每週吃兩份蘑菇預防記憶力衰退

In recent years, an increasing number of studies have pointed out the profound impact of daily diet on human health, with the concept of "the gut as the second brain" gaining increasing attention. According to a BBC report, the human gut contains millions of neurons, hence this analogy. The gut is not only responsible for digestion and excretion, but it is also closely related to brain function, the immune system, and overall health. Poor gastrointestinal health can increase the risk of various diseases; therefore, maintaining gut health through a proper diet has become one of the important strategies for disease prevention.

Diet and brain health are inextricably linked
As people age or their lifestyles change, many gradually experience a decline in memory, such as "frequently forgetting things that happened a few days ago" or "suddenly forgetting what they were supposed to do."Brain cognitive functionThere are signs that the symptoms are beginning to subside. However, with targeted nutritional intake, these problems can be improved.

In 2019, the National University of Singapore published a six-year longitudinal study of 663 people aged 60 and above, examining their dietary habits and lifestyles. The study found that people who consumed mushrooms more than twice a week performed better on cognitive tests and had faster reaction times. In particular, those who ate more than two servings of mushrooms per week had a significantly lower chance of developing mild cognitive impairment.

Researchers point out that mushrooms contain a special antioxidant called ergothioneine, which helps...Protect brain cellsReducing the impact of oxidative stress on cognitive function may reduce the risk of cognitive impairment.Memory declineThe risk of language impairment.

Nutritional value and health benefits of mushrooms
Mushrooms, shaped like small umbrellas, are commonly found in environments such as decaying wood and soil. Common edible mushrooms include shiitake, button mushrooms, enoki mushrooms, king oyster mushrooms, bamboo fungus, and wood ear mushrooms. In addition, mushrooms such as reishi and cordyceps are considered medicinal fungi, possessing health-promoting and conditioning effects.

Mushrooms are highly nutritious, rich in protein—in fact, their protein content surpasses that of many common vegetables and fruits. Notably, mushroom protein contains 18 amino acids, some of which are present in proportions even better than those found in beef, making them extremely beneficial for muscle repair and growth. Furthermore, mushrooms also contain various minerals, vitamins, and dietary fiber, making them a nutritious and low-calorie healthy food.

Here are some specific health benefits of consuming mushrooms:

1. Helps maintain gut health

Mushrooms are rich in polysaccharides and dietary fiber, which can promote intestinal peristalsis and improve digestive function, and are effective in preventing or relieving constipation. For example, black fungus and white fungus are often used to regulate the stomach and intestines.

2. Helps stabilize blood sugar.

Mushrooms are low in glycemic index (GI), which helps diabetics control blood sugar fluctuations. In addition, mushrooms can increase the body's levels of polyphenols, enhancing its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory capabilities, and offering positive benefits for cardiovascular health, nervous system protection, and even periodontal disease prevention.

3. Helps prevent osteoporosis.

Some mushrooms, such as shiitake mushrooms, contain ergosterol, which can be converted into vitamin D2 after being exposed to ultraviolet rays in sunlight. This helps with calcium absorption and plays a positive role in maintaining bone density and preventing osteoporosis.

4. Helps combat fatigue and restore physical strength.

Muscle soreness, which often occurs after exercise, can be relieved by supplementing with amino acids. Mushrooms are rich in 18 essential amino acids, which can help repair muscle tissue and reduce fatigue, making them a good choice for post-workout nutritional supplementation.