NUTRITIONIST’S NOTEBOOK: Mushrooms

Neither plant nor animal, mushrooms are a uniquely different type of organism. They belong in the fungi kingdom, along with yeast and mould and their anatomy is very different to plants. Generally low in fat, they contain fibre, protein and several minerals and vitamins, including copper, selenium, potassium, magnesium, zinc and a number of B vitamins. Mushrooms also contain some very specific antioxidants that help to reduce inflammation and protect our cells from damage.

Texture champions

Mushroom cell walls contain a type of tough fibre called chitin which is responsible for their chewiness. We can’t digest chitin but it