Mushrooms are prized for adding umami flavor and are packed with vitamins and minerals, yet few people know how they can reap those benefits through a hot beverage – that’s the idea behind mushroom coffee, a drink which has recently made waves in health circles. Proponents claim its adaptogenic mushrooms and immune-boosting extracts will help improve sleep, stress relief, focus improvement, reduced inflammation and overall well-being – but does it actually work and what does science have to say about its efficacy?

Mushroom coffee doesn’t actually include chunks of mushrooms; rather, it’s made from a combination of regular coffee and medicinal mushroom extracts such as Reishi, Turkey Tail, Chaga or Cordyceps that has been dried out before being extracted of its beneficial compounds for inclusion. These extracts are then combined with ground coffee beans before being brewed just like normal coffee.

Mushroom coffee is an alternative beverage similar to normal coffee but with an earthier, nuttier taste. While some may appreciate its distinct character, others may find its unique taste off-putting or disagreeable. Mushroom coffee typically has about half the caffeine found in regular coffee so is unlikely to cause side effects like jitters or stomach upset due to an excess amount of caffeine intake.

While many claims surrounding mushroom coffee are supported by preclinical research, more human studies are required to validate its benefits. That being said, some ingredients found within mushroom coffee brews have long been used as medicine in traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic practices and some mushrooms used such as Reishi and Turkey Tail have been linked with improving mental performance as well as decreasing cancer risks.

Chaga mushrooms have been shown to possess antioxidant properties that reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, while reishi is thought to improve immune function while suppressing mast cell activation, the source of allergies.

However, regardless of some of these mushrooms’ potential health benefits, no single method exists for weight loss. A diet full of nutritious whole food and regular physical activity remains the best way to promote overall wellness in one’s body. Mushroom coffee may boost metabolism, but that doesn’t always translate to significant weight loss if consumed excessively. Mushroom coffee may cause digestive issues in those with existing GI conditions or who have sensitivities to certain mushrooms, so it’s essential that those hoping to lose weight using this beverage consult their physician beforehand and get advice from them on whether it would fit their diet plan, as well as safe alternatives if looking to boost energy without caffeine crash.