Everyone knows that eating raw mushrooms is a healthy food choice, but exactly how safe are they to do so? Are you sure you want to know the answer to that question? How about this one: The potential downsides of doing so far outweigh the potential benefits. The truth is, cooking mushrooms can take away some of their leeky, earthy taste. The result? Mushrooms that have been over-cooked, under-cooked, or both. Mushrooms have been widely acknowledged for their high concentration of resveratrol, a potent antioxidant found in grape skins. This article will highlight the health benefits of eating raw mushrooms, which are the health risks, and how you can give them a try.
Can you eat mushrooms raw?
Even though cooked mushrooms are good, they are not as healthy as raw ones. The biggest reason is that cooking destroys some of the nutrients and enzymes in the mushroom. Also, you may not be able to distinguish between raw or bad mushrooms. Some fungi are poisonous when eaten raw (read below about toxicity).
Are Mushrooms Health Food?
- Mushrooms are low in calories and fat.
- Mushrooms are a good source of vitamins C and D and minerals like selenium, copper, potassium, magnesium, phosphorus, and zinc.
- Mushrooms have been linked to lowering the risk of certain cancers like breast cancer, prostate cancer, and colon cancer.
- Eating mushrooms may help reduce your risk of heart disease by lowering cholesterol levels in the bloodstream.
- They can also help boost your immune system by increasing the production of infection-fighting white blood cells called neutrophils that remove harmful bacteria from your body when you eat raw mushrooms on a regular basis.
- Mushrooms contain an enzyme called pepsin which breaks down protein into smaller fragments that can be utilized more easily by your body for growth and development as well as tissue repair processes that occur throughout your life span.
- Eating raw mushrooms on a regular basis may even help keep you looking younger because they contain beta-glucans, a type of fiber that is known to stimulate the production of collagen, which keeps your skin looking plump, firm, and youthful.
- Raw mushrooms are also a good source of ergothioneine, an unusual amino acid that is thought to possess anti-aging properties.
- They are also high in selenium and glutathione, which help protect your body from free radical damage by neutralizing harmful free radicals in the body.
- Mushrooms are also a good source of riboflavin (vitamin B2), niacin (vitamin B3), and pantothenic acid (vitamin B5).
- Raw mushrooms contain many different types of antioxidants that help prevent cell damage and reduce the risk of developing various types of cancer such as colon cancer, breast cancer, prostate cancer, and pancreatic cancer as well as lower your risk for heart disease and stroke by preventing plaque buildup in your arteries.
How To Eat Mushrooms
Selecting the right kind of mushroom
There are a variety of mushrooms that are edible. The most commonly eaten types are the white button, brown cap, crimini, portobello, shiitake, and oyster. Each type has its own flavor and texture. The best way to choose a good mushroom is to select one that is firm, dry, and free from blemishes or mold. It should also have a fresh smell.
Preparing them for eating raw
You can eat raw mushrooms as they are, or you can cut them into slices or small pieces before eating them raw. You do not need to peel mushrooms before eating raw unless you have purchased the canned ones at the grocery store, which have been peeled for you already. The easiest way to prepare raw mushrooms is by washing them under running water and then patting them dry with a paper towel. Using your hands will get rid of any dirt on the surface of the mushrooms without damaging their shape too much.
The best way to eat raw mushrooms
The best way to eat raw mushrooms is by dipping them in olive oil, salt, and pepper and then eating them with your favorite crackers. You can also snack on them as they are or add them to a salad topped with your favorite dressing. Another great choice is to add the raw mushrooms to a sandwich instead of lettuce or tomato slices.
Nutritional Value
Raw mushrooms are packed with nutrients, which include: vitamin C, potassium, copper, and manganese. They also contain significant amounts of selenium, B vitamins, and fiber. The best way to get the most out of raw mushrooms is to eat them in moderation.
Risks associated with Raw Mushrooms
While raw mushrooms do have many health benefits, they also have some risks associated with them as well. Raw mushrooms are quite low in calories so it is not a good idea to eat a lot of them in one sitting because they will not fill you up very much. This could lead you to overeat, which could cause weight gain instead of weight loss. It is best to eat just one serving at a time and then wait for at least two hours before eating more. Raw mushrooms are also a good source of fiber, which is great for your digestive system, but it could cause you to have an upset stomach if you eat too much of them.
What Are The Health Benefits Of Raw Mushrooms?
Raw Mushrooms Are High in Nutrients
If you are looking to add more nutrients to your diet, then consider adding more raw mushrooms. Raw mushrooms are high in vitamin D and contain a number of B vitamins. They also contain high amounts of potassium.
Raw Mushrooms Can Help Fight Inflammation
Raw mushrooms are rich in antioxidants, which can help fight inflammation in the body and can reduce the risk of heart disease and some cancers.
Raw Mushrooms Can Improve Your Immune System
The antioxidant properties found in raw mushrooms can also help improve your immune system by helping you fight off illness and disease.
Raw Mushrooms Are Anti-Cancerous
Studies show that raw mushrooms may help prevent cancer due to their anti-inflammatory properties that reduce oxidative stress on cells, as well as their ability to regulate cell growth and suppress tumor formation.
Raw Mushrooms Can Help You Lose Weight
Raw mushrooms have a low-calorie count, so if you are trying to lose weight, try adding them to your diet.
How To Cook Mushrooms
Add Mushrooms to Healthier Dishes
If you are looking to add more flavor to your dishes, try adding raw mushrooms. This is a great way to get the benefits of raw mushrooms without the potential risks.
Add Raw Mushrooms to Dehydrated or Frozen Veggies
You can also add them to your favorite frozen or dehydrated veggies and make a delicious side dish or snack.
Grill Them
Grilling your raw mushrooms is another great way of adding flavor and texture while taking away the risks associated with eating them uncooked. You can grill them over charcoal or on an outdoor gas grill.
Add Them to Soups
Adding raw mushrooms to soup is another way to add flavor while taking away the risks associated with eating them uncooked.
Make a Raw Mushroom Pasta Sauce
If you are looking for a new, tasty and healthy pasta sauce, try making one using raw mushrooms. You can add your favorite spices and seasonings, such as oregano, basil, or thyme, depending on your tastes.
Conclusion
Mushrooms are a great source of nutrients and health benefits. However, they should only be eaten raw, as some of the health risks associated with them may not be worth the risk. It is important to consult with a health professional before eating mushrooms, as there are many different risks associated with them.