Are shiitake mushrooms dietary fiber

Mushrooms are a good source of dietary fiber, with approximately 3 grams of dietary fiber per 100 grams of fresh mushrooms. Dietary fiber mainly exists in the cap and stem of shiitake mushrooms, including two types: soluble dietary fiber and insoluble dietary fiber.

The soluble dietary fiber in lentinus edodes, such as gum and β - glucan, can absorb water and expand to form gel like substances, slow down the gastric emptying speed, help control the rise of blood sugar after meals, and can combine with cholesterol to promote its excretion. Insoluble dietary fibers such as cellulose and lignin can increase fecal volume, stimulate intestinal peristalsis, and prevent constipation. These two types of dietary fiber work together and play an important role in maintaining the balance of gut microbiota. After drying, the moisture content of shiitake mushrooms decreases, resulting in a relative increase in dietary fiber content. The dietary fiber content of dried shiitake mushrooms can reach 3-4 times that of fresh shiitake mushrooms. But dried shiitake mushrooms need to be fully soaked before consumption, otherwise it may affect digestion and absorption. There are differences in dietary fiber content among different varieties of shiitake mushrooms, and varieties with thicker mushroom caps usually have higher fiber content.

It is recommended to pair shiitake mushrooms with other high fiber foods such as oats, brown rice, and green leafy vegetables to further increase dietary fiber intake. For people with weak gastrointestinal function, the consumption of shiitake mushrooms should be controlled to avoid discomfort such as bloating caused by excessive dietary fiber intake at once. Maintaining a moderate and diverse intake of mushrooms in daily diet can help meet the body's demand for dietary fiber.