John Miller
Mushrooms have been consumed by humans for centuries, and there are over 200 species of what are commonly known as magic mushrooms. While mushrooms can be harmful to health, this depends on the type of mushroom and the way it is consumed. Some mushrooms are considered illegal drugs because they contain hallucinogenic substances such as psilocybin and psilocin, which can cause euphoria, hallucinations, and sensory distortion. Other mushrooms can be poisonous and cause poisoning, which may lead to liver failure, kidney failure, or even death. However, recent research has shown that psilocybin mushrooms may have benefits for physical and mental health, and there is advocacy for removing legal restrictions on mushroom possession in some places.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Health Benefits | Low-calorie food, rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, boosts immunity, reduces inflammation, lowers cholesterol, lowers blood pressure, lowers risk of cancer, Alzheimer's, heart disease, and diabetes |
| Risks | Poisonous if they are wild mushrooms, feelings of anxiety, paranoia, and short-term psychosis if they are magic mushrooms |
| Types | Edible, medicinal, shiitake, portobello, cremini, white button, oyster, maitake, king oyster, chaga, lion's mane, tremella, reishi, cordyceps, king trumpet, turkey tail |
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What You'll Learn
Edible mushrooms are a healthy meat substitute
Edible mushrooms are a nutritious and healthy meat substitute. They are low in calories, fat, and cholesterol, making them an excellent alternative to red meat. Their unique texture and savoury umani flavour enhance the taste of dishes without adding significant amounts of fat or sodium.
Mushrooms are a good source of plant-based protein, fibre, vitamins, and minerals. They contain high levels of selenium, vitamin D, and vitamin B6, which are essential for maintaining a healthy immune system. Vitamin D, in particular, aids in cell growth, boosts immune function, and helps the body absorb calcium for strong bones. Mushrooms are also a rich source of potassium, which helps maintain healthy blood pressure by reducing the negative impact of sodium.
The antioxidant properties of mushrooms, such as ergothioneine, an amino acid, help prevent or slow down cellular damage and reduce inflammation, thereby potentially lowering the risk of chronic diseases, including cancer, heart disease, and Alzheimer's. Additionally, studies suggest that consuming mushrooms regularly may contribute to weight loss and improved overall health.
When it comes to preparation, mushrooms are versatile. They can be eaten raw, cooked, sliced, or chopped and added to various dishes. Common edible mushrooms include button, cremini, portobello, shiitake, and oyster mushrooms. However, it is important to distinguish between edible and medicinal mushrooms, as some wild mushrooms can be poisonous.
In summary, edible mushrooms are a nutritious and flavourful meat alternative that offers numerous health benefits, making them a valuable component of a balanced diet.
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Mushrooms are a good source of vitamin D
Mushrooms, belonging to the fungal kingdom, have the unique ability to synthesize vitamin D when exposed to UV light or sunlight. Similar to humans, mushrooms exposed to these sources of ultraviolet radiation can increase their vitamin D content. The most prevalent form of vitamin D in mushrooms is vitamin D2, with smaller amounts of vitamins D3 and D4. While vitamin D3 is the more common form found in animal-based foods, vitamin D2 in mushrooms is still beneficial in raising blood levels of vitamin D.
White button, portabella, and cremini mushrooms are particularly effective in producing vitamin D after UV light or sun exposure. To obtain the recommended daily amount, slicing and exposing three mushrooms (or one portabella) to sunlight for approximately 15 minutes can be sufficient. Maitake mushrooms are another excellent source of vitamin D, providing a substantial amount without the need for sun exposure.
In addition to their vitamin D content, mushrooms offer a range of health benefits. They are a healthy meat substitute, providing a savory flavor with minimal calories, fat, and cholesterol. Mushrooms are also a good source of selenium, vitamin B6, potassium, fiber, and antioxidants, contributing to a strong immune system and overall health.
By incorporating mushrooms into our diets, we can take advantage of their nutritional benefits, including their ability to provide a good source of vitamin D. This not only helps improve our bone and immune health but also ensures we meet our recommended vitamin D intake through a non-animal food source.
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Mushrooms may reduce the risk of cancer
Mushrooms are rich in vitamins, nutrients, and antioxidants, and are associated with a reduced risk of cancer. A review of 17 cancer studies from 1966 to 2020 found that eating just 18 grams of mushrooms, or about 1/8 to 1/4 cup, daily may lower your risk of cancer by up to 45%. This is because mushrooms are the highest dietary source of ergothioneine, a potent antioxidant and cellular protector that prevents or slows cellular damage.
Mushrooms are also a good source of selenium, vitamin D, and vitamin B6, which help to maintain a healthy immune system. Vitamin D, in particular, helps with calcium absorption, supporting bone health. Additionally, the antioxidants in mushrooms may increase cells' defence systems, offering protection against obesity-related hypertension.
