Mushrooms, the good and the bad

Mushrooms can be found edible as well as in poisonous varieties. Many of the wild grown mushrooms are poisonous and can prove fatal for humans. Before assuming any wild grown mushroom to be edible, they should be identified first.
Mushrooms are consumed by humans for their nurtitional benefits and medicinal values, some people are allergic to mushrooms.
Care should be taken in cleaning, washing  and preserving, as an improperly stored mushroom can give you food poisoning.

Health Benefits of Mushrooms
1. Since mushrooms have 80-90% of water they have less calorie value. They are also known for low on sodium, carbohydrates, fat and high on fiber content. This fact has made mushrooms the favourite of those who want to lose weight.

2. Mushrooms are a wonderful source of potassium, much more than a banana, infact. Potassium is one mineral which is needed to control hypertension as it is said to lower blood pressure and diminish the risk of stroke.
3. Copper which is present in mushrooms is said to have cardio protective properties and a single serving is said to provide about 20-40% of one's daily requirements.
4. Mushrooms are a excellant source of selenium which help fight against cancer. Selenium is an anti oxidant which works with Vitamin E to pritect the cells from damage by free radicals.
5. Since the mushrooms are rich in fiber, protein and Vitamin B, they help maintain a healthy metabolism and has been found that the extract helps stop migraine headaches.

The Mushroom extract has been found to be beneficial for people suffering from mental illnesses, like obsessive-compulsive disorder.  Oyster mushrooms are said to be useful in strengthening of veins and relaxation of the tendons.
So careful using of mushrooms can help you get the daily quota of nutrients, particularly for the vegertarians who keep away from meat and meat products

For Recipes with Mushrooms see here