Do Mushrooms Count as Vegetables?
Mushrooms have long been celebrated as a delicious culinary treat, but do they really count as vegetables?
Are Mushrooms Even Plants?
The first question to answer is whether or not mushrooms are plants. Surprisingly, they are actually the fruiting body of underground fungi, not actual plants. This does not mean that they don’t qualify as vegetables, though.
Are Mushrooms Nutritious?
Mushrooms are extremely nutritious and are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They are a great source of dietary fiber, folate, potassium, and selenium. They are also low in calories and fat and are cholesterol-free.
Can Mushrooms be Considered Vegetables?
When it comes to dietary guidelines, mushrooms are often grouped with vegetables for a variety of reasons. First, they are generally eaten in similar ways as vegetables. Second, they provide many of the same health benefits as vegetables. Finally, they are often used to replace meat in vegetarian and vegan dishes.
Conclusion
Mushrooms can be considered vegetables for a variety of reasons. They are nutrient-dense, low in calories, cholesterol-free, and provide many of the same health benefits as other vegetables. They can also be used as a delicious and nutritious substitute for meat in vegetarian and vegan dishes.
