Are mushrooms paleo? Not all mushrooms are created equal.
Yes! Mushrooms of all kinds are paleo. Mushrooms are extremely rich in nutrients and contain protein, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, along with various disease-preventing properties. These properties make mushrooms the only vegan, a non-fortified dietary source of vitamin D.
Mushrooms are neither an animal nor a plant, making them attractive to all forms of diets. The fact that they are non-starchy vegetables makes them a great choice to aid in weight loss.
Mushrooms Carry Many Benefits
Mushrooms carry many benefits that provide for the human body, including, but not limited to:
- Antioxidants
- Protein
- Fiber
- Healthy Carbs
- Vitamins
Mushrooms are high in antioxidants, allowing them to fight damaging free radicals, making them one of the best “cancer-fighting” vegetables.
Because not all mushrooms are treated equally, specific mushrooms have specific benefits that may not occur in their cousin mushroom.
Some Mushrooms and Their Specific Benefits
White mushrooms consist of cremini mushrooms, button mushrooms, and portobello mushrooms. These mushrooms are known to be great for weight loss and aid in preventing prostate cancer. These specific mushrooms contain a carbohydrate that increases metabolism and controls blood sugar levels.
Reishi mushrooms are known as a “superfood” due to their anti-fighting properties. These properties include: anti-cancer, antioxidant, antibacterial, anti-viral, and anti-fungal.
Oyster mushrooms are highly antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties, which in turn make them helpful in defending the body against viruses such as HIV.
Shimeji mushrooms (commonly found in Japanese dishes) are another excellent source for preventing diabetes and asthma. These mushrooms are also known for their aid in destroying growing tumors.
Maitake mushrooms are also known to help in the fight against cancerous cells. These mushrooms aid in finding abnormal cells within the body and cause them to self-destruct.
Porcini mushrooms are meatier than their cousins and are similar to Portobello mushrooms because they are great for weight loss. Porcini mushrooms are another mushroom that contains high anti-inflammatory properties.
Chanterelle mushrooms contain many anti-fighting properties, such as anti-microbial, antibacterial, and anti-fungal. These mushrooms are also high in vitamins C and D and potassium.
Shiitake mushrooms contain anti-inflammatory properties, are antibacterial, and are a good source of vitamin D. The Shiitake Mushroom is also known to help fight tumors.
Commonly Asked Questions
What does paleo mean?
The word paleo means older or ancient, especially relating to the geological past.
What is a paleo diet?
A paleo diet is an eating regimen that emphasizes foods from the Paleolithic epoch. A paleo diet typically includes lean meats, fish, fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds — foods that in the past could be obtained by hunting and gathering. It limits foods that became common when farming emerged, including dairy products, legumes, and grains.
Are mushrooms okay to eat raw?
Most mushrooms are okay to eat raw, but be sure to do your research; some mushrooms are poisonous!
What are some excellent recipes for mushrooms?
The Paleo Diet has some mouth-watering recipes that we highly recommend!