Mushroom Coffee has quickly become the latest health trend. This beverage consists of ground coffee beans mixed with dried, extracted and processed medicinal mushrooms that have been dried, extracted, processed and consumed together as an extract or beverage. Proponents claim it reduces stress, strengthens immune systems and increases sleep. While many of these claims have yet to be proven in scientific research with human participants. In addition, certain components (chaga mushrooms for instance) of mushroom coffee may contain high oxalates levels which could result in kidney stones if consumed excessively.

Mushroom coffee may contain less caffeine than traditional brews, yet still provides some stimulating properties. According to Four Sigmatic, mushroom coffee contains anywhere between 50 mg and 200 mg per packet or serving, approximately half the amount found in an 8-ounce cup of regular coffee. These reduced levels make mushroom coffee an attractive alternative for those trying to reduce caffeine consumption or have sensitivities to its stimulating compounds.

Mushroom coffee blends provide many health benefits due to polysaccharides found within them that may aid digestion and immune function, while often providing vitamin D, B vitamins, potassium choline and antioxidants as well. Mushrooms used in this type of blend may even act as adaptogens, helping manage stress more effectively while encouraging relaxation and promote overall well-being.

Medicinal mushrooms are well known to possess anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties that may assist with digestion while providing protection from certain cancers. Furthermore, medicinal mushrooms contain cordycepin – an ingredient which has been discovered to inhibit tumor growth – making these mushrooms an invaluable asset in cancer prevention and protection.

Unfortunately, one drawback to the new trend of mushroom coffee blends is that not everyone’s digestive tract can tolerate them. Some mushrooms used in coffee blends have also been classified as high FODMAP foods that may aggravate symptoms for those suffering from IBS or other digestive conditions.

At first glance, mushroom coffee’s surging popularity may seem intriguing; however, it should be remembered that most of its purported health benefits have yet to be demonstrated through clinical studies conducted with humans and it remains uncertain if its constituent mushrooms retain any therapeutic benefits after being dried, extracted and brewed.

Before embarking on a mushroom coffee diet, it’s wise to consult your physician first. He or she can help determine if the beverage suits you as well as provide guidance regarding the appropriate daily consumption amounts of each ingredient.

Though you are unlikely to experience any side effects from drinking mushroom coffee, it’s still wise to monitor how much caffeine you are consuming, particularly if you have medical or health conditions. Achieve a balanced intake of caffeine and nutrients requires finding your own personal balance – for help find one talk to a registered dietitian nutritionist about creating a diet tailored specifically to you and ensure any new supplements or foods introduced are safe for you and/or any potential risk.