Portobello mushrooms are a versatile food and contain several health and wellness benefits. Here are a few positive impacts of consuming these fungi!
Portobello mushrooms are among the most versatile and delicious foods out there. Though these fungi are popular across essentially all diets, vegans and vegetarians, in particular, adore their savory flavor. Not only are portobellos culinary delights that can act as meat substitutes but they are also packed with vitamins and nutrients that support overall well-being. Here are five amazing health benefits of portobello mushrooms to remember during your next grocery store trip.
Portobellos Have Low Energy Density
Portobello mushrooms are low in energy density, meaning they don’t contain many calories per gram. Since you can eat tons of these mushrooms without an exceptionally high caloric intake, you can incorporate them into your diet to help with weight loss or weight management.
Eating Portobellos Can Provide Mental Health Benefits
Studies show that eating mushrooms has long-term protective effects on the brain. Older adults can eat portobello mushrooms to help prevent the risk of mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Furthermore, portobellos contain mind-supporting vitamins and minerals that help reduce stress and increase energy levels.
Portobellos Are Immune System Boosters
Portobello mushrooms are a gut-healthy food. Gut bacteria absorb polysaccharides from portobellos, cleaning out the intestines and promoting a healthy immune system. These mushrooms also help charge white blood cells in bone marrow, helping maximize an immune response and keep bodies happy.
Portobellos Are Rich in Vitamin D
Mushrooms are uniquely able to absorb the sun’s gift of vitamin D. This makes them an excellent natural source of this important nutrient. As a pro tip, put your mushrooms in the sunlight upon bringing them home from the store, as UV light exposure increases vitamin D in mushrooms even after harvesting.
Portobellos Contain a Plethora of Other Vitamins and Minerals
While vitamin D is a main perk of portobello mushroom consumption, the fungus also contains several other vitamins and minerals that support health and wellness. Here are a few:
- B vitamins
- Phosphorous
- Selenium
- Copper
- Potassium
Integrating portobello mushrooms into your diet can greatly improve mental and physical health. They make a great meat substitute for vegans, vegetarians, and meat-eaters looking to spice up their weekly menus. These five amazing health benefits of portobello mushrooms demonstrate how these fungi keep you feeling your best!
