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5 health benefits of mushrooms

Pile of button mushrooms

Mushrooms may be small in size, but they’re mighty in nutrition. From button and portobello to Asian varieties like shiitake and enoki, we’re spoilt for choice. Here are five great health (and flavour) benefits mushrooms provide.

1. Strong bones

When exposed to midday UV sunlight, mushrooms become carriers of vitamin D, which is essential for good bone health.

2. Light and lovely

One cup of raw mushrooms has just 73kJ (17cal), so they’re a delicious low-calorie way to bulk up salads and stir-fries.

3. Flavour enhancer

Mushrooms are naturally high in glutamate, which contributes to their rich, savoury flavour (also known as umami). Using them in your dishes will deepen and enhance their flavours.

4. Energiser buttons

Mushrooms provide a raft of energising, stress-relieving B-group vitamins, including niacin and riboflavin.

5. Gut goodness

One cup of mushrooms contains just over 1g of fibre, helping to support a happy, healthy gut.

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Date modified: 8 April 2026
First published: Jun 2022

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