefits of White Button Mushrooms include anti-cancer properties, immune system support, improved digestive function, protection from cardiovascular disease and more.

Although mushrooms are high in fiber, they have a relatively low-calorie count. As a result, these mushrooms are suitable for those who want to control their weight. Other than being low in calories and fat, the white mushrooms also benefit by providing essential minerals that help keep your heart healthy. Below is a list of some amazing health benefits of white button mushrooms:

1. Anti-Cancer Properties

Researchers at the University of Illinois tested 20 types of edible wild and cultivated fresh mushrooms. The results showed that all the white mushrooms were effective in preventing cancer cells from spreading but white button mushrooms were found to be most effective. In fact, laboratory tests indicate white button mushrooms can prevent tumor cell formation, inhibit growth and kill cancerous tumors. This makes them a potent tool against cancer.

2. Immune System Support

These are well known for their ability to boost the immune system. When fresh mushrooms are ingested on a regular basis, it helps reduce infections caused by colds and flu. It also strengthens the immune system’s natural defense mechanisms against microbes. For instance, when you get sick with measles or herpes simplex virus type 1 (cold sores), take two to three servings of fresh white button mushrooms daily until you recover.

3. Improved Digestive Function

When we consume too much red meat or dairy products, this causes bloating and gas problems due to fermentation. However, eating white button mushrooms before going to bed will minimize these symptoms. Also, consuming mushrooms before meals can help you digest food better.

4. Protection Against Cardiovascular Disease

Most people already know how important it is to exercise every day while dieting. But did you know that consuming white button mushrooms could improve overall cardiovascular health? Studies show that mushrooms contain compounds that give the same blood thinner effect as aspirin. Eating white button mushrooms regularly can reduce the risk of heart attack, stroke, atherosclerosis, vascular diseases, angina pectoris and hypertension.

5. High Fiber Intake Is Good for Our Bowels

Did you know that most fruits and vegetables contain less fiber than white button mushrooms, yet they have no negative side effects? Mushrooms, on the other hand, are rich in insoluble dietary fibers, such as cellulose, hemicelluloses, lignin, and chitin. These fiber components not only maintain bowel movements but also strengthen intestinal walls. On top of that, scientists claim that these compounds provide protection against colon cancer since they help lower levels of cholesterol in our bodies. They even say that if you eat one serving of cooked mushrooms daily, you may avoid developing colon cancer. And let’s face it, colorectal cancer is an annoying disease that affects millions of people around the globe.

6. Treats Bladder Infection

Many medical experts agree that cooking and ingesting white button mushrooms increases urine flow. That’s why many hospitals use white button mushrooms in treating bladder infections. If you suffer from frequent yeast infections, your doctor might recommend taking raw white button mushrooms instead.

7. Promotes Weight Loss

Most people who eat white button mushrooms experience a feeling of fullness after just two small servings. Some reports suggest that consuming more than 12 ounces of cooked mushrooms helps you lose weight faster. Another study shows that eating six cups of green peas per week boosts fat loss. White button mushrooms offer similar benefits.

8. Boosts Blood Pressure

The anti-hypertensive properties of white button mushrooms make them a good choice for those who are dealing with high blood pressure. Consuming about six to eigh
t mushrooms per day has been proven effective in reducing systolic and diastolic pressures as compared to control groups.

9. Promotes Heart Health

This nutritional powerhouse contains selenium, a mineral known to prevent heart attacks. According to a Harvard University study, adults who regularly consume mushrooms containing selenium reduce their chances of suffering from cardiovascular diseases. Also, mushrooms contain polypeptides that nourish the heart muscles and lower cholesterol levels. They also may lower blood pressure and fight against oxidative stress.

These are generally considered healthy due to their high nutritional value and relatively small size. It has been proven that eating several servings per week of white button mushrooms reduces cholesterol levels and increases insulin sensitivity. In addition, this mushroom is an excellent source of dietary fibers, vitamins B1, B6 and C, iron and zinc. Due to their delicate flavor, mushrooms are often used in soups, sauces and salads.