Medicinal mushrooms contain bioactive compounds like beta-glucan that have been shown to boost immunity and encourage lactation among breastfeeding mothers. While studies on whole mushrooms have found benefits such as lower blood pressure in pregnant and breastfeeding moms, not enough research has been conducted on mushroom extracts’ safety during pregnancy and breastfeeding; so before including medicinal mushrooms into your routine it’s wise to consult your healthcare provider first.

Most pregnant women understand the nutritional benefits of whole foods to support a healthy pregnancy. Mushrooms are particularly rich in essential elements such as antioxidants, fiber, vitamin D, choline and polyphenols – well-known compounds known for their anti-inflammatory properties that may help relieve stress, lower blood pressure, improve digestion and promote gut health.

Certain mushrooms are well known for their immune-enhancing effects as well as their soothing and mood-stabilizing qualities. Reishi mushrooms, for instance, have long been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine to promote feelings of tranquillity and relaxation while studies suggest it could increase milk production in breastfeeding mothers by stimulating prolactin release.

Chaga mushroom, commonly found in mushroom coffee blends and popular among its consumers for its antioxidant and liver-supportive benefits, may also improve sleep quality and fight inflammation. Studies on its use during pregnancy remain limited due to overstimulated immune systems that could potentially result in premature infants or other complications.

Also commonly included in these drinks are mushrooms such as lion’s mane, turkey tail and cordyceps. While studies may demonstrate their benefits during pregnancy, most are conducted on non-pregnant adults in laboratories; therefore their safety during gestation remains uncertain. Furthermore, certain strains of these mushrooms could potentially interfere with hormones like estrogen and testosterone and should therefore not be consumed while pregnant.

While consuming whole edible mushrooms and mushroom extracts may be safe in small doses, their safety in mixed beverages such as mushroom coffee is still uncertain. Mushroom coffee mixes roasted coffee with concentrated mushroom extracts – although some studies on whole mushrooms as part of diet have demonstrated benefits such as decreased blood pressure – this doesn’t translate directly to what can be expected with such concentrated products like mushroom coffee mixes.

As a rule of thumb, it’s best to avoid these types of coffee blends while breastfeeding. Instead, try eating various varieties of fresh mushrooms or using them in cooking to reap their health benefits without risk. If you want an occasional indulgence like mushroom coffee, talk with your physician or lactation consultant first; small amounts can pass into breast milk so it is wise to consume in moderation.