Michael Davis
Mushroom coffee is having a moment, with fans of this fungi-infused brew claiming that it has several health benefits, including better sleep, more energy, improved focus, immune-boosting benefits, and reduced inflammation. However, there is little research to support these health claims. The drink is made by drying mushrooms, extracting their beneficial ingredients, and adding those to regular coffee. While it is probably safe for most people to consume, it may cause allergic reactions in some, and it could interfere with how medications work in your body.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Taste | Similar to regular coffee, but with a nutty or earthy flavor |
| Caffeine content | Half the caffeine of regular coffee |
| Health benefits | Better sleep, more energy, improved focus, improved immunity, reduced inflammation, reduced stress, improved metabolism |
| Downsides | May cause digestive issues, especially for those with kidney problems; may interfere with certain medications; may trigger mushroom allergy |
| Cost | Twice as expensive as regular coffee |
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What You'll Learn
Potential health benefits
While mushroom coffee is having its moment in the spotlight, the science backing its health claims is less certain. Mushroom coffee is made from medicinal mushrooms such as chaga, lion's mane, reishi, cordyceps, king trumpet, and turkey tail. These mushrooms contain a group of bioactive compounds that affect various processes in the body.
Improved Sleep and Reduced Caffeine Intake: Mushroom coffee typically contains about half the caffeine of regular coffee. Reduced caffeine intake can improve sleep quality and leave you less jittery during the day.
Stress Relief: Mushrooms contain adaptogens, which can affect the amount of cortisol (a stress hormone) in your body. Studies show that adaptogens may help to level out the amount of cortisol in your blood and saliva, thereby helping to manage stress.
Boosted Immune System: Mushrooms contain polyphenols and other antioxidants that can bolster your immune defences. The beta-glucans in mushrooms are also believed to strengthen the immune system.
Reduced Inflammation: Mushrooms contain anti-inflammatory compounds, including polyphenols and antioxidants. However, it is unclear if these compounds remain intact after the mushrooms are processed and blended into coffee drinks.
Regulated Blood Sugar: Medicinal mushrooms are known to regulate blood sugar levels. Beta-glucans, a type of bioactive compound in mushrooms, may also help to support healthy blood sugar levels.
While mushroom coffee may offer potential health benefits, it is important to note that there is limited scientific research supporting these claims. Additionally, some people may experience digestive problems or allergic reactions to mushroom coffee, especially those with existing kidney conditions or mushroom allergies.
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Lack of scientific evidence
While mushroom coffee is having a moment in the spotlight, with fans claiming that it has several health benefits, there is a lack of scientific evidence to support these claims.
Mushroom coffee is typically made from medicinal mushrooms, such as chaga, lion's mane, reishi, cordyceps, king trumpet, and turkey tail, rather than the culinary mushrooms bought at grocery stores. People create this drink by drying mushrooms, extracting their beneficial ingredients, and adding those to regular coffee.
There is some promising evidence available regarding the health effects of mushroom coffee, but more research, including human studies, is needed to verify these effects. Most research studies have been conducted in test tubes or animals, and human research is required to substantiate the health claims.
There is no evidence that the purported health benefits of mushrooms are retained after they are processed and blended into coffee drinks. Experts believe that consuming the whole mushroom is the best way to obtain its benefits. Therefore, adding whole mushrooms to your diet is a better option than drinking mushroom coffee.
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High cost
Mushroom coffee is a relatively new trend that has gained popularity for its purported health benefits. However, one of the biggest downsides to drinking mushroom coffee is its high cost.
Mushroom coffee typically costs about twice as much as regular coffee, even when made at home. This is because medicinal mushrooms, such as chaga, lion's mane, reishi, cordyceps, king trumpet, and turkey tail, are used in mushroom coffee mixes, and these mushrooms are chosen for their real or perceived health benefits. The more mature fruiting body of the mushroom has been associated with additional anti-inflammatory and immune system benefits, which may also contribute to the higher cost.
While some of the health claims of mushroom coffee may be valid, many have not been proven in scientific studies. It is also not yet known if the process of drying, extracting, and brewing mushrooms leaves their health benefits intact. Therefore, it may be more cost-effective to add whole mushrooms to your diet instead of drinking mushroom coffee, as you would get the same health benefits without the added expense.
Additionally, the high cost of mushroom coffee may be a barrier for those who are interested in trying it. While some may be willing to pay a premium for the potential health benefits, others may find it too expensive to incorporate into their daily routine. This could limit the accessibility of mushroom coffee to only those who can afford it, creating a financial barrier for those who want to explore its potential advantages.
In conclusion, the high cost of mushroom coffee is a significant factor to consider when deciding whether or not to drink it. While it may offer potential health benefits, the expense may outweigh the advantages for some individuals. It is important to weigh the potential benefits against the financial cost to determine if mushroom coffee is a worthwhile investment for your personal circumstances.
