How To

How to Lower Cholesterol With Shiitake Mushroom

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By eHow Contributing Writer
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The shiitake mushroom grows on the wood of dead deciduous trees in Japan. It has been used for its medicinal affects for 6,000 yeas. Shiitake mushrooms can lower your cholesterol levels and promote the bad cholesterol, LDL, to convert to good cholesterol, HDL. Shiitake mushrooms also help your body eliminate whatever cholesterol it's taken in.

Difficulty: Easy
Instructions
  1. Step 1

    Know that it's shiitake mushroom's low concentration of lentinan that helps to lower cholesterol. It's also good for treating viruses and boosting your immune system.

  2. Step 2

    Take 1,000 to 4,000 milligrams per day of shiitake tablets or capsules. If using a fluid extract, aim for 3 to 16 milliliters or 3,000 to 6,000 milligrams per day if taking a LEM extract.

  3. Step 3

    Find shiitake mushrooms in your grocery store. Or go to an Asian food store. They usually carry shiitake mushrooms.

  4. Step 4

    Look for shiitake mushrooms that are plump and firm. Avoid the mushrooms that are wrinkled or have slimy spots.

  5. Step 5

    Wipe shiitake mushrooms with a damp cloth when you get them home. Water can make them soggy so use very little, if any.

  6. Step 6

    Store shiitake mushrooms in the refrigerator. Put them in a paper bag and close it loosely. They should keep for a week.

  7. Step 7

    Add shiitake mushrooms to soups, sauté them with garlic and onions to create a topping to meat or add them to tomato sauce to top pasta.

Tips & Warnings
  • Eating shiitake mushroom powder for a long time can cause stomach upset, photosensitivity and dermatitis.
  • Limit your shiitake mushroom intake if you have gout or kidney problems.

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