The Nutrition Science Podcast How This Overlooked Food May Improve Your Immune System and Protect Against Cancer
Oct 30, 2025
Discover the incredible health benefits of mushrooms, an often-overlooked food. Learn about their unique nutritional composition, including essential vitamins, antioxidants, and potential cancer-fighting properties. Research links regular mushroom consumption to lower all-cause mortality and reduced cancer risk. Get practical tips on how to easily incorporate these fungi into your meals for a nutrient boost. Plus, find out why routine mushroom supplements may not be necessary. It's time to elevate your diet with these powerful little gems!
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Mushrooms Are A Distinct Food Group
- Mushrooms are neither plant nor animal and have a unique nutrient profile compared with other foods.
- Adrian Chavez groups mushrooms together because most edible varieties share similar nutritional traits and research focuses on common types.
High Nutrient Density For Few Calories
- Mushrooms are very low calorie but concentrated in protein and fiber, giving high protein/fiber per calorie.
- They contain beta-glucans, a fiber type that can modulate immune function.
Variable Vitamin D And Unique Antioxidants
- Mushrooms can be a notable food source of vitamin D when exposed to UV, but amounts vary widely.
- They also supply rare antioxidants ergothioneine and glutathione that may protect against oxidative damage.