Mushrooms are edible fungus that provide a variety of nutrients. The different mushrooms also have differing compositions and nutritional profiles. Mushrooms can be easy to find or hard to find and range from being a grocery store staple to a delicacy. You can buy them fresh, canned, or dried.

Mushrooms are not just delicious, they contain protein, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants which can all be healthy. Some of these can even prevent illnesses by combatting free radicals through substances like antioxidants. Free radicals are toxic byproducts of normal metabolism and other body processes. Accumulating too many in the body can cause oxidative stress, which may lead to various health conditions or even death.

Many varieties of mushroom exist across the globe, with different tastes and textures. In this article, we will list some common types of mushroom and their health benefits

1. White Button Mushrooms

The most common variety of mushroom you can find at the markets is this one. You’ll often find it in Indian stores. These cultivated mushrooms can be eaten raw or cooked, and white button mushrooms contain less sugar and fewer calories.

  • These mushrooms are high in vitamin D2 which aids in the absorption of calcium in the body.
  • These mushrooms have a high protein content
  • These are rich in vitamin B12
  • White mushrooms help diabetics by improving insulin resistance and controlling blood sugar levels.
  • These have prebiotic properties that help promote a healthy gut.

2. Portobello Mushrooms

Portobello mushrooms are the second most popular mushroom in the world. They have a strong, earthy flavor and meat-like texture. Vegetarians like to consume this mushroom variety as part of their diet.

  • Portobello mushrooms contain a high amount of vitamin D
  • These mushrooms have selenium, copper and Vitamin B6 or niacin
  • Consuming portobello mushrooms is great for your health. In addition to metabolizing iron, it also helps you with metabolizing antioxidants and those from other foods, to give your body the necessary supplies.

3. Shiitake Mushrooms

Shiitake mushrooms are usually eaten in Japan and Korea with their appearance being different compared to other mushrooms. But their health benefits are more than any other mushroom.

Unlike other mushrooms, these have a woody taste and a chewy texture. They go well with many different dishes, including soups and noodles.

  • Shiitake mushrooms have fewer calories than other varieties.
  • These are high in fiber that promote gut health and help with constipation.
  • Shiitake mushrooms can help lower cholesterol and keep it in check.
  • They can help you manage diabetes and they have powerful antibacterial properties, too. 
  • They can also slow down the aging process.

4. Oyster Mushrooms

Oyster mushrooms are the largest edible mushroom variety and they owe their name to having a similar appearance as an oyster with their shape and texture. These are common and can grow in many different climatic conditions.

Oyster mushrooms hold the anise-like aroma with a sweet flavor. The taste goes well with many dishes and when cooked becomes tender and fleshy. They also have a lot of health benefits to offer:

  • Oyster mushrooms are loaded with vitamins and minerals. Oyster mushrooms are one of the best sources of vitamin D, potassium, selenium, copper and many other powerful nutrients for our body.
  • The list includes riboflavin, niacin, thiamin and vitamin B6.
  • Oyster mushrooms are great for the heart by lowering LDL levels.
  • Oyster mushrooms can help the immune system and make you less prone to getting sick.

5. Enoki Mushrooms

Another fantastic mushroom variety is Winter Mushroom, which is called as such because they grow in the winter. These mushrooms taste much different and more delicious than those grown during other seasons.

Enokis are mushrooms native to Japan with a distinctive look, fruity flavor and many uses. There are two different types of enoki – Japanese variety used in soups and salads, Chinese variety used in stews and stir-fries – but both are equally tasty and healthy.

  • Enoki mushrooms are very nutritious with high levels of vitamins B1, B2, B3 and B5
  • There are other minerals that include iron, calcium, copper, phosphorus, selenium and thiamine.
  • These mushrooms help manage weight by speeding up metabolism and cutting down on fat.
  • Patients who suffer from constipation should eat these mushrooms as it is high in dietary fiber that promotes gut microbiota

6. Porcini Mushrooms

Porcini mushrooms are typically used in Italian menus and give off a nutty, sticky taste. They’re generally on the thicker end with a slightly different stem than their other inedible counterparts.

This gourmet mushroom is popular for its taste and can be used extensively in soups, sauces, and meat dishes. As with other mushrooms, it also has tons of antioxidants, vitamins as well as protein.

You might have thought mushrooms bring nothing to the table. But you’re wrong.

Out of the many mushrooms that are available, you can choose one and have it more often. This variety is not only good for the taste but also improves your overall health, and so you must eat some mushrooms if you want to be healthy.

Author Bio:

Hi, I’m Rana and I blog at ranasrecipe.com. My passion for food began very early in my life. And after managing a cafe, a granola business and helping other food businesses scale up, I found my true calling in creating wonderful recipes so that everyone can enjoy cooking as much as I do! Don’t forget to follow me on my social channels- instagram and pinterest.