Shiitake Mushroom Uses

The shiitake mushroom is prized around the world for its medicinal properties. It is one of the most popular sources of protein in China, Japan, and the rest of Asia. Its popularity is not due to its ample protein but its delicious flavor and other medicinal attributes.

No health benefit is better documented for shiitake mushroom than immune support. In fact, the immune support track record for this mushroom is fascinating. The nutrients in shiitake mushrooms can boost your immune function, decreasing risk of infection and even improving symptoms of some illnesses, including HIV, the virus that causes AIDS. Shiitake mushrooms are high in several essential nutrients, including protein, iron and antioxidant vitamin C. Shiitake mushrooms have a strong antiviral effect which is believed to be caused by the amount of interferons inherent in the mushroom. Inteferons are natural proteins that are typically created in vertebrates which create them as a reaction to viruses, bacteria, cancerous cells, and parasites. They help to inhibit the replication of these pathogens and therefore the existence of them in shiitake mushrooms boosts the immune system of the consumer.

It has also been discovered that the consumption of shiitake mushrooms lowers blood cholesterol levels by up to 40-45%. The results were most apparent in the studies when Shiitakes were simultaneously consumed with high cholesterol foods. Because it contains no cholesterol itself but is an excellent substitute for cholesterol heavy meats, it is the perfect choice for someone who needs to cut back on their red meat intake.

Lentinan, a compound in shiitake mushrooms, plays a role in protecting your body against cancer, as well as treating cancerous tumors, according to the American Cancer Society. Used primarily in traditional Asian medicine, shiitake mushrooms, either eaten as the vegetable or taken in the form of supplements, may slow or even reverse the progression of tumor growth, and can keep your body from replicating viruses that cause other serious illness, such as hepatitis.

As a food source, Shiitake contains all eight of the essential amino acids in a better ratio than meat, milk, eggs, or soy beans. Not to mention they contain an excellent combination of vitamins and mineral including A, B, B12, C, and D. In addition, Shiitake produces a fat-absorbing compound which is perfect for those wanting to lose weight. It's no wonder why the shiitake is also known as the "miracle mushroom".

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Immune system booster, anti-bacterial, anti-viral, anti-fungal, antioxidant, lowers blood pressure and cholesterol, stress reducer, sexual potentiator, high in vitamins and minerals, cancer prevention and treatment, helps with energy metabolism and encourages weight loss.