Mushrooms contain good amounts of several minerals including copper, selenium, potassium, phosphorus and iron.
- 100g of Mushrooms provide a whopping 60% of DRV for copper – copper is needed for the immune system and for good bone health. A poor intake can lead to anaemia and defects in cardiovascular function. The recently published National Diet and Nutrition Survey revealed that some younger adults had copper intakes below the DRV.
- Mushrooms provide 15% of DRV for selenium per 100g, an important trace element and antioxidant. Selenium is thought to help protect us from heart disease, some cancers and premature ageing. One recent study showed that UK intake is about half what is needed.
- Mushrooms provide 14.5% DRV for phosphorus per 100g. Phosphorus is vital for the production of energy in the body. Phosphorus activates B vitamins and works with calcium and magnesium to maintain bone density.
- 100g of Mushrooms provide 9% DRV for potassium, which is an electrolyte and helps to control the correct water levels in your body. It is essential for the correct working of the heart, muscles and nervous system and for the maintenance of normal blood glucose levels. A good potassium intake helps to counteract the negative effects of having too much salt in the diet.
- Mushrooms provide small, but nutritionally important, amounts of iron, about 1 mg per 100g. Unlike many vegetable sources of iron, mushrooms do not contain phytates, which reduce the body’s ability to absorb iron. The bioavailability of the iron in mushrooms is therefore high and up to 90% of the iron present can be absorbed.
DRV = UK DRV Dietary Reference Value for females (19-50 years)