Hailed as a healthier alternative to regular coffee, mushroom coffee offers medicinal mushroom extracts and additional health benefits.
Although it’s currently a trending coffee blend, this concept is far from new.
According to online sources, mushrooms were used as a coffee substitute in Finland during World War II when coffee beans were not available. There is a long history of using mushrooms in cooking and medicine, especially in herbal medicine.
Mushroom coffee is a delicate blend of ground mushrooms and coffee beans that brews a strong, smooth and nutty coffee. Mushroom coffee typically uses medicinal mushroom extracts rather than edible mushrooms such as shiitake and portobello.
Ryze Mushroom Coffee is one of the most popular products to capitalize on the mushroom coffee trend. It is a coffee alternative made with a combination of coffee, medium-chain triglyceride (MCT) oil, and a blend of mushrooms.
In this Ryze mushroom coffee review, we will explore the Ryze mushroom coffee ingredients, Is ryze mushroom coffee good? and potential side effects.
What is Ryze mushroom coffee?
Ryze mushroom coffee is a coffee alternative made with a combination of coffee, medium-chain triglyceride (MCT) oil, and a blend of mushrooms.
Mushroom coffee may offer some benefits above regular coffee. The mushrooms in Ryze mushroom coffee are considered “functional mushrooms” or adaptogens, meaning they may offer benefits related to brain health, stress, and immune function.
RYZE Mushroom Coffee uses six different types of functional shrooms in its mushroom coffee. The friendly fungi have long been used to promote wellness and are scientifically linked to help with cognition, inflammation, energy, and immunity.
The brand’s mushroom coffee uses an organic mushroom blend of king’s trumpet, cordyceps, turkey tail, and others, along with MCT and a touch of coffee to give you sustained energy and a clear mind without the jitters.
RYZE is marketed as an alternative coffee drink that is lower in caffeine and higher in nutrients than plain coffee. The company claims that its product helps with focus, energy, and immunity.
The formula may not provide sufficiently dosed mushrooms, but it still may be a good coffee alternative to normal coffee.
The mushrooms are grown in California while the coffee and MCT oil are from other suppliers within the United States. The mushrooms are organic, but their coffee and MCT oil are not certified organic at this time.
The taste of RYZE is described as earthy compared to regular coffee, but that it doesn’t taste like mushrooms. The texture is said to be smooth and creamy because of the MCT oil. The company recommends drinking RYZE in the morning to provide energy throughout the day.
Who is behind Ryze mushroom coffee?
RYZE was founded by Andrée Werner and Rashad Hossain, in 2019. Andrée Werner and Rashad Hossain are Havard graduates. After spending years overconsuming coffee and feeling more and more drained by the practice, they began dabbling in adding medicinal mushrooms to their cups until they found a formula, they were happy with the RYZE Mushroom Coffee we know now.
The company was founded with the intention of helping people feel more purposeful and ready to take on the day, every day. The RYZE company is based in Boston, Massachusetts, but the product is manufactured in and shipped from Texas.
Ryze mushroom Coffee Ingredients
RYZE Coffee is a great alternative for those looking for a more natural way to increase their productivity. Adding functional mushrooms and MCT oil makes this coffee a more potent bio hack than regular coffee. There are 8 ingredients in RYZE coffee, including their 2,000 mg blend of mushrooms.
It also has 48mg of caffeine, which is about half a standard cup of coffee.
Ryze organic Mushroom Blend, 2,000 mg
According to registered dietitian and clinical herbalist Jenna Volpe, RDN, CLT, mushroom coffee is a term used to describe certain types of coffee or coffee substitutes made with dried, powdered or pre-extracted adaptogenic mushrooms.
Adaptogenic mushrooms are herbs that, when taken regularly, can help the body to adapt to stress. Volpe explains that mushroom coffee is made from adaptogenic mushrooms including reishi, cordyceps, chaga, turkey tail and lion’s mane. The mushroom coffee product you’re eyeing may include one, a few or all of these mushroom types.
