Mushroom Coffee vs. Regular Coffee: The Brew Battle You Didn't Know You Needed

Let’s face it: the coffee aisle is a jungle. You’ve got your dark roasts, light roasts, decafs, nitros, and now—mushroom coffee? Yes, you read that right. The latest trend in the caffeinated world is mushroom coffee, a blend of regular coffee beans and medicinal mushrooms like Lion’s Mane, Reishi, and Chaga. But is it just another wellness fad, or does it have real benefits? Let's dive in.

The Case for Mushroom Coffee

1. Lower Caffeine, Fewer Jitters

Regular coffee can give you that morning jolt, but it often comes with a side of anxiety and a crash later. Mushroom coffee typically contains about half the caffeine of regular coffee. For instance, a cup of brewed coffee has around 96 mg of caffeine, while Ryze mushroom coffee has about 48 mg per cup . This means you can enjoy a gentler energy boost without the jitters.

2. Potential Health Benefits

Medicinal mushrooms have been used in traditional medicine for centuries. A review published in the journal Molecules notes that these mushrooms may help prevent cancer, manage diabetes, regulate the immune system, fight obesity, and slow aging . While most studies are based on animals or lab tests, the potential is promising.

3. Better Sleep and Less Anxiety

With less caffeine, mushroom coffee might help you sleep better and feel less anxious. A two-month experiment found that mushroom coffee provided a more sustained energy boost with fewer jitters compared to regular coffee . So, if you're sensitive to caffeine, this could be a game-changer.

The Case Against Mushroom Coffee

1. Limited Human Research

While animal and lab studies show potential benefits, there’s a lack of well-designed clinical trials on humans. Harvard Health points out that none of the research was conducted on mushroom coffee itself, so there's no guarantee that any health benefits will be retained after the mushrooms are processed and blended into coffee drinks .

2. Digestive Concerns

Some mushroom extracts can be hard on digestion. People with kidney issues or digestive troubles might be more vulnerable to these effects. Additionally, certain types of mushrooms used in mushroom coffee, like Chaga, contain high levels of compounds called oxalates, which can increase the risk of kidney stones .

The Bottom Line

So, should you make the switch? If you're looking for a smoother, less jittery caffeine experience and are intrigued by the potential health benefits, mushroom coffee might be worth a try. But if you're a die-hard coffee lover who thrives on that strong caffeine kick, regular coffee isn't going anywhere.

Remember, whether you choose mushroom coffee or the classic brew, moderation is key. As with any trend, it's important to do your own research and consult with a healthcare professional if you have concerns.

In the end, the best coffee is the one that makes you feel good. So, whether it's a traditional cup of joe or a mushroom-infused brew, sip wisely and enjoy your caffeine fix.

Blogger: Will La. (@superwilln)

This blog is researched, but made for entertainment purposes. No researchers, writers, or reporters were harmed in creating this blog.