Many companies are now offering mushroom coffee as an alternative to your daily cup of joe, promising all the same benefits minus any caffeine crashes. Nutrient-dense fungi may improve cognitive function and immune system health while providing energy without spikes and dips from caffeine use. One such product, called RYZE, boasts of its “mungerism” blend of six mushrooms containing only half the caffeine found in typical coffee beverages – so we put its claims through rigorous scrutiny to see if its promises could come through! We put Ryze through rigorous evaluation to see whether its promises could meet them.

The company website does not disclose all of the ingredients found in their blend, though a variety of potential effects is listed: brain health, immune function, stress relief, digestion and weight management are just a few examples. They also contain “adaptogens”, substances that help the body cope with physical and emotional stressors by decreasing fatigue levels while increasing energy levels for overall wellness enhancement.

Cordyceps, Lion’s Mane Reishi and Turkey Tail mushrooms are among the most effective in RYZE’s mushroom selection for supporting endurance training and fighting fatigue by increasing production of ATP (Adenosine Triphosphate), an energy molecule necessary for fuelling your muscles. Shiitake mushrooms also offer anti-ageing and diabetes treatment properties.

Although some mushrooms found in Ryze may provide health benefits, the research available on them is limited and often performed using animal or test tube models – providing lower quality data than desired. Furthermore, it remains unknown how dried powdered mushrooms will impact our health since it remains unknown whether their medicinal properties remain preserved during processing and brewing processes.

Although RYZE mushroom coffee contains less caffeine than your average cup of joe, it should still not be considered an ideal replacement. Just the caffeine alone could cause jitters or headaches in some individuals; before trying any new supplement or medication it’s wise to consult your physician first; although their FAQ page indicates it should be safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding it would always be prudent to get their advice before doing so.