Health booster coffee: A trend aims to make it truly healthy

Coffee is no longer just considered a stimulant. Studies show that the popular beverage – when used correctly – can also have positive effects on health.

For many people, coffee is an integral part of daily life. Whether black, with milk, or as a cappuccino, the beverage is part of the morning ritual for millions. At the same time, interest is growing in functional foods that do more than just fill you up or wake you up. In this context, so-called mushroom coffee is appearing more and more frequently – coffee enriched with extracts from medicinal mushrooms. Proponents promise benefits for the brain, immune system, and metabolism. A look at the available studies reveals what is realistic.

Coffee as a base: Why it can already be healthy

Numerous scientific studies have shown that moderate coffee consumption is associated with a lower risk of certain diseases. These include type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and neurodegenerative diseases. Among the factors responsible are polyphenols and antioxidants, which have anti-inflammatory effects.

A large review article in the New England Journal of Medicine concludes that coffee shows predominantly positive effects in healthy adults – provided it is not consumed excessively.

What exactly is mushroom coffee?

Mushroom coffee isn't a mushroom beverage in the traditional sense. It uses regular coffee to which finely ground extracts from so-called medicinal mushrooms are added. These mushrooms are neutral to slightly earthy in taste and contain bioactive substances such as beta-glucans, triterpenes, and polysaccharides, as medical expert Lauren Manaker explains.

Important: No edible mushrooms, such as button mushrooms, are used; only specially processed medicinal mushrooms, mostly in concentrated extract form.

These mushrooms are used particularly frequently.

Hedgehog's beard (Hericium erinaceus)

Also known as "lion's mane". Studies indicate that components of this fungus may promote nerve cell growth and have anti-inflammatory effects. Small human studies have also shown positive effects on cognitive performance and mood.

Chaga (Inonotus obliquus)

Chaga is rich in antioxidants. Laboratory and animal studies suggest that it can modulate the immune system and reduce inflammatory processes. Claims regarding cancer prevention are currently based primarily on preclinical research.

Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum)

This mushroom is traditionally used to reduce stress and boost the immune system. Studies show potential effects on blood sugar levels, sleep quality, and subjective well-being.

What does science really say?

The health effects of these mushrooms are partly well-researched, though mostly in isolation rather than in combination with coffee. Many studies have been conducted in laboratories or with animals; clinical trials with humans are still limited.

Nutritionists, therefore, point out that mushroom coffee is not a medicinal product, but a functional food. It can complement a balanced diet, but it does not replace therapy.

Make your own mushroom coffee: Here's how

Those who don't want to buy ready-made mushroom coffee can easily make it themselves.

You will need:

• freshly brewed coffee
• Mushroom extract powder (e.g., Reishi, Lion's Mane, or Chaga)
• (Optional: milk or plant-based drink)
• Spices like cinnamon or vanilla

Preparation:

1. Prepare coffee as usual.
2. Stir in a small amount of mushroom powder (usually 0.5–1 g).
3. Add milk, plant-based milk, or spices to taste.

It is important to start with low doses and to follow the manufacturer's instructions.

And without mushrooms? Here's the healthiest way to drink coffee.

If you prefer to avoid mushroom powder, coffee remains a potentially healthy beverage. Studies show that black coffee is particularly rich in antioxidants. Milk can bind certain polyphenols, slightly reducing their effectiveness; however, the effect is moderate.

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