Mushrooms contain significant quantities of several B vitamins, including thiamine (B1), riboflavin (B2), pyridoxine (B6), niacin and folate.
- Based on a 100g serving, mushrooms provide 28.2% DRV for riboflavin and 24.6% DRV for niacin. These vitamins are involved in normal cell function and in the release of energy from carbohydrate, protein and fat. So, the fitter you are, the more riboflavin and niacin you need.
- Mushrooms are also brimming with the B vitamin folate, providing 22% DRV per 100g. Folate is necessary for the formation of blood cells and for proper development of infants. It is routinely given to pregnant women as a supplement to help prevent birth defects such as spina bifida. Low intakes have also been linked to depression.
- Pyridoxine is important for the metabolism of protein. In recent years it has been used to ease PMS. 100g of mushrooms provides 15%DRV for pyridoxine.
- 100g of mushrooms provides 11.2% of DRV for thiamine. Thiamine plays an important role in at least 24 enzyme systems in the body, many of which are involved in the release of energy from carbohydrates for activity and vitality. Active people need more food and kilojoules, which mean they also need more thiamine to convert the extra food to energy.
DRV = UK DRV Dietary Reference Value for females (19-50 years)