Regular coffee packs a caffeine punch, while mushroom coffee offers a gentler wake-up with potentially added health benefits. This comparison is critical because some people experience coffee jitters or anxiety with regular coffee, and mushroom coffee might provide a smoother alternative.
This unique blend combines ground Arabica or Robusta beans with functional mushrooms. Let’s delve into this intriguing trend, comparing it to our beloved regular coffee across several vital aspects.
Features | Regular Coffee | Mushroom Coffee |
Caffeine | Higher | Lower (often half the amount) |
Potential Health Benefits | Limited | Adaptogens for stress, immunity, and gut health |
Taste | Familiar coffee flavour | Earthier, sometimes with added flavours |
Price | Lower | Higher |
Potential for Staining Teeth | Higher | Lower (due to lower coffee content) |
Recommended Caffeine Intake During Pregnancy | Up to 200mg per day | May be a more suitable option due to the lower caffeine content, but consult a doctor first |
Environmental Impact | Causes deforestation and soil erosion | Utilizes recycled materials and requires less land |
The Taste Test: Regular Brew vs. Earthy Flavour Enigma
Fear not, coffee purists! Mushroom coffee generally stays within the classic cup you know and love. The functional mushrooms are finely ground and blended with regular coffee beans, resulting in a subtle earthiness that some find complements the coffee’s natural roast.
The intensity can vary depending on the type and amount of mushroom used. Some of the best mushroom coffee brands even incorporate additional flavours like vanilla or chocolate to create a smoother experience.
Caffeine Content: A Gentler Jolt
One of the most significant differences lies in caffeine content. Regular coffee packs around 95mg of caffeine, while mushroom coffee usually lands around half that amount. This is because the mushrooms themselves are caffeine-free. For those who experience jitters or have issues with regular coffee and anxiety, the lower dose of mushroom coffee can be a welcome change.
However, if you crave that robust caffeine kick, mushroom coffee might leave you wanting more. The one having second thoughts on coffee and sleep disruption, or coffee and inflammation, can indeed brew a cup of less caffeine mushroom coffee.
Health Benefits:
Here’s where things get interesting. Regular coffee boasts its own set of health advantages. Studies suggest it can improve cognitive function, boost metabolism, and even lower the risk of certain diseases.
However, mushroom coffee takes a different approach, introducing “adaptogens.” These natural compounds in certain mushrooms may help the body adapt to stress. Lion’s mane mushrooms, for example, are linked to improved cognitive function and memory. Chaga mushrooms hold promise for immune system support, while Reishi mushrooms are traditionally used to manage stress and anxiety. It’s important to note that research on these benefits is still ongoing.
Side Effects: Weighing the Risks
Both regular and mushroom coffee can have side effects. Regular coffee, with its higher caffeine content, can cause jitters, anxiety, insomnia, and headaches, especially for those sensitive to caffeine. While generally well-tolerated, mushroom coffee can cause digestive issues in some people, particularly those with pre-existing gut sensitivities. Listen to your body and consult a healthcare professional if you experience any adverse reactions.
Regular Coffee vs Mushroom Coffee Price
Here’s where the scales may tip towards regular coffee.
- Mushroom coffee is usually more expensive than regular coffee because it’s newer and not as common.
- A bag of high-quality coffee beans might cost around $8-$22, whereas a bag of mushroom coffee blends can range from $18-$42.
Environmental Impact: Considering the Footprint
Both coffee and mushroom production can have environmental consequences. Regular coffee farming can contribute to deforestation and soil erosion. Mushroom cultivation, on the other hand, often utilizes recycled materials and requires less land. However, the long-term environmental Impact of large-scale mushroom coffee production is still being studied.
Diving Deeper into Specific Mushrooms:
- Lion’s Mane Coffee: This blend is gaining popularity for its potential cognitive benefits. Lion’s mane mushrooms have been shown to promote nerve growth factor, which may improve memory and focus.
