For those who are caffeine sensitive or want a coffee alternative that can help boost mental clarity, reduce stress and support digestive health, mushroom coffee may be the answer. This drink typically contains less caffeine than traditional coffee and combines espresso with extracts from medicinal mushrooms, such as lion’s mane, cordyceps, turkey tail and chaga.

Unlike regular coffee, Quality mushroom coffee extracts are said to offer adaptogenic properties that can help address stress and anxiety, gut health, immunity and even help with weight loss. But with a variety of different mushroom blends, price points and ingredients out there, choosing the best option for you can be overwhelming.

Mushroom Coffee for Beginners: What You Need to Know

In addition to selecting the right type of mushroom extract, it’s also important to look at other ingredients in a product, including sweeteners. Check the Nutrition Facts label for added sugars and artificial sweeteners (including aspartame, sucralose, stevia or erythritol) as these can have negative effects on some individuals. Those with a mushroom allergy should also steer clear of these products as symptoms can range from mild to severe and include stomach pain, breathing difficulty, hives and rashes.

While many brands offer mushroom coffee, there are a few that stand out for their quality and taste. Four Sigmatic is a renowned mushroom coffee brand and a top choice among registered dietitians. The company combines Arabica instant coffee with lion’s mane and chaga mushrooms, which are known for their cognitive benefits, and then tests their products for mycotoxins, pesticide residues and heavy metals. The result is a coffee that has a subtle, rich flavor profile and provides a high-quality experience.