10 Lesser Known Benefits of Oyster Mushrooms
Oyster mushroom is an edible mushroom that grows on the trunks of poplar and beech trees. Oyster mushroom was named because it resembles an oyster with its shell-like appearance. It is also known by the names of poplar mushroom, beech mushroom, leaf mushroom and caracal mushroom.
It contains many vitamins, minerals and components that the human body needs in terms of nutritional value. Thanks to these features, it has become a sought-after food all over the world, especially in our country. One cup (about 86 grams) of sliced oyster mushrooms is 37 calories. Since oyster mushrooms are low in fat, they are also low in calories. The same amount of oyster mushrooms contains 28 g of protein, 2 g of fiber, about 6 grams of carbohydrates. Besides these, it is rich in fiber, niacin, riboflavin, pantothenic acid, phosphorus, potassium, copper, thiamine, folate, iron and vitamin B6.
Oyster mushroom is known as one of the healthiest mushroom species all over the world. So what are the benefits of oyster mushrooms? Let’s take a look together!
10 Lesser Known Benefits of Oyster Mushrooms
1) It is nutritious
- Oyster mushroom is a very nutritious food thanks to its vitamins, minerals, water and various components.
- It is rich in fiber, protein, magnesium, selenium, iron, copper, phosphorus, potassium, zinc, manganese, folate, pantothenic acid, B1, B2, B3, B6 and vitamin D.
- The amount of iron in oyster mushrooms rivals red meat. In cases where you cannot consume meat, you can choose oyster mushrooms with peace of mind.
2) It is antioxidant
- Free radicals in the body disrupt the structure of cells and open the door to many diseases, especially cancer.
- Thanks to its antioxidant properties, oyster mushrooms protect cells by fighting free radicals.
- It cleanses the body of toxins. It supports and strengthens the immune system.
- Thanks to these properties, it reduces the risk of developing cancer.
- Today, most of the drugs prescribed to cancer patients also contain oyster mushrooms.
3) Natural Antibiotic
- Oyster mushroom creates a natural antibiotic effect thanks to its antibacterial properties.
- It is effective against bacteria, germs and viruses.
- It fights inflammation, which negatively affects the body’s defense mechanism.
- It alleviates the symptoms of diseases by reducing chronic inflammation in autoimmune diseases.
4) Strengthens Immunity
- The benefits of oyster mushrooms are endless!
- Thanks to its antioxidant and antibacterial properties, it helps to strengthen the immune system.
- It protects the body from diseases caused by weak immune system.
5) Eliminates Iron Deficiency
- Oyster mushrooms, which contain high levels of iron and folate, are an ideal food for anemia patients.
- Consuming oyster mushrooms regularly eliminates the problem of anemia and iron deficiency.
6) Balances Cholesterol Level
- Thanks to the lovastatin substance in the oyster mushroom content, it is effective in reducing the bad cholesterol values in the blood.
- It helps to keep the cholesterol level in the ideal balance.
- Studies have shown that regular consumption of oyster mushrooms reduces cholesterol levels by 37%. In addition, in the same study, it was revealed that it reduced the triglyceride level by 45%.
- Today, there are also oyster mushrooms in the drugs used to lower cholesterol.
7) Gut Friendly
- Oyster mushroom, which is among the gut-friendly foods, regulates the digestive system thanks to its high fiber content.
- Nature is a solution to the problem of constipation.
8) A Natural Remedy Against High Blood Pressure
- Oyster mushrooms reduce the negative effects of salt on the body, thanks to the potassium it contains.
- This helps to lower high blood pressure.
9) Affects Brain Health Positively
- Consuming oyster mushrooms regularly prevents the occurrence of neurodegenerative diseases.
- Thanks to the niacin in its content, it reduces the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease.
- Thanks to the nutrients it contains, it increases the function of the brain.
10) Helps Weight Loss
- Oyster mushroom is an ideal food for people who have weight problems due to its low fat content.
- It solves the problem of constipation by supporting the digestive system.
- It is a food that is both nutritious and facilitates the process for those who want to lose weight.
