It’s no surprise to see certain trends and items continuously cycle their way throughout the media. These products are often thrown into the limelight and “blown up” through various forms of internet coverage and popularity. This then begs the question, what products are hitting the main stage as of right now? There are, of course, countless answers to this question; however, mushroom coffee is one that no doubt catches the eye.

So what is mushroom coffee, and why has it become so popular?

In short, mushroom coffee is a form of coffee that includes powdered mushrooms as a main ingredient. The mushrooms used in such coffee are typically ones known for their health benefits, like chaga, turkey’s tail, reishi, or lion’s mane. In a vast majority of these coffee blends, medicinal mushrooms are used as opposed to culinary ones, and incorporated in a blend with ground coffee beans. This unique form of coffee has become popular due to its potential health benefits, as well as its unique flavor and low levels of caffeine. Therefore, it’s been made appealing to those who prefer a healthier alternative to traditionally known coffee.

For those who don’t know what it is, another question often arises: what are the health benefits that make it so enticing? The potential benefits are said to range from improved immune system, reduced inflammation, reduced anxiety, and improved cognitive function, as well as increased focus and concentration. Some consumers also attest to mushroom coffee having an overall smoother and less acidic taste than regular coffee, making it suitable for those sensitive to acidic foods. One of the key ingredients in mushroom coffee is a type of mushroom called chaga, which is known for its high levels of antioxidants and immune-boosting properties. Additionally, mushroom coffee contains beta-glucans, which have been shown to improve cardiovascular health and regulate blood sugar levels.

However, despite its potential health benefits, mushroom coffee has some downsides that should be considered before incorporating it into one’s daily routine. Firstly, the taste of mushroom coffee may not be for everyone, as it can have a slightly earthy and bitter flavor. This may be unusual for those who are used to the smooth and light taste of regular coffee. Additionally, the price of mushroom coffee can be higher than regular types of coffee, as the mushrooms used are often sourced from specialty farms and the production process is more labor-intensive. This also means it may be harder to get ahold of mushroom coffee, as opposed to the easily accessible store-bought coffee brands. Ultimately, the most important thing to note is that, like most fast growing products, the health benefits of mushroom coffee have not been extensively studied, so it’s unclear just how effective the listed health benefits are. Always make sure to contact a medical professional if there are any concerns in integrating something new into your diet, as while mushroom coffee has soared in popularity, it may not be for everyone.