Western medicine has only recently begun researching their properties, offering the validity needed for medical professionals to justify recommendations.
The ingredients label shows that there is a mushroom blend of 2,000 mg per serving in the product, but it doesn’t clarify how much of each mushroom is in one serving.
This means that we can’t accurately compare the individual mushroom amounts in this product to relevant mushroom studies.
Cordyceps Mushrooms
Cordyceps is a fungus that lives on certain caterpillars in the high mountains of China. It is sometimes used as medicine. For at least 300 years, the Chinese have used mushrooms to treat fatigue, cough, kidney problems, and more.
A 2017 study showed that the athlete showed greater tolerance to high-intensity exercise after he took 4 grams of mushroom mix containing cordyceps for 3 weeks. This effect is believed to be due to the body’s ability to use oxygen more efficiently.
Another small, double-blind study in 20 older men showed significant improvements in exercise performance after taking 333 mg of cordyceps three times a day for 12 weeks compared to a placebo group.
Most dietary supplements use laboratory-made cordyceps. Although cordyceps are sometimes called fungi, lab-made cordyceps do not grow as fungi.
Cordyceps can boost immunity by stimulating immune system cells and certain chemicals. It also helps fight cancer cells and reduce the size of tumors, especially in the case of lung and skin cancers. Natural cordyceps can be difficult to come by and expensive.
Reishi Mushrooms
Reishi is one of several medicinal mushrooms that have been used for centuries to treat infections, mainly in Asian countries. More recently, it has also been used to treat lung disease and cancer.
Medicinal mushrooms have been approved in Japan and China for over 30 years as an adjunct to standard cancer treatment and have an extensive clinical history of safe use as single agents or in combination with chemotherapy.
Reishi has been used to boost the immune system, reduce stress, improve sleep, and reduce fatigue. People also take reishi for health conditions such as:
- high blood pressure
- high cholesterol
- cardiovascular disease
- liver or kidney disease
- Respiratory disease (such as asthma)
- Viral infection (such as influenza)
There is some scientific evidence of its effectiveness, including laboratory studies and some small human studies.
In a small study of 48 breast cancer survivors, participants found that 1,000 mg of Reishi spore powder three times daily for 4 weeks improved liver and kidney function. They reported better anxiety and depressive symptoms than the placebo group.
A review of pooled animal and human studies using five different mushrooms showed that Reishi mushrooms have immune-boosting effects against several different types of cancer.
The review concluded that mushrooms can be used as part of cancer treatment.
King Trumpet
King trumpet mushrooms are native to the Mediterranean, North Africa and the Middle East. As their popularity has grown in recent years, however, they are now cultivated all over the world. They are especially popular in China and Japan for their umami flavor.
King trumpet mushrooms have especially high levels of ergothioneine, an antioxidant found in the mushroom’s mycelium and fruit bodies that helps reduce damage from free radicals and oxidative stress.
King Trumpet mushrooms also contain a high quantity of selenium, another essential antioxidant. Several recent studies have turned up even more impressive potential health benefits of king trumpet mushrooms.
These powerful superfoods have been shown to lower cholesterol and help with weight loss. They’ve been linked to a lower risk of breast cancer and prostate cancer. And king trumpet mushroom extracts have also been shown to have anti-viral properties and to support bone health.
Shiitake Mushrooms
Shiitake mushrooms have a rich, earthy flavor and a distinctive taste best described as meaty. These mushrooms have large caps measuring 2 to 5 inches wide, and they vary in color from light to chocolate brown, providing an attractive contrast with their pale cream underside.
Shiitake mushrooms have one of the highest amounts of natural copper, a mineral that supports healthy blood vessels, bones, and immune support. In fact, 1/2 cup of shiitake mushrooms gives you 72 percent of your daily recommended intake (DRI) of this mineral. The mushrooms are also a rich source of selenium, providing 33 percent of your DRI.
