Some people think they’re nutritional nothings. But jazzing up pizza, soup, and sandwiches with mushrooms could mean a big something for your heart . . .

. . . and that "something" is clearer arteries. A potent antioxidant in mushrooms could help cut down on risky plaque buildup.

A Whole Lotta Ergo
Mushrooms may be the top source of ergothioneine. And in a lab study, the substance reigned supreme in inhibiting adhesion molecules -- the ones responsible for helping plaque-forming cells latch onto blood vessel walls. Ergothioneine is found in other foods, too, like wheat germ and chicken liver. But the amount in white button mushrooms is 4 to 12 times higher, and meaty portobello mushrooms have even more. (Suddenly hungry? Try this Rustic Mushroom Tart recipe from EatingWell. It’s simple to assemble and better than pizza!)

Cancer Prevention, Too?
White button mushrooms may also have cancer-fighting powers. In animal studies, powdered white mushrooms ramped up production of natural killer cells that help protect against tumors. Here’s one more way mushrooms might make you healthier.

Easy Recipes with a Twist
Use mushrooms to put a healthy new twist on old favorites with these EatingWell recipes:

• Here’s how to quickly throw together a slow-cooker recipe for chili with mushrooms.
• Check out this mushroom-y update on (yum) sloppy joes.
• Make comfort foods like lasagna healthier -- and
  tastier -- with mushrooms. Here’s how.

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