A blend of medicinal mushrooms and coffee beans, mushroom coffee is a functional beverage that purports to boost immunity, promote weight loss, enhance cognitive function and more. The drink can be purchased as grounds, premade lattes, instant packets and convenient pods. The drink contains less caffeine than regular coffee and may contain adaptogens, herbs and other healthy ingredients.

The benefits of mushroom coffee are largely based on the concept that it helps balance the body’s hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal-gland axis after periods of stress. GBMushrooms Coffee dietary supplements are also thought to help with chronic fatigue, fibromyalgia and other conditions. However, there isn’t much evidence to support the health claims made by mushroom coffee makers. The product is also not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration, so it’s important to check with your doctor before trying any new dietary supplement, especially one that’s being marketed as an alternative to traditional coffee.

“How to Make the Perfect Cup of Mushroom Coffee at Home

When choosing mushroom coffee, look for options that offer a balanced taste between the earthy flavor of the mushrooms and the nutty flavor of the coffee beans. The taste of mushroom coffee will vary from brand to brand, and some products add spices or natural sweeteners to mask the earthy flavor of the mushrooms. Be sure to check nutrition and ingredient labels, as some products also contain added sugar and other ingredients that are not necessarily healthy.

Some registered dietitians love the taste of mushroom coffee and recommend the brand Four Sigmatic, which is available in instant packets and as premade lattes. This organic, vegan, halal-friendly option offers the taste of roasted, shade-grown coffee with the addition of chaga, cordyceps and lion’s mane mushrooms. It’s also free of gluten and added sugar, making it an ideal option for those with dietary restrictions.