Mushroom coffee has become increasingly popular over the past few years. But what is it exactly? Mushroom coffee is a combination of mushroom and coffee grounds, and it is claimed to work miracles on common health ailments including inflammation and illness, brain fog, cognitive decline, poor sleep, and low energy. In this blog post, we’ll review the health claims associated with mushroom coffee, the benefits as well as possible risks associated with drinking it, and some ways to maximize your nutritional intake without it.
Mushrooms are a nutrient-dense food. They are a good source of vitamin D, zinc, selenium, copper, thiamin, magnesium and phosphorus. All of these micronutrients play vital roles in our body’s metabolism and immune function. Mushrooms also contain adaptogens which are compounds that have been shown to improve the body’s stress response. Combined with coffee, we create a nutritional “power-house” as coffee itself is associated with a reduced risk of Parkinson’s disease, type 2 diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease, and progression of dementia. So, is mushroom coffee a must-have in our diet to maintain optimal health? Well, not necessarily. Very few studies have been conducted to show the impact mushroom coffee has on our health, and some of the claims made about mushroom coffee aren’t actually backed by research. It is also important to know that certain species of mushroom can interact with medications. For example, Lion’s mane mushrooms should be avoided for individuals with diabetes, bleeding conditions, and planned surgeries due to their possible effects on blood clotting.
If you are interested in consuming mushroom coffee, here are a few tips from your fellow RDs: First, speak with your doctor and check for any food interactions that might exist for the medications you take. Second, it is important to realize that mushroom coffee isn’t a “miracle drink” that will rid all of your health problems, and if you are experiencing symptoms that warrant medical attention, it is best to always discuss these matters with your doctor. Lastly, know that you don’t need to consume mushroom coffee specifically to achieve all of these health claims. You can drink coffee and consume mushrooms (fresh, canned, or frozen) separately and still achieve health benefits they individually provide.
Until Next Time,
Emily, MS, RDN, CDN