5 Healthiest Mushrooms

1. Reisha Mushrooms

Reishi mushrooms or Ganoderma lucidium is a mushroom that has been in existence in China since 4000 years. It primarily serves a spiritual and medicinal purpose and is found on decaying surfaces, especially dead trees. However, due to its health benefits, it is being cultivated in various parts of Asia and North America. It is also assumed that this mushroom may help fend off cancer, arthritis and also helps strengthen the immune system. It must be noted that this mushroom is not for culinary purposes but is consumed in the form of capsules or dietary supplements.

2. Maitake Mushrooms

This large mushroom is primarily found in the Northeastern Mountains of Japan and North America. It is also called the “hen of the woods” because the outer part of the mushroom strongly resembles fluffy feathers. Unlike the previous mushroom, Maitake can be used for gourmet and it also contains cancer fighting elements in it. Apart from this, they also help in maintaining a normal blood sugar level. Its content includes beta-glucan, which aids in strengthening the immune system. This mushroom is not only delicious but also very good for the health.

3. Enoki

Enoki mushrooms tend to be quite small and have a very creamy texture. You only need to cook them for a very brief period of time and its taste is quite mild. They generally tend to be used in soups as well as salads, but people also use it for gourmet meals. This mushroom only contains a mere 28 calories and is a very healthy low-fat food choice. Apart from this, it is also a very rich source of vitamins and iron.

4. Crimini

These amazing mushrooms were originated in North America and Europe. One of the most appealing benefits of this mushroom is that it is absolutely fat-free, which means you can indulge yourself as much as you want to! It has tremendous anti-inflammatory properties that also reduce your chances of having Type-2 diabetes. They are also a great source of zinc and it also contains copper and iron. Apart from this, you can either cook these amazing mushrooms or just have them raw!

5. Shiitake

These delicious and meaty mushrooms are often used for medicinal purposes. It has been used in China for thousands of years and now other countries have also started their research on these mushrooms. This mushroom contains lentinan which may protect a person from colon cancer and prostate cancer. In addition, these mushrooms also help in fending off tooth decay. The mushroom may not be used as an alternate of medicine but it does help in keeping a person healthier.