The idea of combining coffee with various ingredients is not a recent development. One can incorporate coconut milk, coconut oil, butter, or lemon into their morning coffee. However, it is advisable not to blend these ingredients together. An intriguing alternative is the use of medicinal mushrooms, which, when added to coffee, may provide several advantages. This beverage, referred to as mushroom coffee, has gained popularity and is believed to assist in weight loss, enhance energy levels, and encourage relaxation. It is important to note that this does not involve actual mushrooms floating in the coffee; rather, common medicinal mushrooms are utilized in powdered form to create this drink.

What is mushroom coffee?

Mushroom coffee consists of a blend of ground coffee beans and powdered medicinal mushrooms, according to dietician Dr. Archana Batra. Therefore, one will not encounter common culinary mushrooms like button or shiitake in their coffee. Instead, mushroom coffee incorporates medicinal varieties such as:

• Chaga
• Reishi
• Lion’s mane
• Cordyceps

"It tastes like regular coffee but has a slight earthy flavour due to the presence of mushroom extracts," says the expert.

Mushroom coffee is a viral drink. Image courtesy: Adobe Stock

What are the benefits of drinking mushroom coffee?

While there is not much research available on the health benefits of mushroom coffee there is evidence that shows the ingredients used in this beverage may be beneficial.

1. May reduce anxiety

Mushrooms like reishi are known to aid in relaxation and alleviate anxiety, according to the expert. A 2023 study published in Psychiatry Research indicated that consuming two to three cups of ground or unsweetened coffee daily was linked to a decreased risk of anxiety. Furthermore, a 2024 investigation published in Integrative Medicine Research demonstrated that the use of reishi powder notably diminished both fatigue and anxiety.

2. May improve energy levels

Dr. Batra states that the presence of cordyceps in your mushroom coffee could potentially enhance the body's oxygen utilization and elevate energy levels. A study conducted in 2021 and published in Frontiers identified cordyceps as a beneficial treatment for fatigue and weakness, demonstrating its ability to provide an energy boost to participants. Additionally, it is well-established that coffee contains caffeine, a central nervous system stimulant known to alleviate fatigue and enhance energy levels, according to research published in StatPearls in 2024.

3. May have anti-inflammatory benefits

Medicinal mushrooms possess anti-inflammatory characteristics that contribute to overall wellness. Among these, Chaga has been identified as having such properties, as indicated by research published in the journal Molecules in 2022. An expert notes that "chronic inflammation is associated with various health issues, including heart disease and arthritis, and consuming mushroom coffee may help mitigate these risks."

4. May boost cognitive function

Mushrooms such as lion's mane have the potential to enhance cognitive abilities. A 2024 study published in Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews indicated that lion's mane contributed to improvements in mood and cognitive function among middle-aged individuals and seniors. Additionally, research published in Practical Neurology in 2016 suggests that coffee consumption may aid in the prevention of cognitive decline.

5. May support immunity

Mushrooms such as chaga and reishi are rich in beta-glucans, a type of soluble fiber recognized for its ability to enhance the immune system. According to the expert, "Beta-glucans stimulate the activity of white blood cells in the body, contributing to overall health by combating infections."

6. May help with weight loss

Mushroom coffee, particularly that which contains reishi, may assist in weight loss efforts. A study conducted in 2023 and published in Physiology & Behavior indicated that reishi extract has the potential to facilitate weight reduction. Additionally, research published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition in 2023 found that consuming one cup of coffee daily was linked to a reduction of 0.12 kg in body weight over a four-year period.

7. May improve sleep quality

According to the expert, this particular coffee contains a lower caffeine content compared to standard coffee. It is prepared using an equal mixture of coffee and mushroom powder, resulting in a reduced caffeine level relative to that of regular coffee. Consuming a beverage with diminished caffeine, particularly in the evening, may contribute to improved sleep quality.

This type of coffee may help with weight loss! Image Courtesy: Adobe Stock

How to make mushroom coffee?

This coffee blend is prepared using the same method as regular black coffee or one with milk.

• Boil water and pour it into a cup.
• Add some ground coffee and mushroom powder (1-to-1 ratio) then mix well.
• If you are not fond of the earthy flavour, you can add a little bit of milk to your morning coffee.

What are the side effects of having mushroom coffee?

• Sleep disruption: This type of coffee has less caffeine content. Still, if you consume mushroom coffee in the evening, the caffeine can affect your sleep schedule.
• Allergic reactions: You may be allergic to mushrooms, so you may experience itching, and swelling of the lips.
• May lead to bleeding: Mushrooms like reishi can increase the risk of bleeding, especially when taken with blood thinners.

Mushroom coffee presents an intriguing alternative to traditional coffee for those interested in exploring new options. Nevertheless, further research is required to fully understand the health benefits associated with this beverage. If you have any pre-existing medical conditions, it is advisable to seek guidance from your healthcare provider prior to incorporating this drink into your diet.

Read Also: "Transforming Body Fat: How Brown Fat Enhances Caloric Expenditure"

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