Shiitake, oyster, maitake, and king oyster mushrooms have higher amounts of ergothioneine than white button, cremini, and portobello mushrooms. However, the review found that incorporating any variety of mushrooms into one's daily diet will lower the risk of cancer.
Mushrooms are also a healthy meat substitute, as they are low in calories, fat, cholesterol, and sodium. They can help reduce cholesterol levels and are a good source of potassium, which helps maintain healthy blood pressure.
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Mushrooms can be hallucinogenic
Psilocybin mushrooms are a polyphyletic informal group of fungi that contain the prodrug psilocybin, which turns into the psychedelic psilocin upon ingestion. The most potent species are members of the genus Psilocybe, such as P. azurescens, P. semilanceata, and P. cyanescens. However, psilocybin has also been isolated from a dozen other genera, including Panaeolus, Inocybe, Pluteus, Gymnopilus, and Pholiotina.
The species within the most commonly ingested genus of psilocybin mushrooms, the Psilocybe, contain two primary hallucinogenic toxins: psilocybin and psilocin. The median lethal dose, also known as "LD50", of psilocybin is 280 mg/kg. From a toxicological profile, it would be very difficult to overdose on psilocybin mushrooms, given their primary toxin compounds. To consume a lethal dose, one would have to ingest more than 1.2 kg of dried Psilocybe cubensis, given that only 1-2% of the dried mushroom contains psilocybin. However, posing a more realistic threat than a lethal overdose, significantly elevated levels of psilocin can overstimulate the 5-HT2A receptors in the brain, causing acute serotonin syndrome.
The use of magic mushrooms rarely results in any life-threatening symptoms. However, if a large amount or a strong batch of mushrooms is consumed, the person may experience a "'bad trip' or "flashbacks". A "bad trip" may involve feelings of anxiety, fear, nausea, and muscle twitches, accompanied by an increased heart rate and blood pressure. Flashbacks can happen weeks, months, or even years after the drug was last taken, and can be brought on by using other drugs, stress, tiredness, or exercise. They are usually visual distortions that involve changes in emotions or perception, and can be disturbing, especially if a frightening experience or hallucination is recalled.
There is increasing interest in the potential therapeutic uses of magic mushrooms and of psilocybin. While clinical trials with psilocybin have shown promising results, there are currently no approved therapeutic products containing psilocybin.
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Wild mushrooms can be poisonous
Mushrooms are a nutritious food with many health benefits. They are low in calories, fat, and sodium, and are a good source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They can help to lower cholesterol and blood pressure, and may even reduce the risk of cancer, Alzheimer's, heart disease, and diabetes.
However, not all mushrooms are safe to consume. Wild mushrooms, in particular, can be risky as some may be poisonous. Mushrooms can be broadly classified into two types: edible and medicinal. The most common type is the button mushroom, but there are many other varieties such as portobello, shiitake, porcini, chanterelle, maitake, enoki, morel, cremini, and oyster mushrooms. These mushrooms are generally safe to consume and can be found in grocery stores or grown at home.
Medicinal mushrooms have a long history of use in Eastern medicine and are now popular for their claimed health benefits, such as boosting immunity. They include mushrooms like chaga, lion's mane, tremella, reishi, cordyceps, king trumpet, and turkey tail. These mushrooms are typically consumed as extracts or powders because they can be too tough to eat whole.
While medicinal mushrooms are known for their potential health benefits, it's important to distinguish them from "magic mushrooms," also known as psilocybin mushrooms. Magic mushrooms contain hallucinogenic substances that can induce euphoria, hallucinations, and sensory distortion. Although they have been used for ceremonial and medicinal purposes for thousands of years, they are currently illegal in most places due to their potential for abuse and lack of proven medical purpose. However, there is ongoing research into their potential therapeutic use for mental and behavioral health conditions, and advocacy for decriminalization in some places.
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Frequently asked questions
No, but there are many species of mushrooms that are harmful to health. Some mushrooms are considered illegal drugs because they contain hallucinogenic substances like psilocybin and psilocin. These mushrooms are commonly referred to as "magic mushrooms" or "shrooms". There are over 200 species of magic mushrooms, and they can be harmful as they alter a person's sense of reality and affect judgment. However, there is increasing interest in the therapeutic uses of magic mushrooms, particularly for mental health disorders.
Yes, many species of mushrooms are poisonous and can cause mushroom poisoning, which can range from benign symptoms of gastrointestinal upset to more severe symptoms such as liver failure, kidney failure, and neurologic sequelae. There are up to 14 described mushroom poisoning syndromes, which manifest depending on the species, toxins, and amount ingested. Poisonous mushrooms can be accidentally consumed by those foraging for mushrooms who misidentify them as edible, or by children who find them in living environments.
Yes, there are some benefits to consuming certain types of mushrooms. Mushrooms have been consumed by humans for centuries, and modern commercial farming of mushrooms ensures their safety to an extent. There is ongoing research into the potential health benefits of psilocybin mushrooms, which may be beneficial in treating psychiatric and behavioral conditions.
