'Shroom Service

Raw or cooked, mushrooms are scrumptious. And thanks to a recent study conducted by food-science professors at Pennsylvania State University in the US, we now know they're healthy too. Researchers analysed the health benefits of all types of mushrooms and exotic varieties such as oyster, maitake and shiitake. The results showed that:
• Mushrooms are a primary source of the antioxidant ergothioneine, which reduces the risk of chronic diseases and slows the ageing process.
• Exotic mushrooms have the highest levels of ergothioneine, which helps lower cholesterol and boost the immune system, and are also low in kilojoules.
To get the full health benefits of mushrooms, 'halve your intake of high-fat foods like pizzas, meat or burgers and substitute the rest with a serving of mushrooms', says Zolelwa Cuba, a nutrition-liaison officer at the South African Sugar Association in Durban.

Author: Lelethu Lumkwana