Vitamin D Mushrooms May Solve Health Dilemma

Vitamin D Mushrooms May Solve Health Dilemma

Debate at a recent food Symposium has highlighted a growing public health problem of low vitamin D levels in the Australian population and the possibility that the recently released Vitamin D Mushrooms may provide part of the solution to this issue.

With 30% of Australians reportedly suffering the effects of low vitamin D levels, the extent of the problem is clear. Experts at the International Life Sciences Institute scientific conference were not however in agreement on the best way to address the issue, with some suggesting fortification of foods and others wanting further research to determine any future action.

While few foods contain high enough levels of vitamin D to make a difference, the Symposium was told that Vitamin D mushrooms were able to deliver the daily requirements, making them a convenient, whole food option for anyone concerned about their vitamin D levels.

Millions of Australians are believed to have inadequate levels of vitamin D, a problem exacerbated by the avoidance of the sun, nature's natural source of vitamin D. Health issues caused by insufficient levels of vitamin D include high blood pressure and increased risk of breast, kidney and prostate cancer and rickets.

Australian Mushroom Growers Association General Manager Greg Seymour told the Symposium that a single 100g serve of Vitamin D mushrooms – around three button mushrooms - provided the recommended levels of vitamin D.

Mr Seymour said that with four out of five Australians eating mushrooms, there was no need to wait for the experts to decide on fortification, when Vitamin D mushrooms were an ideal way for Australians to do something right now to maintain adequate levels of this important vitamin.

'Mushroom growers are pleased to be part of this discussion because we believe mushrooms can be part of the solution to this public health problem and help deliver the recommended daily intake of vitamin D essential for healthy bones and the prevention of disease."

Mr Seymour said vitamin D mushrooms will be available Australia-wide over the next few months. Consumers should ask their retailer for Vitamin D mushrooms and if they are not in stock, ask them to order them in, he said.