Mushroom coffee might sound unappetizing. But this trendy drink isn’t as odd as it sounds. It actually tastes pretty similar to regular coffee.
Some say this unusual beverage has many health benefits. But what does the science say?
What Is Mushroom Coffee?
Mushroom coffee is coffee with added mushroom extract, so you won’t have mushroom pieces floating in your cup of joe. It tastes similar to normal coffee but has a slightly nuttier or earthier flavor.
How is mushroom coffee made?
People make this drink by drying mushrooms, extracting their beneficial ingredients, and adding those to regular coffee.
The most popular types of mushrooms used for this are:
- Reishi
- Chaga
- Lion’s mane
- Cordyceps
- King trumpet
- Turkey tail
Asian countries have been using herbs and mushrooms as a wellness therapy for centuries. Experts call these wellness tools “adaptogens.” They’re thought to help us adapt and survive in tense situations.
Those who love mushroom coffee will tell you that it can help your body in several ways. However, many of those claims haven't been proven yet.
Mushroom Coffee Benefits
The presence of mushrooms does add potential health benefits to this interesting beverage.
It can support your immune system. Mushrooms have beneficial compounds, such as:
These have major antioxidant properties. So, experts believe that mushroom coffee can provide antioxidants that support your immune system.
There's less caffeine. Mushroom coffee itself can't help you get better sleep , as some suggest. But taking in less caffeine does help some people get a better night’s rest. If you tend to be sensitive to caffeine, mushroom coffee might be a good choice for you.
It could help ease stress. Cortisol is a stress hormone that affects our bodies in many situations. People with things such as depression, hypoglycemia, fever, trauma, and pain tend to have higher amounts of cortisol. Studies show that adaptogens, such as the mushrooms in mushroom coffee, level out the amount of cortisol in your blood and saliva. So, this drink could potentially help you manage stress.
It may ease inflammation. Mushrooms have plenty of anti-inflammatory substances. But it’s unclear if these also exist in mushroom extracts like in mushroom coffee.
Mushroom coffee for weight loss
Some people think mushroom coffee can speed up your metabolism and help you burn more fat. But there’s not a lot of research to back this claim up.
Mushroom Coffee Side Effects
Mushrooms can cause digestive problems in some people, especially those with kidney conditions or sensitivity to grain. Plus, mushrooms have a lot of oxalates, which can lead to kidney stones. Talk with your doctor before changing your diet.
Should You Switch to Mushroom Coffee?
While this unusual drink might provide some health value, it's important to remember that mushroom coffee contains only mushroom extract. And experts believe that enjoying the whole mushroom is the best way to get its benefits.
So, you might be better off adding whole mushrooms to your diet instead.
Where to Find Mushroom Coffee
You can order mushroom coffee online, but some health food stores might have it. It comes in many different forms, including:
- Mushroom coffee grounds
- Premade lattes
- Instant packets
- Pods
It costs about twice as much as regular coffee.
Mushroom Coffee Alternatives
Mushrooms contain many powerful antioxidants and nutrients. But it’s unclear whether the extract used in mushroom coffee has the same benefits. To get the most bang for your buck, consider skipping the coffee and eating more mushrooms.
Takeaways
Mushroom coffee is regular coffee that contains mushroom extract. Some people claim that mushroom coffee has several health benefits, but there’s no research to support this. Although this drink is probably safe for most people, you can get more antioxidants and other nutrients by eating mushrooms.
Mushroom Coffee Benefits FAQs
What does mushroom coffee taste like?
It tastes similar to regular coffee. Some people think it has a nutty or earthy flavor.
Does mushroom coffee help you lose weight?
Some people think so, but there’s not a lot of research to back this up.
Who should not drink mushroom coffee?
You should avoid mushroom coffee if you have kidney problems, sensitivity to grains, or a high risk for kidney stones.
Is mushroom coffee safe to drink?
Unless you have stomach or kidney problems, mushroom coffee is probably safe to drink. But it's a good idea to talk with your doctor before trying it.
