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Mushrooms - the healthy ingredient Did you know there's a relationship between diabetes and heart disease? Combine high blood glucose levels with another common health issue such as high cholesterol, and the risk increases. Many health problems can occur simultaneously because of a common underlying cause, such as being overweight. But not all health problems are obvious - some can go undetected for years. Diabetes is a silent killer in Australia, as only around 50% of sufferers are diagnosed. In fact, Diabetes Australia estimates there are 3.2 million of us with diabetes or pre-diabetes. For adults, the right diet, a healthy weight and being active can actually prevent the onset of Type 2 diabetes. The central issue is blood glucose levels. High blood glucose levels cause long-term damage to the kidneys and the eyes, while also increasing the risk of heart disease. Can mushrooms make a difference? There is now evidence that compounds in mushrooms, such as mushroom fibre, can assist in keeping blood sugar levels normal. The CSIRO looked at research on mushrooms and diabetes and found that mushroom extracts have the ability to to lower blood glucose, and lower the blood fats called triglycerides and cholesterol, while improving insulin sensitivity. This effect was confirmed in published research from the University of Western Sydney which showed that mushrooms have an effect in lowering blood glucose levels and blood cholesterol, as well as reducing the appetite. The research strongly suggested that there are unique compounds in mushrooms which are having a very good effect on our health. Ongoing research in Australia and overseas is expanding the health story for mushrooms. One thing is for certain, whether you're eating out or making a meal at home, mushrooms are the healthy ingredient. 
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