Mushroom coffee has quickly become an increasingly popular way to start your day, with numerous purveyors making claims about its many health benefits. While much of this information has yet to be scientifically evaluated, mushrooms could help relieve stress and anxiety, improve cognition, support sleep quality and immune health and more – as most mushroom coffee varieties contain significantly less caffeine than traditional coffee varieties, they could even make an ideal option for people sensitive to caffeine.

Mushrooms have long been studied for their therapeutic qualities, with certain varieties such as lion’s mane, cordyceps, turkey tail, chaga and reishi being particularly noted for having adaptogenic qualities that can reduce stress and boost mood. Mushroom coffee often includes other antioxidant and anti-inflammatory ingredients like sage, turmeric and cinnamon which combine together to give it more of an authentic coffee-like flavor profile; certain brands even add other flavors for further flavor enhancement.

Mushroom coffees usually consist of coffee beans, extracts and herbs–though their exact makeup can differ significantly. Look for products with organic and fair trade coffee beans as well as third party testing of mushroom powders to ensure safety. And be wary of mushroom coffee that contains added sweeteners or artificial flavors as these could have negative impacts on your health.

Though mushroom coffee beans are typically grown organically, they may still be exposed to contamination from pesticides or harmful chemicals used during production. For optimal results, opt for mushroom coffee that has been certified USDA organic and fair trade by both agencies as this will guarantee it was grown sustainably and free from harmful chemicals such as pesticides or herbicides. Furthermore, look out for third-party certifications on the package showing they have been tested by an accredited third party.

Keep this in mind when considering mushroom coffee: it should not replace traditional coffee; rather it is meant as an addition to a healthy lifestyle and diet. If caffeine consumption is an issue for you, opt for decaf mushroom coffee which still provides enough energy in the morning. Furthermore, certain mushrooms used in mushroom coffee, particularly chaga and reishi types may increase kidney stone risk by binding calcium crystals together when you urinate and creating kidney stone crystals that form kidney stones when urinated upon.

As a final point, keep in mind that most mushroom coffees contain caffeine–around half as much as traditional coffee. If caffeine sensitivity is an issue for you, opt for one without caffeine altogether or decaf mushroom coffees instead. Also keep in mind that certain mushroom powders used in mushroom coffee could interact with certain medications and cause side effects; always consult your physician prior to beginning any supplements.