There are so many different types of mushrooms, at least 14,000 of which only about half are edible.  The most common being the white button type. Other common types include cremini, portabella, maitake (known as the hen of the woods), shiitake, enoki and oyster. Each of these has its own unique shape, flavour and texture

Mushrooms are an all-natural multivitamin. Rich in many vitamins and nutrients including B vitamins such as B5 (pantothenic acid), B3 (niacin) and B2 (riboflavin) and vitamin D, as well as copper, selenium, potassium, calcium, as well as protein and fibre

Mushrooms are known to have antibacterial properties as well as to lower cholesterol, help with high blood pressure and boost the immune system

Mushrooms are 90% water and are therefore known to assist in weight loss.  A tasty, nearly calorie free substitute in many meals

Some of the healthiest mushrooms and their benefits are:

Shiitake mushrooms – a favourite in Japanese cuisine and an excellent source of vitamin D as well as contain lentinan a compound which is known to naturally reduce tumours and inflammation in the body

Oyster mushrooms – grown throughout the world rich in protein and vitamin B, are cholesterol free and contain significant levels of lovastatin which is a cholesterol lowering molecule

Maitake mushrooms – known for its antiviral and immune system boosting effects as well as controlling both high blood pressure and blood sugar levels. Studies have shown them to be highly beneficial to people suffering from insulin resistance and diabetes.

Chanterelle mushrooms – known to have the highest levels of B vitamins, especially vitamins B1, B2, B3 and B5 all playing an important role in converting food into energy and keeping the nervous system healthy. This mini trumpet is also known to have antibacterial, antifungal and antimicrobial properties as well as being high in vitamins C and D as well as potassium

Reishi mushrooms – looks like a big white and brown flower made of wood. Loaded with ganoderic acid which is known to help reduce cholesterol and lower high blood pressure. Reishi known as “Lingzhi” in Chinese and has been respected in Asian societies for thousands of years and is one of the oldest symbols of well-being. It has strong immune boosting properties such as antiviral, antibacterial and antifungal

Porcini mushrooms – packed with antioxidants which are known to have anti-aging as well as anti-inflammatory properties. Porcini mushrooms contain the compound ergosterol which is capable of cytotoxicity which is the process within the body of attacking enemy cells

White Button mushrooms – the most commonly eaten mushroom. It is said that ancient Egyptians believed mushrooms could grant immortality and therefore only pharaohs were worthy of eating them. Modern day studies have shown that this popular mushroom is effective in preventing both breast and prostate cancer in both human and animal cells

Shimeji mushrooms – traditionally used in Japan for treating asthma as it contains high levels of beta-glucans which are known to suppress allergic reactions. Beta-glucans are also known to boost the natural healing capabilities of the immune system

Although there are many health benefits to eating mushrooms, one must be aware of the deadly fungi. There are about 70 – 80 species of poisonous mushrooms. Most of which will just make us sick but there are those that will kill you. These include death caps, deadly dapperlings, destroying angels and autumn skullcaps. The best way is to get your mushrooms source rather than picking them in the wild

Typically mushroom poisoning will cause nausea, vomiting, cramps and diarrhea within 4 hours. As some mushrooms can be toxic it is best to consult with your doctor if you have signs of mushroom poisoning