Dinosaur Dry Goods

Are Mushrooms Good for You

by Monica Reinagel, M.S., L.D./N.

Are Mushrooms a Vegetable?

A mushroom is neither a fruit nor a vegetable; technically mushrooms aren’t even plants. They are a special type of fungus—a notion that puts some people off. If you don’t mind the fungus part, though, mushrooms are a great addition to a healthy diet—not to mention totally delicious.

Are Mushrooms Good for You?

There are many different types of edible mushrooms, everything from Japanese shiitake and enoki to Italian porcini to the common white button mushroom and the ever-popular portabella, also known as crimini. The various kinds of mushrooms all have different flavors, shapes, and textures—which is fun for culinary types. Although the nutrient profiles vary from type to type, most mushrooms are good sources of B vitamins, selenium, iron, and other minerals. more...