One of the latest trends in the wellness space is mushroom coffee, which involves blending traditional coffee with mushroom extracts. The Mushroom Coffee Market was valued at 2.6 billion USD in 2022 and is expected to be worth 4.3 billion USD by 2032.
This combination has gained popularity as it is associated with potential benefits like improved concentration, immune support, stress management, and reduced inflammation. Combining mushrooms with coffee typically results in a lower caffeine content than traditional coffee alone and is rich in antioxidants.
Evaluating health claims with scientific evidence is essential to ensuring consumers receive accurate information to make informed decisions. This article will explore these health claims and the scientific evidence of mushroom coffee.
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What is Mushroom Coffee?
In mushroom coffee, mushroom extracts are ground into regular coffee grounds. Types of mushrooms used include lion's mane, reishi, cordyceps, and chaga. Each is associated with different potential health benefits.
After harvesting, mushrooms are dried to preserve their nutrients and undergo an extraction process that involves drawing out compounds such as polysaccharides, beta-glucans, and triterpenoids, which will be discussed in further detail later in this article.
After extraction, the mushrooms are dried and ground into a fine powder. The mushroom extract powder is then blended with ground coffee. Mushroom coffee may be brewed using various methods, such as coffee makers, French presses, or espresso machines.
You can make mushroom coffee at home by blending 1 cup of brewed coffee with 1 teaspoon of mushroom powder extract. Depending on personal preferences, milk or sweeteners may be added.
Potential Benefits of Mushroom Coffee
Potential benefits of medicinal mushrooms include:
- Support for immune system function.
- Anti-inflammatory properties.
- Increased energy and stamina.
- Support for healthy aging.
- Improved well-being.
- Support for cognitive function.
Like other coffee alternatives, mushroom coffee has its pros and cons. Along with the potential benefits listed previously, the cons of mushroom coffee include a higher price tag than traditional coffee, and the distinguished taste may not be everyone's preference.
Other alternatives include golden milk, matcha, chicory coffee, dandelion coffee, and yerba mate.
The potential benefits associated with mushroom coffee make it appealing to customers interested in naturally supporting their health and wellness.
Scientific Evidence on Mushroom Coffee
Mushroom coffee has garnered attention for its potential health benefits, particularly in the areas of cognitive function, stress management, and immune system support. Below is an overview of the scientific evidence behind these claims.
Cognitive Function and Brain Health
One of the most common claims about mushroom coffee is its potential cognitive benefits. Certain medicinal mushrooms, such as lion's mane (Hericium erinaceus), are known for their potential cognitive-enhancing properties.
Lion's mane contains compounds that may support brain health and promote neural health. One study showed that the oral intake of Hericium erinaceusis can support cognitive function and is considered safe and convenient for cognitive health.
Lion's mane may stimulate the production of nerve growth factor. This protein can increase the length of nerve cell processes, potentially supporting cognitive functions such as focus, memory, and concentration.
A study conducted on Japanese men and women aged 50-80 with mild cognitive impairment found participants who consumed lion's mane for 16 weeks showed improvements in cognitive function. The benefits diminished after the intake stopped, indicating the need for continuous consumption for sustained benefits.
Another study on post-menopausal women assessed the effects of lion's mane on anxiety and depression, finding a reduction in symptoms.
Stress Management and Adaptogenic Properties
Medicinal mushrooms are known to be rich in antioxidants. Antioxidants help manage stress, which can impact cognitive health. Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum) is commonly known for its adaptogenic properties. These can indirectly support cognitive function by helping to manage anxiety and improving focus. Reishi is also used in modern wellness practices for its antioxidant properties.
Research on reishi mushrooms has explored various potential health benefits. However, more clinical studies are needed to firmly establish the effects. Many studies have been performed in animals or in vitro (outside living organisms); thus, high-quality clinical trials in humans are needed to substantiate these effects.
Cordyceps is associated with increased energy and stamina. This review explains how cordyceps may support mitochondrial ATP production, which is the source of energy and storage on the cellular level. Improved physical health can lead to improved mental clarity.
Cordyceps has also been found to have mood-supporting effects. In Asia, Cordyceps militaris has been traditionally used in supporting neurological health, including managing anxiety and epilepsy.