They are also great source of several vitamins and minerals such as:
- Niacin, a B vitamin that helps the body make energy.
- Copper, which aids the body’s immune system, aids in energy production, and is necessary for brain development.
- Pantothenic Acid to Help the Body Convert Glucose into Energy
A small 2015 study found evidence that eating shiitake mushrooms regularly for several weeks boosts immunity. Blood samples taken from people after eating 5 to 10 grams of mushrooms daily for four weeks showed an improvement in their immune systems.
Lion’s Mane Mushrooms
RYZE Superfoods claims their products support focus.
The lion’s mane mushroom (Hericium erinaceus) is being studied for its potential to fight neurological disorders such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. A small human study of 30 people examined the main effects of Lyons Her on men and women aged 50–80 years with mild cognitive impairment.
After taking 250 mg of mushroom powder three times a day for 16 weeks, there was significant cognitive improvement compared to the placebo group.
An article published in the Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine explains that mushrooms help the brain by stimulating the growth of nerve cells.
Turkey Tail Mushrooms
Turkey tail (Coriolus versicolor) is a mushroom. It contains polysaccharide peptide (PSP) and polysaccharide krestin (PSK), which are used as medicine.
Turkey tail mushroom grows on stumps and the decomposing wood of trees. The PSP and PSK in turkey tail mushroom might help slow cancer growth and boost the immune system.
People use turkey tail mushroom to improve response to cancer medicines and radiation. It is also used for muscle strength, fatigue, UTIs, and many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses.
MCTs and Coffee, 4,000 mg
Medium Chain Triglycerides
Medium-chain triglycerides contain medium-chain fatty acid esterified to the glycerol backbone. These MCFA have a shorter chain length and are quickly metabolized in the body serving as an immediate energy source.
MCTs are a fat source for people who cannot tolerate other types of fats. These fats might also improve weight loss because the body can more easily break them down into molecules called ketone bodies. These ketone bodies can be used for energy.
People use MCTs for involuntary weight loss called cachexia or wasting syndrome. MCTs are also used for obesity, seizures, athletic performance, Alzheimer disease, and many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these other uses.
Coffee
RYZE’s ingredient list includes coffee, which is known to contain a stimulant called caffeine.
RYZE states that each serving contains 48 mg of caffeine. That’s about half the caffeine in a regular cup of coffee.
Caffeine has been the subject of hundreds of studies. This drug is known for its effects on the body and brain. It provides energy and can help people focus. Caffeine has been shown to improve task performance in some cases.
It works by crossing the blood-brain barrier and attaching to special receptors in the brain, making you feel awake and alert. Caffeine has also been shown to improve exercise performance.
In summary caffeine is a stimulant found in coffee that can increase people’s focus and perceived energy.
Benefits of Ryze mushroom coffee
It has less caffeine
As previously mentioned, mushroom coffee has less caffeine — and some have zero caffeine. This means that if traditional coffee makes you jittery or is interfering with your sleep, mushroom coffee may be a good substitute. Also, if you are trying to cut ties with coffee but can’t go cold turkey, it can be used as a transitional beverage.
Mushroom coffee may help the body manage stress.
By definition, adaptogenic mushrooms are known to help the body manage stress. (There are other adaptogenic herbs besides mushrooms that work similarly too, including ashwagandha and schizandra berry.) Adaptogenic herbs bring balance to the body by increasing or decreasing chemical reactions in the body.
It supports the immune system.
“Mushroom coffee is well-known for its ability to help improve immunity,” Volpe says. This is because the bio compounds in the mushrooms help reduce inflammation, and high levels of inflammation can lead to sickness.
Mushroom coffee may help protect against chronic diseases.
The anti-inflammatory properties of the mushrooms in mushroom coffee aren’t just beneficial for keeping immune health in top shape. Volpe says they may also help protect against chronic diseases since these ailments are caused by high, chronic levels of inflammation. More research needs to be done to see exactly how adaptogenic mushrooms in mushroom coffee can be used in this way.
