Aging with Grace: Aided by The Power of Mushrooms

Singapore is known to have an ageing population, with an age trajectory trending towards almost half of the population (47%) being at least 65 years old by 2050. With the onset of COVID-19 and the realization of the real threat of pandemics, there has been an unprecedented surge in the desire to boost immunity and to take better care of one’s health. A study from France found that adults especially between the ages of 45 and 54 years are now actively seeking out more local, functional foods, or foods that boost the immunity while supporting the local economy. With a magnified focus on maintaining and protecting one’s health, there has also been a heightened demand for organic foods.

As we age, regardless of how gracefully, multiple physical concerns arise. With each annual health check-up, it would be hard for us not to notice the increasing expanse of tests required. Our ever-changing physiques and mental states require additional care and keen attentiveness to the we foods that we consume. We come to realize that caring for our health is not only for ourselves, but also for the sake of our children and grandchildren. In addition to the myriad of vitamins and supplements recommended for older adults, nutrient-rich plant-based superfoods such as mushrooms, are gaining increased attention for their protective and restorative properties, helping our bodies thrive in our silver years.

Here are 3 reasons why mushrooms are a great addition to senior adult diets, and a few innovative ways to eat them.

1. Immunity Boosters

As an immunity power couple, the beta-glucan polysaccharides and lentinan found in mushrooms work hand in hand to boost our immune system. Beta-glucan is found in the cell walls of most common mushrooms while lentinan can be found in Shiitake mushrooms.

Are you finding most chips or crunchy foods too tough on the teeth? We recommend our Shiitake Mushroom Jerky for its unique flavor and texture, ideal for snacking on while watching your favorite afternoon broadcasts or for sharing with friends and family when they come over to visit.

2. Cancer Fighting Warriors

While many pharmaceutical companies boldly claim that their pricey supplements protect against cancer, studies have shown that mushrooms can actually prevent or fight cancer. One study identified 5 types of mushrooms, including oyster mushrooms, that “significantly suppressed breast cancer cell growth”. A longitudinal study from Japan observed 36,000 men for over a decade and noted that those who consumed mushrooms more than 3 times a week had a 17% lower risk of developing prostate cancer, as compared those who consumed mushrooms less than once a week.

To make it easy and convenient for you to enjoy mushrooms frequently, our Shiitake Mushroom Floss is perfect for breakfast-time on your favorite wholemeal bread, or for lunch, on top of a delicious warm bowl of congee. Mushroom Floss looks and tastes just like your favorite pork or chicken floss, except that it is made of Shiitake mushrooms - making it plant-based and naturally vegan!

3. Staying Alert, Staying Alive

Anti-oxidants are the health buzz word of our time. What do they do, exactly? Simply put, anti-oxidants help to reverse the oxidizing damage that is done when food is being turned into energy. As a result, they help to protect our organs and cells, and aid in cell renewal and recovery. Mushrooms are rich sources of two potent anti-oxidants: ergothioneine and glutathione.

A scientific study found that this power-packed anti-oxidant combination, taken in the form of just five button mushrooms a day, may help to prevent wrinkles and protect against both Parkinson's and Alzheimer's Diseases. A 2019 study conducted in Singapore examined the eating habits of 600 seniors over the age of 60 and found that those who ate more than 300g of cooked mushrooms a week were twice as likely to not suffer from mild cognitive impairment.

So how can you achieve this weekly consumption benchmark of 300g of mushrooms?

The Mushroom Farm’s newest addition, Pearl Oyster Mushroom Crunchies, are ideal for all-day munching, with small buttery morsels that are both scrumptious and easy on the jaw. For a meatier mushroom mouthful, our bestselling Shiitake Mushroom Crunchies are made with whole Shiitakes and are crisp and naturally sweet. Both of these crunchies also come in snack-sized packs, which are easier to carry around.

Need more motivation to eat mushrooms? Here are 3 more reasons why you should consume mushrooms and consider giving them as gifts of health to your family and friends today!