The combination of coffee and mushrooms promises all the benefits of both ingredients without the overdoing and harmful effects of caffeine.
Coffee is the Brazilians’ favorite drink – it also finds space in the pre-workout – but what happens when we combine coffee with mushrooms? And, before thinking about hallucinogens, let’s explain: the combination of coffee and mushrooms is gaining ground all over the world for its health properties.
THE BENEFITS OF COFFEE
“Studies already show that coffee is able to protect heart health and against degenerative diseases (such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s), as it is rich in antioxidants, minerals, vitamins and flavonoids”, explains the physical educator and nutritionist of Be Nutrition Health , Vanessa Furstenberger . “It also helps the brain release natural stimulants like dopamine and adrenaline and may also be associated with weight loss by having a thermogenic effect.”
However, it’s important to note that these benefits are only achieved when the beverage is consumed safely. The average, for adults, is four cups of filtered coffee a day. Furthermore, it is possible that drinking interferes with sleep and also causes gastrointestinal problems, such as gastritis.
BENEFITS OF MUSHROOMS
Mushrooms, on the other hand, are sources of vitamins, mainly of the B complex, folic acid, zinc, iron, phosphorus and calcium. These foods also have a number of medicinal properties, which improve the immune system, control cholesterol, thyroid hormones and can help fight diabetes, among other diseases.
“Mushrooms are foods rich in nutrients and bioactive compounds that can provide various health benefits, such as strengthening the immune system, antioxidant protection, the supply of essential nutrients and therapeutic potential”, reiterates the endocrinologist Dr. Thais Mussi .
MUSHROOM COFFEE, DOES IT WORK?
Knowing the benefits of each ingredient separately, the question remains: is coffee with mushrooms an interesting combination for health? To start the conversation, it is important to clarify that the mushrooms used for this combination are medicinal, from the adaptogen family, which collaborate with the attention, concentration and energy of the body.
Basically, these mushrooms are ground into a powder, which is combined with coffee powder to create what is known as “mushroom coffee”. Typically, ready-to-drink coffee blends, such as the MUD/WTR and Four Sigmatic brands, extract the caffeine from green tea leaves or milder coffee blends, i.e. the goal is to provide the body with the benefits of this compounded, but not overdone, in a potent combination that promises more energy and focus throughout the day.
“Coffee and mushrooms, in general, have benefits, so the combination should help somewhat,” continues the endocrinologist. “However, I think the lack of robust research to support any health claims associated with the product is worth considering.”
For Vanessa, the mushrooms that are combined with coffee for these blends benefit the immune system and are rich in antioxidants, very important compounds for the correct functioning of the body.
Let’s take as an example the mushrooms present in MUD combinations. Lion’s mane mushroom affects memory and cognition. Cordyceps can improve sports performance and sexual appetite. Finally, reishi acts as a natural relaxant.
“The blend of the coffee with the mushroom results in a smoother drink for the stomach and carries the effect of caffeine, but without decompensating the organism, as with pure coffee, without causing anxiety and also has no rebound effect, bringing double fatigue when the effect wears off,” explains the nutritionist. “So what we have as a reference, in principle, is that the mixture is beneficial.”
RISKS OF COFFEE WITH MUSHROOMS
Despite the very positive publicity for this drink, it is important to point out that there are still not enough studies and scientific evidence to guarantee the benefits promised by the combination.
Additionally, mushrooms have been known to sometimes cause digestive problems, especially for people with kidney problems or those with grains.
“The combination itself is safe as long as you can drink coffee and not have a problem with mushrooms,” explains Dr. Thais. “Also, the relevance of this question is worth understanding. We should consider whether, instead of consuming more expensive coffees enriched with mushroom extract, wouldn’t it be more interesting to stick to traditional coffee consumption and include whole mushrooms in the diet?”
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
