Fantastic Fungi Fundamentals 

     

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Health Benefits in Relation to Fungus 
Kevin Han

General 

          Mushrooms are classified as vegetables in terms of produce and they provide several important nutrients, but are not distinguished as plants. They instead belong to the fungi kingdom in the Eukaryota domain. Increasing consumption of mushrooms in their whole, unprocessed form appears to decrease the risk of overall mortality such as cancer. Cancer prevention can be sought through many mechanisms like the supply of selenium, a mineral that detoxifies cancer-causing compounds in the body and improves immune response by stimulating the production of killer T-cells. Fungi also contain a high concentration of antioxidants and occasionally vitamin D, which both contribute to the regulation of the cell growth cycle. They also promote a healthy complexion, overall lower weight and increased energy.

          A specific health issue that mushrooms can be attributed to heart disease. The fiber, potassium and vitamin C all work in favor of cardiovascular health. Potassium and sodium work together to regulate blood pressure, decreasing risks of cardiovascular disease. Moreover, mushrooms contain phytonutrients that prevent plaque buildup, leading to an increase of HDL (good) cholesterol and a reduction of LDL (bad) cholesterol. Furthermore, mushrooms fortify immunity with its high levels of beta-glucan compounds, that stimulate the immune system to fight cancer cells, prevent tumor formation and increase satiety/reduces appetive through their dietary fibers.

Americum Erinaceus (Binomial Nomenclature)

Lion's Mane 
         The Lion's Mane grows on the trunks of hardwood trees and has been commonly consumed in Chinese and Japanese dishes for centuries to due to their health benefits. It has been known to improve the development and function of nerves with a stimulation effect of nerve growth factor (NGF) in the body, supporting the healing of damaged nerve tissues and overall mental function and memory. Apart from the brain, Lion's Mane protects the mucous membrane layer of the stomach, for long-term swelling or ulcers.

Antiviral Properties 

          Antiviral substances are crucial because they reduce the risk of viruses replicating DNA through our cells and causing long-term damage to our body, which cannot be treated with antibiotics. Antiviral effects have been discovered for the extracts of isolated compounds within mushrooms, as well as mushrooms as a whole. Direct antiviral effects include the inhibition of viral enzymes, synthesis of viral nucleic acids, preventing lytic/lysogenic cycles from occurring. Indirect antiviral effects are achieved by promoting biochemical factors, such as alkalinity, that discourage viral replication. For example, cancer cells will starve because they thrive in an acidic environment. The primary mushrooms most effective in their antiviral properties are polypores(right); a bracket fungus in which the spores are expelled through fine pores on the underside.

Debunking Myths 

"Medicinal mushrooms have no side-effects" [FALSE]


There have been a numerous amount of issues concerning allergies and sensitivity to particular mushrooms. Dermatitis; inflammation of the skin, and allergic sensitivity have been recorded in some individuals consuming raw or under-cooked cultivated shiitake mushroom. In addition, darkened nails have been noted in some long-term consumers of turkey tail; a mushroom known for its medicinal ability to boost immunity and fight disease.


"Raw mushrooms are always beneficial to your health" [FALSE]


There are a number of mushrooms that contain toxins which are destroyed by heat. This includes the common Agaricus species (including button, crimini, and portobello). The woody polypores require decocting, or boiling, to release the medicinal polysaccharides from their tough chitinous cells.



Tips to Achieve Health and Wellness

  • Consult with a specialist when purchasing mushrooms that are in their extracted form or when you are scavenging for wild mushrooms on your own, as they can contain many toxins or are simply unsafe to eat.
  • Eat organic, because they are porous and can absorb chemicals from within the soil, therefore, healthy growing and nurturing fungi in a stable and sanitary environment is essential.
  • There are many ways to use mushrooms in everyday life through different variants, such as:
    • Adding mushroom powders to your morning smoothie similar as you would with any other food blend.
    • Cooking with mushrooms - add shiitake mushrooms to your salad, stir-fry or miso soup.
    • Adding powdered mushroom blends to desserts.
    • Stirring a mushroom tonic through a juice in the afternoon for a natural pick-me-up or before a workout for greater energy and endurance.