Laura Smith
Mushroom coffee has gained popularity for its purported health benefits, but is it safe to consume? Mushroom coffee is typically made by drying and grinding medicinal mushrooms, such as reishi, chaga, and lion's mane, and blending them with coffee beans. Proponents of mushroom coffee claim that it can boost immunity, enhance cognitive function, improve sleep, and provide anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. However, there is limited scientific research specifically on mushroom coffee, and the health claims remain largely unproven. While it is probably safe to try mushroom coffee, especially if you are sensitive to caffeine, it may be more beneficial to incorporate whole mushrooms into your diet to ensure optimal nutrient intake.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Taste | ""Nutty" or "earthy", though some may not notice any flavour difference from regular coffee |
| Cost | Twice the price of regular coffee |
| Caffeine content | Less caffeine than regular coffee |
| Health benefits | Unproven, but claimed benefits include improved sleep, more energy, improved focus, immune-boosting, reduced inflammation, weight loss, reduced stress, and improved heart health |
| Risks | May be hard on digestion; insufficient research on side effects and safe intake amounts |
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What You'll Learn
Lack of research on health claims
While some purported health benefits of mushroom coffee have been observed in studies, there is a general lack of research on the health effects of the beverage.
Mushroom coffee is typically made from a combination of regular coffee and ground medicinal mushrooms. The mushrooms are dried and ground, and their beneficial ingredients are extracted and added to the coffee. Common varieties used in mushroom coffee mixes include chaga, lion's mane, reishi, cordyceps, king trumpet, and turkey tail, which are chosen for their real or perceived health benefits.
Proponents of mushroom coffee claim that it can improve mental and physical performance, boost immunity, aid weight loss, enhance sleep quality, and reduce inflammation and stress. However, there is limited research to support these claims. While some studies have shown that the adaptogens in mushrooms can affect cortisol levels and reduce stress, it is unclear if these benefits remain after the mushrooms are processed and blended into coffee.
A 2018 study found that the extract of Ganoderma lucidum (reishi) boosted the immune system and stopped tumor growth in mice with liver cancer. While this study is promising, similar studies on humans are needed before conclusions can be drawn about the anti-cancer properties of reishi in people. Additionally, research from 2022 indicates that cordyceps may help manage irregular heartbeats, but more research is required to confirm this.
Some experts recommend consuming whole mushrooms instead of mushroom coffee to obtain their nutritional benefits. Fresh mushrooms can be easily incorporated into various dishes, providing numerous nutrients, including B vitamins, vitamin D, selenium, and potassium.
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Potential health benefits
While there is limited research on the health benefits of mushroom coffee, it is believed to have several positive effects on the body. Here are some of the potential health benefits associated with consuming this beverage:
Improved immunity: Medicinal mushrooms, such as those used in mushroom coffee, have been found to possess immune-boosting properties. The presence of polyphenols and other antioxidants in mushrooms contributes to enhancing the body's immune defences. Additionally, according to a 2018 laboratory study, the extract of Ganoderma lucidum (reishi) was observed to suppress tumour growth and boost the immune system in mice with liver cancer.
Reduced inflammation: Mushrooms contain anti-inflammatory substances, including polyphenols and antioxidants, which may help reduce inflammation in the body. However, it is unclear if these anti-inflammatory properties are retained in mushroom extracts used in coffee.
Stress relief: Mushrooms in mushroom coffee are adaptogens, which are compounds that can help manage stress. Adaptogens can regulate cortisol, a stress hormone, in the body. By reducing the amount of cortisol, adaptogens may help alleviate the negative impact of stress on the body.
Better sleep: While mushroom coffee itself may not directly induce better sleep, the reduced caffeine intake associated with it can improve sleep quality for those sensitive to caffeine.
Metabolism boost: Some brands claim that mushroom coffee may aid weight loss by increasing metabolism and promoting fat burning. However, there is no concrete evidence to support these weight loss claims.
It is important to note that while these potential health benefits exist, there is a lack of comprehensive research and human studies specifically on mushroom coffee. The health effects of consuming whole mushrooms may differ from those of drinking mushroom coffee due to the processing and blending involved. Additionally, it is always advisable to consult a healthcare professional before incorporating new substances into your diet.
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Taste and texture
The taste and texture of mushroom coffee vary depending on the brand and the type of mushrooms used. Most people report a "'nutty' or "earthy" taste, with notes of prune and toasted almond, along with a woodier flavour. Some mushroom coffee blends are described as having a funkier taste than regular coffee, while others claim that their products taste just like regular coffee.
One brand, Rasa Original, offers a caffeine-free blend of plants and herbs like chicory, dandelion, burdock, date seed, and cinnamon, along with supplements. The taste is described as something between a coffee and an herbal tea, with notes akin to a milder Ricola cough drop.
