Adaptogens have made a comeback, and mushroom powders, extracts, tonics and gummies have become trendy wellness offerings. One such adaptogen trend is mushroom coffee: an imitation cup of coffee made up of various mushroom extracts and ingredients mixed into it – either as an independent drink or mixed in your usual coffee brew; most options claim lower caffeine than traditional coffee options. Although mushroom coffee might help those trying to wean off caffeine or have kidney or digestive issues get some relief without increasing caffeine consumption; there has been little research supporting its purported health benefits — especially weight reduction benefits – claims.

To select the ideal mushroom coffee for yourself, first determine your objective; whether that be replacing your daily cup of joe with something energy-boosting like mushroom coffee or simply supplementing it. Next, determine your method for preparation – some mushroom coffee varieties contain ground coffee beans while others come as instant or pod-based options for easy brewing, while some options blend coffee, cocoa and tea into unique formulas made especially to mix into other beverages.

As well, it’s important to consider whether or not the purported health benefits offered by different mushroom extracts used in these products. Some, like reishi, cordyceps and lion’s mane mushrooms, may help boost cognitive performance and energy levels while chaga mushrooms contain high concentrations of antioxidants which are known to fight inflammation and regulate blood sugar.

These blends may also include ingredients like guarana, which has been said to increase energy levels while curbing hunger, as well as probiotics which aid digestion and build immunity – two key components if you suffer from irritable bowel syndrome or other stomach ailments. Look for products which provide details of both their type of probiotic as well as its strain.

As for their potential impact on weight loss, some studies indicate that reishi mushrooms can support metabolic activity and accelerate fat burn, though more research needs to be conducted in this area. In terms of caffeine’s impact on metabolism, people do eventually become tolerant over time, with its side effects such as jitteriness or insomnia leading to additional stress and overeating in the long run.

To help narrow down the options, we enlisted four registered dietitians as consultants on mushroom coffees. Their picks included blends with reishi and chaga; turkey tail-based options with Korean black tea and guarana; as well as ReNude’s Chaga Only Mix – each available both ground and instant versions, giving you plenty of ways to customize it according to taste – milk creamer sugar or sweeteners are optional! Plus all mushroom coffees offer significantly lower caffeine than your average cup!