How much space should you give fungi? As mushroom as possible.

   

    Mushrooms are so interesting and vital to the eco-system. A mushroom is the fleshly, spore-bearing fruiting body of a fungus, typically produced above ground on soil or another food source such a decaying tree. The term "mushroom" and its variations may have been derived from the French word mousseron in reference to moss. Delineation between edible and poisonous fungi is not clear-cut, so a mushroom may be edible, poisonous, or unpalatable.

    I love how these fungi can be found almost anywhere. I also love to eat them but my digestive system does not due to the FODMAP content in them, so over the years I have found that the only mushrooms that I can eat are oyster mushrooms.  First, let me explain what FODMAP means. FODMAP stands for fermentable oligosaccharides disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols, which are short-chain carbohydrates that are poorly absorbed in the small intestine. These carbohydrates can cause digestive issues, particularly in individuals with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), leading to symptoms like gas, bloating and abdominal pain. For me it was immediate diarrhea which is never pleasant. Foods have some level of FODMAP and mushrooms are high in FODMAP. Oyster mushrooms and canned champignon mushrooms are low in FODMAP so I can tolerate them better.

    Having said all that, I still find them fascinating. If you want to learn more about fungi click here to view the trailer for the documentary, Fantastic Fungi. The movie is so educational and beautifully filmed.

    Taking photos of any mushrooms I see on our travels is a must. Below are some of my favourite photos I have taken during our years of travel. There are many more but I like these the best.

        Have you ever come across a subject like mushrooms that you just have to photograph? Mushrooms are only one of mine. I like to take photos of flowers, bees on flowers, leaves and trees. Look around and see what fascinates you. More than likely you have a camera in your hand... Use it!