You might know the oyster mushroom as an ingredient that you throw into some of your favorite recipes, ranging from fresh oven-baked pizzas to crunchy mushroom tacos with a spicy kick. However, this fun-gi is more than just an ingredient! Aside from the yummy taste and texture, this mushroom has numerous health benefits. Let’s take a look at a few of the valuable nutrients that can be found in our favorite mushroom:
Vitamin D in Oyster Mushrooms
1 cup of raw oyster mushrooms provides you with about 4% of your daily vitamin D needs! Vitamin D is known as the “sunshine vitamin” as our body creates it in response to sun exposure. However, this essential vitamin can also be found in certain foods, oyster mushrooms being one of them. Vitamin D plays an important role in promoting healthy bones and preventing osteoporosis.
Iron in Oyster Mushrooms
What else does one cup of oyster mushrooms provide? 12% of the daily iron intake for men and 6% for women! Iron is an essential component of hemoglobin. Hemoglobin is found in red blood cells and helps to transport oxygen to the rest of your body. Therefore, iron makes for healthy cell functioning!
Zinc in Oyster Mushrooms
Last but not least, oyster mushrooms are a great source of Zinc, as it provides about 9% of your daily value. Humans do not need an excessive amount of zinc in their bodies, however, some amount of zinc is critical. Zinc plays an important role in creating healthy DNA functioning and a strong immune system.
Liking this mushroom a bit more now? I know we are! These guys are seriously awesome.
Have you ever thought about growing your own oyster mushrooms? Not only will you get the necessary nutrients and a tasty treat, but you will also get to experience all of the excitement that comes along with indoor gardening and growing your own food!
Check out the Back to the Roots Organic Mushroom Farm – a complete kit that comes with everything you need to grow your own pearl mushrooms in just 10 days!
– Kalene S. from the Back to the Roots team
Referenced materials:
Health Benefits Times | Medical News Today | SF Gate | WebMD | Health Beckon | Organic Facts
Good to know! I love mushrooms of all types! Unfortunately, I don’t get to eat this type so much, since it is pricey.