The power of cultivated mushrooms

Button mushrooms are often referred to as a weapon in the fight against cancer. Their regular consumption can help provide protection by preventing the excessive elevation of oestrogen levels in the body. Too much oestrogen can be caused by the activity of the enzyme aromatase, especially among post-menopausal women. Aromatase inhibitors are currently used in the treatment of oestrogen-related cancers. The effects of aromatase have also been associated with other types of cancer, including prostate, bladder, and ovarian cancer, and the presence of aromatase inhibitors has been shown to successfully prevent the development of these types of cancers.

In the case of prostate cancer, another enzyme, known as 5-alpha reductase, has been shown to disrupt testosterone metabolism in the patient’s body. Research carried out in 2004 demonstrated that the active ingredients in button mushrooms can inhibit the activity of both aromatase and 5-alpha reductase. In addition, where tumours are already forming, mushroom extracts have successfully reduced the proliferation of cancer cells.

Cultivated mushrooms are low in calories, contain no fat or cholesterol, and have a high water and fibre content. They are also rich in minerals and vitamins (all the B vitamins, vitamin D, magnesium, folic acid, vitamin C, iron, phosphorus, zinc, potassium, copper, selenium, and manganese). Importantly, mushrooms should not be peeled, merely rinsed thoroughly under running water. They are cultivated under modern conditions and are therefore safe to consume and available year round.

Not sure how to use cultivated mushrooms? Click here for tips and recipes: www.chefgomba.hu/recipes