Many health-conscious consumers are ditching their regular cup of joe in favor of mushroom coffee. Made with functional mushrooms (chaga, cordyceps, reishi and lion’s mane), these products promise to help reduce stress, ramp up energy levels and improve sleep quality. But is it really worth the hype?
A quick look at the science says maybe not. It’s important to note that no studies have been conducted on the combination of these mushrooms with coffee beans, and it’s also not clear that the drying, extraction and brewing process leaves any of the beneficial compounds intact. Plus, you can get the same benefits of chaga, reishi and cordyceps from supplements without the added caffeine.
Mushroom Coffee at Whole Foods: A Shopping Guide
In addition, the mushrooms in mushroom coffee whole foods aren’t likely to offer the same workout boost that has been linked to increased endurance and performance — particularly at the doses used in these products. A 2014 study found that high doses of cordyceps can boost oxygen capacity and power output during endurance exercise, but the amount of fungi in a cup of coffee is unlikely to produce similar effects.
There’s also some evidence that the mushrooms used in these brews can be hard on the digestive system, especially for people with kidney issues or trouble digesting grains. Certain varieties, notably chaga, can raise the risk of developing kidney stones by adding to your overall intake of oxalates. Before making the jump, talk to your doctor or a registered dietitian about the pros and cons of mushroom coffee. And if you do decide to give it a try, consider buying it from a brand that has been verified by a reputable health-focused organization, like the nonprofit Consumer Reports.