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Harnessing the Nutritional Value, Therapeutic Applications, and Environmental Impact of Mushrooms

Summary

Mushrooms are nutritious superfoods packed with protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals that support overall health. They contain special compounds that can fight inflammation, boost immunity, and help prevent serious diseases like cancer and diabetes. Beyond eating them, mushrooms are being used to make medicines, cosmetics, and animal feed, while also helping clean up polluted environments. Regular consumption of mushrooms offers significant health benefits and can be a valuable addition to any healthy diet.

Background

Mushrooms have been valued since ancient times for their unique flavor and medicinal properties. With approximately 14,000 species existing globally, about 2,000 are considered edible and 200 are commercially cultivated. They are increasingly recognized as nutrient-dense superfoods with significant health benefits and therapeutic potential.

Objective

This review aims to explore the nutritional value and bioactive compounds of mushrooms, along with their health benefits and therapeutic properties. It highlights their applications in functional foods, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals, while emphasizing their potential as sustainable medicinal resources.

Results

Mushrooms are rich in essential nutrients including proteins (18-37%), carbohydrates (50-65%), fiber, vitamins (especially B vitamins and D), and minerals. They contain bioactive compounds such as polysaccharides, terpenoids, flavonoids, and polyphenols with antioxidant, anticancer, antimicrobial, and immunomodulatory effects.

Conclusion

Mushrooms represent a valuable sustainable resource with multiple health benefits and therapeutic applications. Their diverse bioactive compounds support disease prevention and management, making them valuable in food, pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and environmental bioremediation applications.
  • Published in:Food Science & Nutrition,
  • Study Type:Review,
  • Source: 40672546
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