5 mushroom varieties that you must add to your diet | Photo Credit: iStock Images
New Delhi:Mushrooms are popularly consumed foods that are neither fruit nor vegetable. These are a type of fungus that currently has over 10000 known varieties. Due to their fleshy texture and chewy consistency, mushrooms are also a popular meat substitute for vegetarians and vegans,
Mushrooms are rich in fibre, antioxidants, vitamin D, B vitamins, copper, phosphorous, potassium, and selenium. These bell-shaped foods are low in calories and come with various health benefits. From heart health to cognitive function, the consumption of mushrooms can help enhance health significantly. Furthermore, the presence of polysaccharides inculcates prebiotic properties in mushrooms making them good for gut health.
Here are some varieties of mushrooms that can be found in India:
Button mushrooms: This is the most commonly found variety of mushroom and also go by the names table mushroom, white mushroom, etc. Its botanical name is Agaricus bisporus. Some common health benefits of button mushrooms include improved cognitive health, improved heart health, and more. Button mushrooms are small with short stems and a smooth cap.
Shiitake mushrooms: With caps resembling an umbrella, Shiitake mushrooms are brown with short stems and are popularly consumed in parts of East Asia. Its botanical name is Lentinula edodes. These varieties have a cholesterol-lowering compound known as eritadenine. Apart from having anti-inflammatory properties, shiitake mushrooms can also boost immunity.
Maitake mushrooms: This variety is also known as the dancing mushroom or hen of the woods and the cluster of its caps resembles a flower. Its botanical name is Grifola frondosa. Maitake mushrooms are healthy due to their low calorie, fat, and cholesterol content.
Enoki mushrooms: Only a few mushroom varieties are safe to be eaten raw and enoki mushrooms are one of them. Enoki mushrooms are also known as velvet shank and have a small cap with a long, thin stem.Its botanical name is Flammulina velutipes. This delicious variety can be eaten cooked or raw and can help boost immunity, enhance heart and brain health.
Oyster mushrooms: Also known as hiratake mushrooms, these edible fungi have very short or no stem and caps shaped like an oyster. Its botanical name is Pleurotus ostreatus. The most common variety of oyster mushrooms is the pearl oyster and some other varieties may include golden oyster, pink oyster, and phoenix oyster. This variety can help regulate blood sugar levels, boost immunity, and improve gut health.
Disclaimer: Tips and suggestions mentioned in the article are for general information purpose only and should not be construed as professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or a dietician before starting any fitness programme or making any changes to your diet.
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Are you a mushroom lover? 5 varieties that you must add to your diet - Times Now
