In this performance task, we are tasked to do a research about vegetables

that we like. And the vegetable I chose to research are mushrooms.

Despite being categorized as a vegetable, mushrooms are neither an animal

food nor a plant food. They are a form of fungus that has an ingredient called
ergosterol that resembles animal cholesterol in structure. Mushrooms also has
more similarities to animals and plants, yet, no definitions offered by vegetarian
authority claim that mushrooms are off-limits to vegetarians.

There are different types of mushrooms, from edible mushrooms to not so

edible mushrooms, these edible mushrooms are shiitake, oyster, button
mushrooms and more. Edible mushrooms are known to be safe to eat because
they have been eaten frequently with no ill effects. Poisonous mushrooms have
been identified because someone ate them and became ill or died as a result.

Mushrooms are a great source of vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin D,

vitamin B, selenium, potassium, and copper. Some mushrooms like shiitake and
maitake contain beta-glucans, which help to stimulate the immune system and
fight infections. Certain types of mushrooms contain anti-inflammatory
compounds, such as ergothioneine and polysaccharides which may help reduce
inflammation of the body. The high fiber content in mushrooms can help to
improve digestion and prevent constipation. Some studies that some mushrooms,
like reishi and turkey tail mushrooms may have anticancer properties and may
help reduce the risk of some type of cancer.

Overall, mushrooms are a nutritious and delicious addition to a healthy

diet, and they offer a range of health benefits.