Mushroom Coffee: Supercharged Brew Or Just A Fad?

Touted as a healthier alternative to regular coffee, mushroom coffee is a blend of ground coffee beans and medicinal mushrooms. While it has gained popularity for its purported health benefits, there is limited research to support these claims. Proponents of mushroom coffee attribute various advantages to the drink, including improved mental and physical performance, enhanced immunity, better sleep, and reduced inflammation and stress. However, the lack of human studies on its health effects raises questions about its effectiveness. The high cost of mushroom coffee, which is often double the price of regular coffee, is also a significant consideration. While it may be a suitable option for those seeking to reduce their caffeine intake, the potential health benefits of mushroom coffee remain largely unverified.

Lack of research

While there is some promising preliminary evidence, more comprehensive research on the health effects of mushroom coffee is needed. Most existing studies have been conducted on animals or in test tubes, and human research is required to substantiate the health claims.

The lack of human studies means that information about safe dosages, who would benefit from mushroom coffee, who should avoid it, and potential interactions with medications is largely unknown. This knowledge gap raises safety concerns about consuming mushroom coffee.

Additionally, the specific combination of mushrooms and coffee beans in mushroom coffee blends has not been extensively studied. It is unclear whether the positive or negative health effects of mushrooms and coffee beans are amplified, negated, or remain unchanged when combined.

The high cost of mushroom coffee, often double the price of regular coffee, is another factor to consider. This higher price point is attributed to the use of medicinal mushrooms grown in their natural habitats rather than commercially farmed ones.

While the existing research suggests potential health benefits, the lack of comprehensive human studies makes it challenging to verify the efficacy and safety of mushroom coffee conclusively.

High cost

The high cost of mushroom coffee is a significant factor to consider when deciding whether to incorporate it into your routine. It is approximately twice as expensive as regular coffee, with a 12 oz (340 g) bag costing double the price of a standard coffee. This elevated price is attributed to the use of medicinal mushrooms, which are often grown in their natural habitats rather than commercially farmed.

The financial aspect of mushroom coffee is particularly notable given the lack of extensive research supporting its purported health benefits. While it is generally considered safe for most people, there is limited scientific evidence to validate the numerous health claims made by manufacturers. Most studies on the benefits of medicinal mushrooms have been conducted in test tubes or on animals, and there is a scarcity of human-based research.

The high cost of mushroom coffee may be a deterrent for those who want to experience its potential health advantages. However, it is worth noting that consuming whole mushrooms as part of your diet can provide similar or even greater health benefits. By incorporating fresh mushrooms into your meals, you can obtain various nutrients, including B vitamins, vitamin D, selenium, and potassium. Additionally, eating mushrooms can provide you with fibre, which is lacking in the processed form found in mushroom coffee.

The decision to consume mushroom coffee involves weighing the high cost against the potential health benefits. While it may offer some advantages, such as reduced caffeine intake and improved sleep, the lack of comprehensive research and the availability of alternative options, such as eating whole mushrooms, are important considerations in light of the substantial financial investment required.

Taste

While the health benefits of mushroom coffee are uncertain, the taste is a different story.

Despite what you may imagine, mushroom coffee doesn't actually taste like mushrooms. It tastes similar to regular coffee, perhaps with a slightly nuttier or earthier flavour. This is because the mushrooms are dried and ground, then blended with regular coffee grounds. The mushrooms go through a drying and extraction process to pull out the beneficial compounds, so you won't have mushroom chunks floating in your coffee.

Registered dietitian Beth Czerwony says, "Mushroom coffee tastes pretty similar to regular coffee. It is, after all, coffee with mushroom extracts blended in. It tastes like coffee because it is coffee!"

There are many different types of mushroom coffee available, including mushroom coffee grounds, pre-made mushroom coffee lattes, instant mushroom coffee packets, and mushroom coffee pods. Each of these products has its own flavour profile.

Some people with allergies or those taking prescription medications should consult a doctor before trying mushroom coffee. People with digestive issues or kidney problems should also be cautious, as mushroom coffee may cause further upset.

Caffeine content

Mushroom coffee is marketed as a healthier alternative to regular coffee, with less caffeine content. It typically contains an equal mix of ground mushrooms and ground coffee beans. The caffeine content in mushroom coffee is lower than in regular coffee, which may be beneficial for individuals who are sensitive to caffeine or want to reduce their intake.

The reduced caffeine content in mushroom coffee can lead to less jitteriness throughout the day and potentially improve sleep quality. However, it is important to note that mushroom coffee itself may not directly improve sleep, but rather the decrease in caffeine consumption may contribute to better sleep. For caffeine-sensitive individuals, even low caffeine intake can cause negative side effects such as anxiety, rapid heart rate, and an upset stomach. Therefore, the reduced caffeine content in mushroom coffee may be advantageous for those looking to minimise these potential side effects.

While the exact caffeine amount in mushroom coffee depends on the specific product and preparation method, it is generally understood to contain approximately half the caffeine of regular coffee. This reduction in caffeine is due to the blend of ground mushrooms and coffee beans, resulting in a lower proportion of coffee beans compared to a standard cup of coffee.

It is important to note that while mushroom coffee may offer a reduced caffeine option, the health claims associated with it are largely unverified. There is limited research on the specific benefits of mushroom coffee, and most studies on medicinal mushrooms have been conducted in test tubes or on animals, rather than humans. Therefore, while mushroom coffee may provide a lower-caffeine alternative, the extent of its health benefits remains uncertain.

Health benefits

While there is some promising evidence of the health benefits of mushroom coffee, more research is needed to verify these claims, especially in blends of mushrooms and coffee beans. Most studies have been conducted in test tubes or on animals, and human research is required to confirm the health benefits.

Improved Immunity

Test tube studies have shown that Turkey tail and its fermented substrates have immune-boosting properties. Chaga, a type of mushroom used in mushroom coffee, also contains polyphenols and other antioxidants that can bolster immune defences.

Cancer Prevention

Studies indicate that Lion's mane, Reishi, Turkey tail, Chaga, and Cordyceps may be supportive therapies for cancer patients, helping to fight nausea and vomiting.

Stress Relief

Adaptogens in mushroom coffee may reduce the amount of cortisol, a stress hormone, in your system, thereby helping to reduce the effect of stress on your body.

Reduced Inflammation

Mushrooms contain polyphenols and anti-inflammatory substances, which can help reduce inflammation in the body.

Better Sleep

Mushroom coffee is lower in caffeine than regular coffee, so it can help people who are sensitive to caffeine get a better night's rest.

Frequently asked questions