Mushroom coffee, made by mixing coffee beans with adaptogenic mushrooms such as chaga, lion’s mane and turkey tail mushrooms, is a popular beverage that may help boost energy while improving focus and clarity. Mushroom pods for single-serve brewers may offer this beverage, or you can mix mushroom powder into traditional ground coffee beans at home to make it yourself.

Mushrooms are packed with nutrients, offering many health benefits ranging from cancer fighting to stress relief. Medicinal mushrooms contain water-soluble molecules known as beta-d glucans which have been believed to strengthen immunity while aiding with managing oxidative stress in your body.

To create mushroom coffee, equal parts of mushrooms and ground coffee are combined, ground into a fine powder and then brewed just like regular coffee. Many brands of mushroom coffee also add flavors such as chocolate or vanilla to mask any earthiness of medicinal mushrooms that might otherwise come through when combined.

Addition of mushrooms to traditional coffee can reduce its caffeine content and even make it completely caffeine free, though some companies offer these versions of their product. But Volpe warns that anyone suffering from IBS or known mushroom intolerance should stay clear from such products, since mushrooms still contain FODMAPs that could trigger symptoms in those with IBS.

Important to keep in mind is the lack of scientific support for mushroom coffee’s purported health benefits. Though certain mushrooms used have shown positive results in studies, we still don’t know whether or not their benefits remain when dried and combined with coffee beans,” according to LaBonde.

Mushroom coffee may offer more than less caffeine; it may also be beneficial for those with sensitive digestive systems. While traditional coffee contains acidity that can upset stomachs, mushroom coffee tends to have low acidity levels with smooth flavors such as dark chocolate or nuts for a great tasting beverage option.

A coffee brew can be enjoyed over ice or served with milk for a refreshing and indulgent beverage experience. Many brands also sell versions that can be mixed into tea and other drinks to elevate their flavors further.

Before beginning anything new, it’s always advisable to consult your physician, particularly if you have medical conditions or medications you are taking. Although medicinal mushrooms tend to be safe when taken as directed by their labeled instructions, certain interactions may exist. If you suffer from sensitive stomachs or allergies it may be wiser to start slowly increasing dosage as your body adjusts. Often it takes six weeks before noticeable effects occur from drinking mushroom coffee regularly!