Nutritionist, Elikem Adzoma, has urged Ghanaians, particularly diabetic patients to consume more mushroom since it is considered to have great anti-diabetic properties.

According to him, regular consumption of mushroom could reduce cholesterol, high blood pressure and offers protection against liver and chronic diseases.

Speaking to JoyNews in Sunyani, he noted that mushroom also has essential health benefits for pregnant women and children.

“Research shows that consuming a diet rich in vegetables like mushrooms and other vitamin-rich foods may help protect against gestational diabetes, which affects approximately 14% of pregnancies worldwide and affects both the mother and child,” he said.

The nutritionist stated that mushrooms can nourish the body at a fundamental level, increase energy, reduce stress, boost cognition and mental power, and elevate the moods of individuals.

Adding that “mushroom is capable of boosting the immune system and also fight off pathogens, bacteria as well as viruses.

“Mushroom contains protein, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants including selenium as well as choline among others and have various health benefits to the human body."

He explained that mushrooms, beans, brown rice, and whole-grain foods can all contribute to a person’s daily requirement of fibre to improve one's cardiovascular health.

According to the nutritionist, potassium in mushrooms can also help regulate blood pressure, and this may decrease the risk of hypertension and cardiovascular disease.

He subsequently advised people to reduce the intake of salt but eat more foods that contain potassium at all times.