GROWING FOOD
Mushrooms benefit the immune system
by Celia Barnes
U.S. Department of agriculture researchers indicate that fresh mushrooms are an excellent way to maintain a healthy immune system
In a recent document published in July 2010 from Sciencedaily.com, leading reporter Rosalie Marion Bliss reported how the Agricultural Research Service (ARS) scientists have conducted an animal-model and cell-culture analysis showing that white button fresh mushrooms enhanced the activity of vital cells in the body's immune system.
Agaricus bisporus (better-known variously as the common mushroom, button mushroom or white mushroom) is an edible basidiomycete mushroom indigenous to grasslands in Europe and North America. Agaricus bisporus is cultivated in more than 70 areas and is among the most commonly and widely eaten mushrooms in the world.
In the United States, white button mushrooms represent 90 % of the total mushrooms consumed.
The study was conducted at the Jean Mayer Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging (HNRCA) at Tufts University by center director Dr. Simin Meydani.
The final results suggest that white button mushrooms may boost immune function by increasing the production of antiviral and other proteins that are released by cells while seeking to defend and repair tissue.
The study's cell-culture phase demonstrated that white button mushrooms enhanced the maturity of immune system cells called "dendritic cells," from bone marrow. Dendritic cells can produce T cells that are essential white blood cells that can recognise and eventually deactivate or eliminate antigens on invading bacterias.
When immune system cells are subjected to disease-causing pathoenic agents, like bacteria, our body begins to increase the number and function of immune system cells, according to Dr. Meydani.
Regarding white button mushrooms, one easy option to utilize them in your daily diet could be to start thinking on some sample recipes: Masala Mushrooms are an excellent example.
Garam masala is a basic blend of ground spices popular in Indian and other South Asian cuisines. It is used by itself or with other seasonings.
Masala Mushrooms
Ingredients for 2 portions:
- Mushrooms(chopped) 2 cups
- 2 Onions
- 1 t Chilli powder
- 1/2 t Garam masala
- Salt
- 1/2 t Cooking oil
- Cilantro leaves
Directions: (Preparation time : fifteen min)
Heat oil and fry onion till it turns slightly brownish. Then add mushrooms, cover and cook for about 10 mins.
Add all the masala and cook for a couple of mins. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve hot.
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About the writer - Celia Barnes publishes articles for the nutritionist certification course blog, her personal passion weblog dedicated to healthy eating tips to help future nutritionists and dietitians to understand healthy eating options for their patients.
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