There are many varieties of edible mushrooms, which are available whether in the local markets or in grocery stores. The mushrooms are also popular because these can be added to the high-class cuisines or in simple meals. One of these is the Porcini Mushrooms. This mushroom has the nutty, earthy, and hearty taste. Furthermore, it can be added to any dish in order to have more flavor. Nevertheless, it can also add more not just flavor but also add a boost to the health benefits and nutrition. In addition, it is very popular among the vegetarian because it has the savory and meaty taste, which can incorporate into their meals. Read on to this article and get to know about the different health benefits of porcini mushrooms.
Porcini Mushrooms: What is this?
Porcini or Bolete mushrooms have the scientific term, Boletus edulis and a member of the family of Boletaceae and genus of Boletus. Furthermore, it was recognized in the United Kingdom as “penny bun” because of their large, spongy and light-brown cap that looks like. In France, it was called cèpe in which comes from the Gascon word cep that means trunk. The Porcini is the popular Italian name for this mushroom. Moreover, it is sometimes called the king of the mushrooms. It is one of the favorite mushrooms of the chef. This mushroom can be found in the highland and temperate forests of the China, Siberia, USA, and Europe.
This mushroom is not cultivated but gathered in the wild. Furthermore, the reason is that the symbiotic and complex relationship between the tree roots and the mushroom is hard to reproduce. Moreover, all the varieties of it are described by fat, round cap, and thick stems. As the mushroom grows, the cap opens up a bit and flattens. Therefore, the fat young one has an entirely different look than the older one.
Furthermore, the caps can range from deep burgundy brown to light tan and the stems are pale. Its size can grow as large as a foot but they often pick it when it still much smaller. What makes this mushroom different from others is that it has a spore sponge underneath the cap, not gills. Moreover, the pale spore sponge will turn green and darken when the mushroom ages. That is why it is important for something like it to look for when buying the fresh ones.
Nutritional Facts of Porcini Mushrooms
The good thing about this mushroom is this contains a very low amount of Cholesterol, Saturated Fat, and Sodium. Moreover, it is an excellent source of Dietary Fiber, Iron, Manganese, Selenium, Copper, Zinc, and Iodine. In addition, it contains ample concentrations of the Vitamin’s B-complex group such as riboflavin, niacin, thiamin, pyridoxine, pantothenic acid, etc.
Below is the list of the nutrients that a 1-cup (100 grams) of this mushroom can give:
| Principle | Amount | % Daily Value |
| Calories | 375 | 19% |
| Carbohydrates | 50 grams | 17% |
| Dietary Fiber | 25 grams | 100% |
| Total Fat | 0 grams | 0% |
| Protein | 25 grams | 50% |
| Iron | 5 milligrams | 28% |
Health Benefits of Porcini Mushrooms
That this mushroom not only is tasty but also can give several health benefits to our body. Below is the list of the health benefits of porcini mushrooms, which include:
It is an aid in losing weight.
This mushroom has low calories content but is rich with fiber and protein. Therefore, it a loved tool for weight loss. Furthermore, the fiber is keeping the appetite in control and promoting fullness by moving through the gastro internal tract. Furthermore, the protein decreases a certain hormones’ level that is stimulating the hunger like the ghrelin. In addition, the protein reduces the calorie intake and boosting the metabolism.
It is high in antioxidants.
This mushroom contains a high amount of antioxidants. Furthermore, the antioxidants are compounds that are neutralizing free radicals and preventing cells damage. A study has shown that this mushroom contains many types of antioxidants such as ascorbic acid, lycopene, and beta-carotene.
It is promoting the digestive health.
This mushroom contains a large amount of fiber that improves the digestive health, boosts regularity, and prevents constipation. Moreover, the fiber is adding bulk to the stool and eases its passage in order to reduce constipation. In addition, studies show that increased in dietary fiber intake may benefit several digestive system conditions like diverticulitis and gastroesophageal reflux.
It is reducing the inflammation.
The chronic inflammation is in association with different health problems such as asthma, peptic ulcer, and rheumatoid arthritis. Furthermore, it may also provide some contribution to the chronic diseases development like heart disease and cancer. Studies have shown that it may comprise powerful anti-inflammatory properties, which may help in reducing the symptoms of various inflammation-related illnesses.
It may kill the colon cancer cells.
This is an extraordinary benefit of porcini mushroom –its potential effects on the colon cancer. Furthermore, studies show that it has potent compounds, which can help in killing off the cancer cells. This is one of the best health benefits of porcini mushrooms.
Porcini mushrooms really are oozing with so many health benefits –so add it in your diet and get the boost that your health needs.
