That’s Mayo as in clinic. Turns out, my fave is also a nutritional hero. Mushrooms are low-cal “and have virtually no fat, [no] cholesterol [veggies never do], or sodium. Putting a grilled Portobello in your hamburger bun in place of an equivalent-sized, 95% lean hamburger patty is a great way to make a meal healthier, yet still satisfying.” (1)

“In addition, mushrooms contain a surprising array of nutrients. In a dish or stir-fry containing 1 cup of chopped, white mushrooms, the mushrooms will contribute about 2.2 grams protein (All following data based on 1 cup measurement, chopped: broccoli - 2.5 grams), almost a gram of fiber (broccoli - 2.3 grams) and modest amounts of several minerals, including potassium (mushrooms – 223 micrograms, broccoli – 278 micrograms) and selenium (mushrooms – 6.5 micrograms, broccoli – 2.2 micrograms). As for vitamins, mushrooms contain fair amounts of niacin (mushrooms - 2.5 milligrams, broccoli – 0.6 milligrams) and riboflavin (mushrooms - 0.3 micrograms, broccoli - 0.1 micrograms). Laboratory studies have shown that phytochemicals and other bioactive substances in several common varieties of mushrooms may have anti-cancer properties.” (1)

Good to know but far better to eat! Check out my mushroom recipes. Veronese Mushroom Sauce  and Portobello Mushroom Palliards with Spinach and White Beans.

(1) Second Opinion – Mayo Clinic Health Letter – www.HealthLetter.MayoClinic.com, July 2008