Mushrooms are enjoyed by people across the globe not only for their delightful umami flavor but also for their numerous health advantages. Garlic mushrooms, in particular, are bursting with nutrients and unique bioactive plant compounds that offer an array of health benefits.
What are Garlic Mushrooms
Garlic mushrooms are simply mushrooms that have been sautéed in garlic and olive oil or butter. They make a quick, easy and delicious addition to pasta, pizza, salads, and more. Adding garlic ups the flavor quotient of mild-tasting mushroom varieties like white button mushrooms and brings out their natural savory qualities.
Nutritional Profile
Mushrooms, in general, are an excellent source of several important nutrients:
- Protein – Mushrooms contain 15-40% protein on a dry weight basis. They provide all the essential amino acids needed for building and repairing muscles. [Source]
- Fiber – A 100 g serving meets 11% of our daily fiber needs, promoting gut and heart health. The chitin in mushrooms acts as prebiotic fiber for gut bacteria.
- B-Vitamins like niacin, riboflavin, folates – Help convert food into energy and form healthy red blood cells.
- Important minerals like selenium, copper, potassium – Perform vital enzymatic and antioxidant functions. Selenium boosts immunity.
- Antioxidants like ergothioneine and polyphenols – Protect our cells against damage by free radicals and inflammation.
Adding garlic further boosts the nutritional quality of mushrooms. Garlic is high in manganese, vitamin B6, vitamin C and contains anti-inflammatory, antifungal and antimicrobial compounds like allicin. It adds to the immune-enhancing effects of mushrooms.
Health Benefits of Garlic Mushrooms
Regularly eating garlic mushrooms can provide several science-backed health advantages:
1. Heart Health
The fiber, vitamin C, potassium and polyphenols in mushrooms and garlic support cardiovascular function and lower high blood pressure levels. Studies show garlic extract reduces cholesterol, prevents blood clot formation and relaxes blood vessels, reducing stress on the heart. [Source]
2. Blood Sugar Control
Mushrooms have natural insulin-mimicking compounds. Animal studies reveal taking supplemental mushroom extract for 4 weeks significantly lowers blood glucose levels and boosts insulin sensitivity. The sulfur compounds in garlic also display antidiabetic effects, lowering complications of diabetes. [Source]
3. Immunity
The unique polysaccharides and high selenium content of mushrooms activate immune cells like cytokines and T-cells, enhancing the body’s defense mechanisms against pathogens. Allicin in garlic has strong antiviral and antibacterial properties as well. This makes garlic mushrooms ideal for fighting colds and flu. [Source]
4. Cancer Prevention
Ergothioneine and other antioxidants in garlic mushrooms mitigate DNA damage by reactive molecules that can lead to cancer growth. Population studies note increased mushroom intake lowers the likelihood of prostate and breast cancers. Diallyl sulfide in garlic also shows promising anti-tumor benefits by inducing cancer cell death pathways. [Source] [Source] [Source]
5. Detoxification
Many contaminants like heavy metals, pesticides and harmful chemicals build up in our bodies over time. Studies demonstrate mushrooms support liver function and help eliminate these toxins from our system more efficiently compared to typical detox diets. The sulfuric compounds in garlic also boost liver detox enzymes. [Source]
6. Gut Health and Immunity
The prebiotic fiber in mushrooms feeds our gut microbiome – the collection of beneficial bacteria that influence digestive health and disease resistance. Garlic also acts as a prebiotic. Together, they strengthen the intestinal barrier, reduce gut inflammation and create an environment unfavorable for disease-causing bacteria. [Source]
7. Brain Function and Mental Health
Ergothioneine and other unique neuroprotective compounds in mushrooms can prevent cognitive decline. Rodent studies reveal improved memory and lowered risk of neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease with mushroom-supplemented diets. The antioxidant effects of garlic also encourage healthy nerve cell communication. [Source] [Source]
As research continues to uncover more bioactive compounds, the health benefits of garlic mushrooms will likely expand. Current evidence indicates they are highly deserving of the superfood status bestowed upon them.
How to Select and Store Garlic Mushrooms
When buying fresh mushrooms, look for ones with firm, unblemished caps, without moisture or sliminess. Refrigerate garlic mushrooms in paper bags for 7-10 days. Canned or dried varieties can be stored in a cool, dark place for up to a year.
To retain the optimum texture and taste of garlic mushrooms, avoid washing them until just before cooking. Clean by gently brushing dirt off with a soft brush or cloth. Make sure they are as dry as possible before cooking for best caramelization and flavor. Overly wet or thawed and refrozen mushrooms lose their appealing meaty bite.
While garlic mushrooms offer tremendous nutritional and health advantages, moderation is key as with most foods. Individual tolerance levels vary too. Thoroughly cooking them can prevent digestive issues.
Those on blood thinners should exercise caution with high garlic intake. Still, mushrooms garlicked up make for an easy upgrade to elevate regular meals into healthful, gourmet delights.