Health
Benefits
Health
benefits of mushrooms for humans have focused on immune enhancement properties.
Complex sugars and their derivatives are able to stimulate a higher level of cytokine
production in humans. Whole grains are a good source of B vitamins, vitamin E,
magnesium, iron and fiber as well as other valuable antioxidants not found in
some fruits and vegetables.
Grains
are considered whole when all three parts - bran, germ and endosperm - are present.
We are increasingly aware that fruits and vegetables contain beneficial phytochemicals
and antioxidants, but many of us do not realize that whole grains are often an
even better source of these key nutrients. Most of the antioxidants are found
in the germ and the bran of a grain. Indeed, whole grains are a good source of
B vitamins, vitamin E, magnesium, iron and fiber as well as other valuable antioxidants
not found in some fruits and vegetables.
Legumes
and beans such as: alfalfa, clover, peas, beans, lupins and peanuts are also a
major source of several nutrients most often lacking in Americans’ diets: magnesium,
potassium, folate and fiber. They contain saponins, lignans and phytosterols for
potential benefits in fighting cancer and heart disease. Examples of beans and
legumes are:
Beans:
Black, kidney, lima, white, pinto, garbanzo (chickpeas) and soy beans;
Peas:
Yellow and green split peas (not garden peas)
Lentils:
Yellow, red and green