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Allergies and side effects
While mushroom coffee is marketed as a healthier alternative to regular coffee, there is a lack of research to support the health claims made by its manufacturers. Most studies on the health effects of mushrooms have been conducted in test tubes or on animals, and there is limited research on humans.
Allergies
People with mushroom allergies should avoid drinking mushroom coffee as it could trigger unwanted reactions. Mild allergy symptoms include stomach discomfort or nausea, while severe allergic reactions may cause difficulty breathing, hives, swelling, and anaphylaxis. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.
Side Effects
Mushroom coffee contains caffeine, and while it has less caffeine than regular coffee, it has more caffeine than decaffeinated coffee. People with caffeine sensitivity may experience side effects such as anxiety, rapid heart rate, upset stomach, dizziness, heart palpitations, elevated blood pressure, jitteriness, and muscle tension.
Additionally, certain types of mushrooms used in mushroom coffee, such as the chaga variety, contain high levels of oxalates. A diet high in oxalates can increase the risk of developing kidney stones. People with kidney issues or digestive troubles might be more vulnerable to these effects.
Mushroom coffee may also interact with certain medications, including blood thinners, immunosuppressants, and blood pressure medications. It is recommended that individuals taking prescription medications consult their healthcare provider before consuming mushroom coffee.
Furthermore, pregnant or breastfeeding women, children, and individuals with underlying heart issues or autoimmune problems should exercise caution when consuming mushroom coffee due to the potential negative side effects of caffeine consumption.
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Safe alternatives
While mushroom coffee is generally safe to consume, it's important to be cautious about the potential risks associated with it. The purported health benefits of mushroom coffee are not yet fully supported by scientific evidence. To gain the full benefits of mushrooms, it is suggested that consuming whole mushrooms as part of your diet may be a better option. Here are some safe alternatives to consider:
- Add whole mushrooms to your diet: Instead of relying solely on mushroom coffee, try incorporating a variety of edible mushrooms into your meals. Whole mushrooms retain their fibre content and are low in calories and fat, making them a nutritious addition to your diet. Shiitake mushrooms, for example, are a delicious and healthy option.
- Explore other adaptogen-rich beverages: Adaptogens are substances that can help your body manage stress and maintain balance. While mushroom coffee is one source of adaptogens, there are other beverages that offer similar benefits. For example, teas made from adaptogenic herbs like ashwagandha, rhodiola, or holy basil can provide stress-relieving and energizing effects.
- Consider caffeine-free herbal blends: If you're looking to reduce your caffeine intake, there are caffeine-free alternatives to mushroom coffee that can provide similar health benefits. Rasa, for instance, offers a blend of plants and herbs like chicory, dandelion, burdock, date seed, and cinnamon, along with adaptogenic supplements. These blends may provide a similar flavour profile to coffee while reducing your caffeine consumption.
- Try functional mushroom supplements: If you're specifically interested in the benefits of mushrooms, consider taking functional mushroom supplements. Microingredients, for example, offers a 10-mushroom powder supplement that can be easily added to your favourite beverage. This way, you can still enjoy your regular coffee while reaping the potential benefits of mushrooms.
- Opt for a coffee alternative like MUD\WTR™: MUD\WTR is a certified-organic coffee alternative that contains adaptogenic mushrooms and quality ingredients. It provides natural energy and focus without the caffeine crash. With just 35mg of caffeine per serving, it delivers calm energy and mental clarity. It is also versatile and can be enjoyed hot or iced, with coconut milk, or as a chai latte.
While mushroom coffee may offer potential health benefits, it is always recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating any new substance into your diet, especially if you have existing medical conditions or concerns.
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Frequently asked questions
Mushroom coffee is a drink made from coffee with added mushroom extract. It is typically made from medicinal mushrooms such as chaga, lion's mane, reishi, cordyceps, king trumpet, and turkey tail, chosen for their health benefits. It has a similar taste to regular coffee but with a slightly nuttier or earthier flavour.
Proponents of mushroom coffee claim that it has several health benefits, including reduced stress, improved sleep, more energy, improved focus, improved immunity, and reduced inflammation. However, many of these health benefits are unproven, and there is little research supporting the health claims. Some studies have shown that adaptogens in mushrooms can affect how much cortisol, a stress hormone, is released in the body, which may help reduce the effects of stress.
Mushroom coffee is generally safe to consume, but there are some potential risks to be aware of. If you have a mushroom allergy, drinking mushroom coffee may trigger an allergic reaction. It may also interfere with how medications work in your body, especially if you are taking immunosuppressant drugs or blood thinners. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it is recommended to avoid mushroom coffee. Additionally, people with digestive issues or kidney problems may be more vulnerable to negative side effects.
