Heart benefits
Heart disease is a leading cause of
death, but consuming mushrooms can keep you from becoming another
statistic. A major risk factor for heart disease is atherogenesis, which
is the formation of plaque on arterial walls, which causes
atherosclerosis and hardening of the arteries.
Researchers at Arizona State University
tested the effects of mushrooms on the human endothelial cells in a test
tube. The results of their study, published in the July 2010 issue of
the Journal of Nutrition, show that mushrooms reduce inflammation in
arterial cells and prevent white blood cells from sticking to arterial
walls. The researchers conclude that consuming mushrooms may be a means
to prevent heart disease.
Immune system benefits
Specific cells in the body, referred to
as natural killer cells, respond rapidly to foreign invaders such as
viruses or cancer cells. Their rapid response is crucial to the immune
system, as it helps the body to fight disease. The June 2007 issue of
the Journal of Nutrition reports that eating mushrooms can boost the
immune system by increasing the activity of natural killer cells.
Scientists believe that it is the polysaccharide content of the
mushrooms that is responsible for their immune-boosting ability.
For weight loss and prostate cancer prevention
White mushrooms have a special
carbohydrate that stokes the metabolic fire and maintains blood sugar
levels. A strong metabolism means more burned fat. Three ounces per day
for four to six weeks has been said to yield substantial weight loss
(this does not mean that exercise and healthy eating is not required).
These mushrooms are also high in selenium, which not only aids weight
loss but is known to have positive effects on prostate cancer.
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