Immune System Support
Mushrooms act as prebiotics, supporting the growth of gut microbiota and acting as immunomodulatory agents. Prebiotics have been associated with supporting health in various conditions. With 70% of immune cells in the gut, understanding the gut-brain connection and addressing gut health is essential in whole-body wellness.
Short-term use of natural immunomodulating agents from shiitake and maitake mushrooms may support immune defense reactions.
Emerging evidence shows that mushrooms may support bone marrow activity, as seen in patients undergoing certain treatments. Further studies on the dosing of specific mushroom preparations in integrative wellness are needed.
Nutritional Profile and Bioactive Compounds
The nutritional content of mushrooms used in mushroom coffee can vary depending on the type of mushroom used.
- Reishi Mushroom: High in fiber and protein, some minerals such as calcium, potassium, and phosphorus. Known for its potential immune-supporting benefits.
- Lion's Mane Mushroom: High in fiber, carbohydrates, and some protein. Known for its potential cognitive-supporting benefits.
- Chaga Mushroom: High in fiber, carbohydrates, and small amounts of minerals. Known for its potential antioxidant properties and immune support.
- Cordyceps Mushroom: Protein, carbohydrates, and small amounts of vitamins and minerals. Known for its potential energy-supporting and physical performance-enhancing properties.
Bioactive Compounds
The benefits of mushrooms are attributed to the bioactive compounds, including polysaccharides, triterpenoids, and antioxidants.
Polysaccharides, or complex sugars, are the main active ingredients in mushrooms. They are carbohydrate molecules composed of long chains of smaller monosaccharides, or simple sugars, linked by glycosidic bonds. They may be used in combination with medicinal drugs to help support health at a low cost.
Mushrooms have alpha- and beta-glucans, a type of polysaccharide known for their metabolic and immune-supporting effects. Beta-glucans can help activate the immune system and inflammatory processes.
This systematic review shows that beta-glucans may support the immune defense system in respiratory health and improve allergy symptoms. Improvements in mood states and well-being were also found, along with potential added benefits with incorporation into wellness practices.
Another one of the most bioactive compounds in mushrooms is triterpenoids. Triterpenoids are not water-soluble and must be extracted from mushrooms through alcohol extraction, which is more time-consuming. Triterpenoids have been found to support healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels, protect the liver, and have anti-allergic effects.
One hundred sixty-six triterpenes have been discovered and analyzed for their potential health-supporting properties.
Safety and Side Effects
The safety profiles of common mushrooms in mushroom coffee include the quality of mushrooms and processing methods used, as well as if any additional ingredients are added.
It is essential to ensure that the mushrooms used are sourced from reputable suppliers. Mushrooms are considered safe for most people; however, it is a good idea to start with small amounts, as some people may experience gastrointestinal discomfort or an allergic reaction.
Due to their potential antiplatelet effects, mushrooms may interact with certain medications, such as blood thinners. Thus, it is best to consult with a healthcare provider.
Consumer Considerations
The benefits of mushroom coffee may vary from person to person. Individual health, mushroom type, and overall diet and lifestyle can influence outcomes.
The medicinal properties of mushrooms will vary depending on the type, the geographical area, growing conditions, the part of the mushroom used, and the stage at the processing time.
Supplement quality and concentrations can vary. It's vital to choose high-quality products from reputable brands. Overall, products from reputable brands that follow good manufacturing practices (GMP) will likely be safer.
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Key Takeaways
- In recent years, research into medicinal mushrooms has progressed; however, much more is needed.
- While evidence suggests the potential health benefits of certain medicinal mushrooms in mushroom coffee, such as lion's mane, and supporting cognitive function, more research is required to fully understand their effects and establish clear recommendations.
- Evidence-based approaches are crucial in dietary trends because they prioritize safety and efficacy and provide reliable guidance for people to make informed choices about their health.
- Consumers interested in mushroom coffee's potential cognitive benefits may find including it in their diet helpful.
- However, individuals should remain realistic with their expectations and consider a broader and more integrative approach to overall health, including regular exercise, a balanced diet, and good-quality sleep.
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