15 Edible Mushrooms And Their Health Benefits

Mushrooms, often categorized as vegetables and commonly found in supermarket produce sections, are actually fungi. All mushrooms are low in calories and fat and provide such important nutrients as potassium, selenium, riboflavin, niacin, and vitamin D. Here are some healthy mushrooms to consider.

White Button

White button mushrooms are the most popular of all varieties of mushrooms. White buttons are packed with nutrients including digestive enzymes and many of the B vitamins essential to good health. White buttons have also been shown in studies to contain a cancer-fighting substance called conjugated linoleic acid or CLA.

Shiitake

Shiitake mushrooms have many health benefits along with an enjoyable smoky flavor. Shiitakes support the immune system and protect heart health. Shiitakes are also a good source of iron.

Reishi

Reishi mushrooms support the body's immune system and have been shown to be helpful in fighting cancer. Reishi mushroom studies have shown that they can slow down the growth of tumors. These mushrooms can also protect the body against stroke and heart disease.

Maitake

The Japanese maitake mushroom, also called, "hen of the woods", has several health benefits. Maitakes have anticancer and antiviral properties. Maitake mushrooms also help to control blood sugar levels and high blood pressure.

Oyster

Oyster mushrooms boost the immune system. Eaten raw or cooked, oyster mushrooms have antioxidant properties that protect cells. Studies have also shown that they have significant anti-bacterial activity.

Chanterelle

Chanterelle mushrooms, which grow all over the world, are a great source of protein. Chanterelles provide many essential B vitamins. These mushrooms are also a good source of dietary fiber, potassium, zinc, and copper.

Porcini

Porcini mushrooms are usually sold dried instead of in their natural state, so they will need to be soaked in hot water before they can be used. Porcini mushrooms are low in calories and are a great source of fiber. They are also very high in potassium so caution should be used by those who need to restrict their potassium intake.

Shimeji

Shimeji mushrooms are a good source of protein. They also contain many of the B vitamins, potassium, zinc, and copper. Shimejis are another excellent source of dietary fiber.

Enoki

Enoki mushrooms have long, white stems and are known as "snow puffs" in Japan. Enokis are low in calories and a great source of protein. Enokis are also very rich in niacin and B vitamins.

Crimini

Crimini mushrooms, which are quite common button-type mushrooms, have been shown to provide anti-inflammatory benefits. These mushrooms also protect against cardiovascular disease and blood flow problems. Crimini mushrooms also contain conjugated linoleic acid or CLA which may lower the risk of some types of breast cancer.

King Trumpet

The King Trumpet mushroom is firm and meaty with a mild flavor. King trumpets are a healthy meat substitute as they are rich in protein without the fat that is present in red meat. These mushrooms also support healthy cholesterol levels.

White and Brown Beech

White and Brown Beech mushrooms have a buttery, nutty flavor and are crunchy and firm in texture. These mushrooms are a good source of antioxidants and B vitamins. They also offer a significant source of niacin.

Portabello

Portabello mushrooms are large mushrooms which are tan with a dark underside. They are low in calories, fat free and a rich source of copper, selenium, and niacin. Portabello mushrooms are actually the mature form of baby Crimini mushrooms so they offer the same health benefits.

Lactarius Salmonicolor

The Lactarius salmonicolor mushroom is a wild, edible mushroom which has strong medicinal properties. This mushroom contains antioxidants and radical scavenging components. The Lactarius salmonicolor mushroom may be more difficult to find than the other more common varieties of mushroom.

Turkey Tail

Turkey tail mushrooms have been studied in clinical trials in Asia. These studies have shown that the Turkey tail mushroom is beneficial in helping to rebuild the immune system in people who are being treated for a variety of different types of cancer. These mushrooms also contain strong anti-tumor and anti-bacterial agents.