Another brand, La Republica Superfoods, offers an instant mushroom coffee powder made from Columbian Arabica beans and a full slate of mushrooms. This product is described as having a flatter flavour and texture, which is a common issue with instant coffees.
Some mushroom coffee blends are designed to be thicker in texture, with sediment at the bottom of the glass, which some customers embrace as a "bonus mud" that can be topped with more water for an extra drink. Adding a creamer with fat, such as butter, can also help to smooth out the texture and enhance the earthy flavour of the mushrooms.
While the taste and texture of mushroom coffee can vary, it is important to note that there is limited research on the health benefits of consuming medicinal mushrooms, especially in humans. Therefore, it is recommended to consult a healthcare provider or dietitian before regularly consuming mushroom coffee.
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Cost
Mushroom coffee is often significantly more expensive than regular coffee. A 12-ounce bag of mushroom coffee from Four Sigmatic, for example, costs around $20, while a bag of regular coffee typically costs less than $10. This higher price point is likely due to the fact that medicinal mushrooms are generally not commercially farmed and may be hard to come by.
The cost of mushroom coffee is a significant consideration when deciding whether to incorporate it into your routine, especially given the lack of proven health benefits. While some people may be willing to pay a premium for the potential health benefits of mushroom coffee, it is important to note that the science behind these claims is uncertain. There is currently a lack of well-designed clinical trials and human research specifically on mushroom coffee, so there is no guarantee that any health benefits will be retained after the mushrooms are processed and blended into coffee drinks.
In fact, some sources suggest that eating whole mushrooms is a better way to obtain their nutritional benefits, rather than drinking them in processed form in expensive coffee. This is because the process of harvesting, drying, and processing the mushrooms may reduce their nutritional value. Additionally, there is limited research on the combined health effects of mixing mushrooms and coffee beans, so it is unclear whether there are any additional benefits beyond those of regular coffee or mushrooms consumed separately.
Therefore, if you are primarily interested in the potential health benefits of mushrooms, it may be more cost-effective to incorporate whole mushrooms into your diet rather than switching to mushroom coffee. However, if you are sensitive to caffeine or prefer the taste of mushroom coffee, the higher cost may be worth it for you. Ultimately, the decision to try mushroom coffee depends on your personal preferences, budget, and health considerations.
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Preparation
Mushroom coffee is prepared by harvesting, drying, and processing mushrooms, then blending them with coffee beans, cacao, or tea blends such as matcha or chai. The mushrooms are dehydrated and ground into a fine powder before being mixed with ground coffee beans in a 1:1 ratio. The preparation methods for mushroom coffee are similar to those for regular coffee, resulting in mochas, lattes, or black coffee drinks.
Medicinal mushrooms such as reishi, chaga, lion's mane, cordyceps, king trumpet, and turkey tail are commonly used in mushroom coffee mixes. These mushrooms are chosen for their perceived health benefits, including improved immunity, mental and physical performance, and better sleep. The mushrooms are believed to contain adaptogens, plant-based compounds that help the body adapt and respond to stress.
While the presence of mushrooms adds potential health benefits, it is important to note that there is limited research specifically on the health effects of mushroom coffee. Most studies on the benefits of mushrooms have been conducted in test tubes or on animals, and there is a lack of well-designed clinical trials on humans. Therefore, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional before incorporating mushroom coffee into your routine, especially if you have an ongoing health condition or are taking medication.
Additionally, mushroom coffee is typically more expensive than regular coffee, often costing twice as much. This higher price point is partly due to the use of medicinal mushrooms, which are generally not commercially farmed and may be challenging to source.
In conclusion, mushroom coffee is prepared by blending ground mushrooms with coffee beans or other beverages, and it is marketed for its potential health benefits. However, more research is needed to verify these claims, and it is important to consider the higher cost and potential health implications before making it a part of your routine.
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Frequently asked questions
Mushroom coffee is a combination of regular coffee and ground mushrooms. The mushrooms are dried and ground, and then blended with coffee beans, resulting in a drink with a nutty or earthy taste.
Advocates of mushroom coffee claim that it has numerous health benefits, including immune-boosting properties, reduced inflammation, improved mental and physical performance, better sleep, and weight loss. However, there is limited research to support these claims.
There is limited research on the side effects of mushroom coffee, so key questions about safe intake amounts and contraindications remain unanswered. It is always recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before trying new supplements or making significant dietary changes.
Most people describe the taste of mushroom coffee as nutty or earthy. Some people may not notice any difference in taste compared to regular coffee.
Mushroom coffee can be purchased online or at specialty health food stores. However, it tends to be more expensive than regular coffee.
