Magic mushrooms have earned all the hype recently, but regular mushrooms like white button, shiitake, and portobello also have tremendous health benefits. People who eat mushrooms may have a lower chance of developing anxiety and depression, according to a large observational study.

The study, published in the Journal of Affective Disorders, used dietary and mental health data from more than 24,000 participants to draw the association between mushroom consumption and lower odds of depression.

"Mushrooms are a potent source of antioxidants, such as ergothioneine and potassium, which could reduce oxidative stress and inflammation. These are known to be risk factors for depression," says Xiang Gao, MD, PhD, a professor and director of the Nutritional Epidemiology Lab at The Pennsylvania State University and a co-author of the study.

Ergothioneine is an amino acid with potent antioxidant properties present in high levels in mushrooms. Having high levels of ergothioneine in the body may help to prevent oxidative stress, which could also reduce the symptoms of depression.

Potassium is an important mineral that helps to regulate fluid in the body and nerve signals. Mushrooms contain potassium, which may help to lower the risk of anxiety.

Mushrooms are pretty high in Vitamin D, especially if it's being grown in an area with a lot of UV light. And that's one of those nutrients that most of us are walking around deficient in.

Source: Verywell Health

https://www.verywellhealth.com/mushroom-lower-risk-depression-5205838