Mushroom coffee, an increasingly popular wellness trend that has quickly taken over the Internet, is more than just another cup of joe; it is actually an infusion of coffee-based beverages containing medicinal mushrooms to offer health benefits such as weight loss, increased immunity and reduced inflammation.

Medicinal mushrooms differ significantly from their everyday button or portobellini varieties found at grocery stores; rather, they’re adaptogenic fungi used traditionally to help the body cope with stress and manage mood swings, boost immunity levels and increase energy levels. “Mushroom coffee uses popular medicinal fungi such as Chaga and Reishi that contain beta-glucans to activate white blood cells within your immune system,” according to Thara Vayali of Hey Freya Women’s Wellness Brand.

Mushroom coffee contains functional mushrooms with multiple benefits beyond simply strengthening immunity, including improving sleep and energy levels. Reishi and chaga mushrooms in particular have been shown to promote restful slumber while decreasing blood pressure and increasing energy levels respectively. ‘These mushrooms are packed with antioxidants that support your body’s natural ability to break down fat,” Vayali notes.

Some experts believe mushroom coffee may even help in the fight against weight gain, with its ability to relieve stress and curb cravings as well as its lower caffeine content being beneficial to those suffering from digestive problems caused by high-caffeine beverages.

Reishi is well known for its relaxing properties, helping reduce cortisol release to ease depression, hypoglycemia, anxiety, insomnia and cravings – not to mention cortisol’s relationship to stress eating and weight gain.

As a means to improve gut health, Turkey Tail mushroom extract has been shown to act as a prebiotic, feeding good bacteria in the digestive tract and supporting healthy functioning – this may result in decreased bloating and increased nutrient absorption that are essential elements for weight loss.

Human studies still need to be conducted in order to better understand how functional mushrooms work, their optimal dosage and any possible side effects. Furthermore, certain varieties have been known to interact with medications like blood thinners so it’s wise to consult your physician prior to adding mushroom coffee into your daily routine.

Although wellness enthusiasts may be drawn to this trend, it’s important to keep in mind that there’s no magic formula when it comes to healthy living. A combination of nutritious whole foods, regular exercise and leading an active lifestyle are best ways to see lasting results. When selecting your morning cup of joe, stick with its original version–brewed black coffee mixed with either milk or coconut cream for optimal enjoyment! Enjoy sipping!