- Chaga Mushroom Coffee: If you’re looking for an immune system boost, chaga mushroom coffee might be worth a try. Chaga mushrooms are rich in antioxidants and may help fight inflammation.
- Cordyceps Coffee: Athletes, take note! Cordyceps mushrooms are traditionally used to enhance stamina and performance. While ongoing research, some studies suggest these benefits may translate to athletic pursuits.
- Reishi Mushroom Coffee: Feeling stressed? Reishi mushroom coffee might be your answer. Reishi mushrooms have adaptogenic properties that may help manage stress and anxiety.
Brewing Methods: No Big Surprise
There’s no special equipment needed for mushroom coffee. It uses the same brewing methods as regular coffee – pour-over, drip machine, French press – you name it! Regular coffee, of course, follows the same brewing techniques.
Which Coffee Stains Teeth?
Both coffees can stain teeth, but regular coffee is the bigger culprit. Coffee contains chromogens, which bond to tooth enamel and cause discoloration. Since mushroom coffee is part coffee, part mushroom, it may have a slightly lower staining effect. Mushroom coffee is a better choice if you are worried about teeth staining. Some insights on mushroom coffee and teeth staining here.
Pregnancy and Coffee: A Delicate Balance
While both coffees contain caffeine, moderation is vital during pregnancy. Expectant mothers are advised by medical professionals to consume no more than 200mg of caffeine per day by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Given its lower caffeine sensitivity content, mushroom coffee might be a better choice for pregnant women who still crave a coffee ritual. However, it’s always best to consult your doctor before consuming any caffeine during pregnancy. Read more on mushroom coffee and pregnancy.
Fasting and Coffee: A Clear Winner
A Plain black coffee is a safe option if you’re following a fasting regimen. Since it contains minimal calories and doesn’t trigger a significant insulin response, it won’t break your fast. With its added adaptogens, Mushroom coffee might have some potential benefits during a fast, but more research is needed. Overall, black coffee remains the more straightforward choice for fasted mornings.
Here’s more details on mushroom coffee and fasting.
NOTE:
Mushroom coffees are naturally vegan and boast potential health benefits thanks to adaptogens found in certain mushrooms. These natural compounds help your body manage stress and inflammation, potentially supporting cognitive function, immunity, and gut health. Whether you prefer a light, medium, or dark roast for your coffee base, there’s a mushroom coffee blend out there waiting to be discovered.
Final Thoughts:
While research on the specific benefits of mushroom coffee is still ongoing, the combination of adaptogenic mushrooms and lower caffeine content may offer advantages for those seeking reduced jitters and potential immune support. Ultimately, the choice between mushroom coffee and regular coffee boils down to individual preferences and needs.
FAQ
No, mushroom coffee generally doesn’t taste strongly of mushrooms. Here’s why:
- Subtle Mushroom Flavor: The mushrooms used in mushroom coffee are processed and ground finely. This minimizes the intense “umami” or earthy flavour that fresh mushrooms can have.
- Blended with Coffee: The coffee grounds contribute most of the flavour profile.
- Taste Variations: Some brands even incorporate additional flavours like vanilla or chocolate to create a smoother experience.
Mushroom coffee won’t give you jitters than regular coffee due to its lower caffeine content. Here’s a breakdown:
- Lower Caffeine: Regular coffee typically packs around 95mg of caffeine per cup, while mushroom coffee usually lands around half that amount. This can be a significant difference for those sensitive to caffeine.
- Individual Sensitivity: While many find mushroom coffee gentler, depending on their overall caffeine sensitivity, some people might still experience jitters.
If you’re concerned about jitters, it’s best to start with a small amount of mushroom coffee and see how your body reacts. You can also look for brands with even lower caffeine content or those that decaf the coffee component altogether.
Mushroom coffee might be the greener choice. It uses less land and water than regular coffee since mushrooms can be grown indoors or on recycled materials. However, the sustainability of large-scale mushroom coffee production still needs to be studied.
