As we head into cold and flu season, maintaining a strong immune system has never been more important, particularly in the current climate.
Studies have shown mushrooms are rich in nutrients and antioxidants that help support a healthy immune system and promote good health. They reside in their own biological kingdom and therefore provide a different range of nutrients and benefits to common vegetables.
Australian Dietitian and mushroom researcher, Glenn Cardwell, says mushrooms help to boost our immune systems because they can be an excellent source of vitamin D, if exposed to ultra-violet (UV) light.
“In Australia, just under one in four (23 per cent) Australians are living with a vitamin D deficiency, which may be having harmful effects on their bone and general health. This rises to over 40 per cent in the southern states during winter,” says, Mr Cardwell.
“However, mushrooms can easily help to combat vitamin D deficiencies, if left outside in the sunshine for approximately an hour, a serve of mushrooms (100g), which is approximately three medium sized mushrooms, can provide 100 per cent of the recommended daily intake.
“As the only non-animal source of vitamin D, they are also a great way for vegetarians and vegans to look after their health and ensure they’re getting vital nutrients,” said Mr Cardwell.
Vitamin D is just one of the many nutrients mushrooms deliver. One serve of mushrooms also provides at least 20 per cent of the recommended daily intake of four B vitamins, which help to keep the body’s cells functioning properly, important at keeping us healthy.
Studies have also shown that eating mushrooms regularly, around two to three times a week, is associated with a lower risk of developing cancer, specifically breast and prostate cancer.
Mr Cardwell said mushroom’s flavour and versatility make them the perfect all-rounder.
“You can buy locally grown, fresh mushrooms in nearly every supermarket. They’re fresh, tasty and good for you!”
Glenn’s top tips:
To try and stay healthy this winter and give your immune system a fighting chance, follow these top tips from dietitian and mushroom expert, Glenn Cardwell.
- Stay active, even though the weather is getting colder it’s still good to get outside and stay active during winter. If your local farmers’ market is open, pop out and support them, oh, and buy some mushrooms as well
- Eat well, especially a diet high in vitamin-rich fruits, vegetables and mushrooms to ensure you’re getting all your essential nutrients. as part of your daily diet. This will help to keep you healthy and support a strong immune system. A serve (100g) of mushrooms is a really easy way to boost your daily intake of D and B vitamins
- Put your fresh mushrooms out in the winter sunshine for about an hour before putting in the fridge. This will naturally multiply their levels of vitamin D and antioxidants
- Get enough sleep, being well rested and getting enough sleep will help you to stay healthy. Studies have shown lack of sleep can make us susceptible to sickness
