Slippery Jack mushroom, also called Suillus luteus is a member of the Bolete family of mushrooms. It gets its name from its brown cap which is sticky or slimy in wet conditions. Unlike other kinds of mushrooms, Slippery Jack can be recognized due to its lack of gills, using pores and tubes instead. Although Slippery Jack can be found in almost every continent in the world, it is not as known as other mushrooms but is quite as nutritious.
The Slippery Jack was first identified in 1753 by Carl Linnaeus, who is often dubbed the Father of Taxonomy. [1]
Slippery Jack is edible and can be used in the preparation of stews and soups. They have a light yellow colour when they are younger, turning dark green as they age.
Apart from their pleasant taste, the Slippery Jack mushroom also has some health benefits, just like other kinds of edible mushrooms. So you can be sure that your body has a lot to gain when you consume this type of mushroom. Here are some of the health benefits of slippery jack mushroom.
1. It Contains Antioxidants
Mushrooms, like the Slippery Jack, are a rich source of antioxidants, particularly selenium. These antioxidants help to fight free radicals in the body. These free radicals damage cells and increase the risk of cancer. Antioxidants help to get rid of these free radicals from your body, preventing cancer. This also helps to boost your immune system, keeping you healthier.
2. It Lowers Cholesterol And Sugar Levels
Slippery Jack has very little cholesterol and adds almost no cholesterol to the body, but it also helps to reduce the bad cholesterol levels in your body. This is because it contains beta-glucan, a kind of soluble fibre that responsible for reducing cholesterol levels. This beta-glucan also helps regulate blood sugar, reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes. This makes it great for those with high blood sugar and cholesterol levels. [2]
3. It Helps Prevent Cancer
Like we noted above, Slippery Jack contains antioxidants like selenium, which help to prevent free radicals from contaminating cells and making them cancerous. Also, since it boosts your immune system, it increases your body’s response to fighting cancerous agents.
4. It Promotes Heart Health
Eating Slippery Jack mushroom is also good for your heart. It contains potassium, which helps to regulate blood pressure and reduce the chances of hypertension and other heart diseases. It also contains vitamin C, which is good for the heart as well. Beta-glucan fibre helps to reduce bad cholesterol levels, keeping the heart in good shape. [3]
5. Rich Source Of Vitamin D
Slippery Jack is a good source of vitamin D and is a great option for those who are vegan or looking for a non-animal source of vitamin D. Vitamin D strengthens the bones and reduces the risks of getting the flu.
NOTE:
Before using the Slippery Jack, it is best to clean the cap properly because the slimy head may have attracted a lot of dirt and debris. Alternatively, you can remove the slimy cap before cooking. Some luteus and other Suillus species could cause allergic reactions in some people or digestive problems that appear to result from consuming the slimy skin. [4]
YOU SHOULD ALSO READ:
- 7 Amazing Health Benefits of Sago Worm
- 8 Specific Health Benefits of Halim Seeds (Garden Cress)
- 7 Grand Health Benefits of Guava Leaves
- 10 Exciting Health Benefits of Ehu Seeds (Monodora myristica)
Collins Nwokolo is a human physiologist, writer and health enthusiast. He loves writing helpful articles on health and fitness, which he enjoys sharing with everyone.