Mushroom coffee can help you focus.
One of the reasons traditional coffee is beloved is because it helps with focus and concentration. If your mushroom coffee contains lion’s mane — or if lion’s mane is being used in place of coffee beans — you’ll also experience this benefit. In fact, this particular mushroom is currently being studied as a way to protect against cognitive diseases such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s.
Customer Reviews on RYZE mushroom coffee
RYZE Mushroom Coffee is not available on Amazon or other third-party sites, but RYZE’s website has a huge range of customer reviews, and they are diverse. It looks like there is no bias.
RYZE Mushroom Coffee Formula has 4,620 reviews and this formula has a 4.9 out of 5 star rating.
Let’s take a look at the Ryze mushroom coffee reviews!
Leaving traditional coffee seemed impossible but I really adapted to this routine and renewed my subscription. I don’t know if I feel better because of the mushrooms or the reduced caffeine, and I don’t care. I like to use the mct creamer and I float some steamed almond milk on top.
5-star review
I’ve been drinking the coffee for 3-4 days now. The coffee itself tastes interesting (not a huge fan), however, I have to admit that I’ve been feeling better. Not sure if the placebo effect has any influence, but I’ve had a noticeable decrease in brain fog.
3-star review
If you are a regular coffee drinker (black coffee in particular), this stuff is quite a disappointment. Don’t drink it straight – it doesn’t taste like coffee. It is a bit better with a creamer, oat or almond milk, or something of the sorts – but unimpressive. Finally, it’s pretty expensive. ~1 for a cup of coffee whereas I can buy a bag of good normal for less than $.20 per cup.
Potential Side effects
Mushroom extracts have not been well studied in humans, but mushroom coffee is probably safe for most healthy people. Long-term safety studies for daily use are also not available.
People who are allergic to mushrooms or coconut should avoid this product. RYZE’s medium chain triglycerides are extracted from coconut oil.
Some people experience gastrointestinal side effects such as
- abdominal cramps
- nausea, and
- bloating after taking MCT oil.
Some people have noticed mushroom powder side effects such as rashes, upset stomach, nausea, itching, dry mouth, and dizziness.
Reishi may increase the activity of anticoagulants or antiplatelets, causing excessive bleeding while cordyceps has also shown anticoagulant effects in some studies.
How does RYZE Mushroom Coffee Taste?
RYZE mushroom coffee is unflavored and unsweetened, and the taste is controversial.
Negative reviews about the taste of the formula suggest that the formula tastes too natural. However, if you are making a “coffee” with this formula, you can add sweeteners.
Cost and where to buy Ryze mushroom coffee
RYZE Mushroom Coffee is available for purchase from their website. The cost is $36 for one 30-serving pouch, which works out to $1.20 per serving. With each purchase, you also get a free handmade acacia spoon with your first order, a free gratitude journal app, and free shipping.
That’s relatively cheap compared to buying coffee at a coffee stand, but nothing compared to making coffee at home, which can be brewed for less than 20 cents a cup.
If it replaces your morning coffee, I think the cost is reasonable and worth it, especially if you’re going to a barista. The company offers a 30-day money-back guarantee if the product is unopened. Customers should contact the company before returning to find out how to obtain a refund. There is a 3% fee, and the customer also pays for shipping.
RYZE is an affordable product, especially compared to buying coffee at home.
Ryze mushroom coffee verdict
RYZE Mushroom Coffee is a hot morning drink that may offer nutrients from mushrooms and medium-chain triglycerides that your usual morning coffee won’t provide. You can also cut your caffeine intake in half by drinking it instead of coffee.
RYZE Mushroom Coffee’s formula may not contain all the mushrooms in the formula in adequate doses, but the formula is actually a good one for those looking for a coffee alternative. I would say yes!
However, if you’re looking for a well-dosed all-mushroom formula, we recommend looking elsewhere or looking for a superfood formula that includes mushroom ingredients.