Mushroom Coffee Vs Regular Coffee (Ultimate Comparison Guide)

Who would win this battle over mushroom coffee vs regular coffee?

Here is a table showing you a head-to-head comparison for regular coffee vs mushroom coffee:

Aspect	Mushroom Coffee	Regular Coffee	Winner	Notes
Caffeine Content	Lower caffeine with adaptogens for a smoother, balanced energy boost	Higher caffeine for a quick energy surge	Mushroom Coffee	Ideal for those seeking steady energy without jitters
Antioxidant Levels	Enhanced with natural antioxidants plus additional mushroom compounds	Naturally high; varies with bean type and roast	Mushroom Coffee	Offers extra protection against oxidative stress
Health Benefits	Supports immune function, stress relief, cognitive support, and overall vitality	Boosts alertness and mental focus; may lead to energy spikes	Mushroom Coffee	Provides broader functional benefits
Taste Profile	Smooth, earthy, with a subtle mushroom note	Bold, robust, and sometimes acidic	Subjective	Choice depends on personal preference
Nutritional Value	Adds bioactive compounds from mushrooms for extra nutritional benefits	Provides essential nutrients inherent to coffee beans	Mushroom Coffee	Extra nutritional benefits can enhance overall well-being
Price	Slightly higher due to premium, functional ingredients	Generally more affordable and widely available	Regular Coffee	Lower cost reflects standard production
Sourcing & Production	Emphasis on organic, sustainable, and toxin-free practices	Quality varies; traditional methods may not prioritise toxin elimination	Mushroom Coffee	Transparency in sourcing is a key selling point for many consumers
Potential Side Effects	Lower risk of jitteriness; smoother, sustained energy release	May cause jitteriness or digestive issues in some individuals	Mushroom Coffee	Gentler on the system for many users

Every morning, my routine was the same: grind the beans, brew the perfect cup, and take that first sip of liquid motivation. Coffee was a craft, a ritual, and a necessary fuel for my productivity.

But as I dug deeper into biohacking and functional nutrition, I started questioning my coffee habit. Was my daily brew actually making me better, or was it just a cycle of caffeine highs and crashes?

That’s when I came across the best mushroom coffees, a functional twist on my favourite drink that promised smoother energy, sharper focus, and fewer side effects.

I'm James Bellis, founder of Balance Coffee, a coffee entrepreneur and biohacker. With 12+ years in the industry, I hold an SCA Coffee Skills Diploma and specialise in healthy coffee, biohacking, and adaptogenic mushrooms. Full bio here.

As a coffee professional, I was skeptical. I asked questions like:

• Would it taste earthy?

• Would it work?

• Could it ever replace the coffee experience I loved? 

I did what any barista would do: I tested it.

I experimented with both, brewing cups day in and day out and journaling my observations. So, mushroom coffee vs regular coffee: Which is a better caffeine beverage?

Stay with me as I draw on my professional barista experience to give you the answers that will help you easily reach a decision. 

What Is Mushroom Coffee?

Mushrooms in coffee? Yeah, I had the same reaction more than two years ago. Why mess with a perfectly good cup of coffee? After all, I was happy with the coffee I brewed daily from the best coffee beans in the UK. 

But here’s the thing: you’re not getting chunks of mushrooms floating in your brew with shroom coffee.

Clementine Rose, a BANT-registered nutritional therapist specialising in gut health, hormones, and weight management, who also works with Google's Kyros Project and Balance Coffee to ensure nutritionally refined products, says,

“Mushroom coffee isn't just a drink; it's a smarter choice. It gives you a gentle, sustained boost without the caffeine rollercoaster, making it a clear winner for long-term wellness.”

In fact, mushroom coffee is made using finely ground medicinal mushrooms blended seamlessly with coffee beans. There are no weird textures or earthy aftertaste, just a smooth, familiar cup of coffee with extra benefits.

So, if you’re thinking about mushroom coffee vs regular coffee taste, don’t worry. You won’t get an umami flavour if you know how to choose mushroom coffee. 

So, how is it made? There are two main ways brands create mushroom coffee:

There are two main ways brands create mushroom coffee:

The Traditional Blend

Most mushroom coffee brands do this. They harvest medicinal mushrooms like Lion’s Mane, Chaga, or Reishi, dry them out, and grind them into a fine powder. 

Mixing that powder with coffee grounds creates a pre-made blend that brews like regular coffee.

Liquid Extracts & Tinctures

Some companies use an extraction process to extract the most potent compounds from mushrooms. 

The result? A highly concentrated liquid extract that you can add directly to your coffee, turning any brew into a functional mushroom coffee.

According to Cleveland Clinic, adaptogens are natural compounds that help your body handle stress, improve focus, and keep your energy steady.

So, mushroom coffee isn’t just a different version of coffee; it’s an upgraded experience. 

It's a way to get the energy you love, but with extra balance and brainpower in every sip.

What is Regular Coffee?

There’s nothing quite like a strong, creamy coffee brewed just right. Some days, I take mine black. Other days, I froth up some milk and turn it into a latte or even a frappuccino, depending on my mood.

But here’s the thing, no matter how you customise it, it’s still coffee. Whether you add cream, cocoa powder, or a drizzle of caramel, the foundation remains the same: coffee beans packed with caffeine, delivering that familiar boost of energy.

When comparing Lion’s Mane mushroom coffee vs regular coffee, there’s no question that regular coffee has been around for centuries.

It’s beloved for its rich flavour, versatility, and, most importantly, its energising effects.

My morning cup felt like a power switch for my brain. With one sip, I felt sharper, more focused, and ready to take on the day. 

That’s because coffee’s magic ingredient is caffeine, a natural stimulant that fires up the nervous system.

According to a PubMed study, caffeine blocks adenosine, a neurotransmitter that makes you sleepy. This is why coffee jolts you awake and keeps you alert, focused, and productive.

However, the difference is clear when you compare the caffeine levels in regular coffee vs mushroom coffee. 

Regular coffee is 100% coffee beans, meaning you’ll get a strong caffeine kick no matter how it’s brewed. Some brewing methods extract more caffeine than others, but you’re getting pure, high-energy coffee overall.

Mushroom coffee, on the other hand, combines coffee with medicinal mushrooms like Lion’s Mane, Chaga, or Reishi, which slightly reduces the caffeine content. Instead of a jittery caffeine rush, you get a balanced energy boost with added functional benefits.

Now that I’ve covered each type of coffee, let me break down their key differences so you can see which one stands out.

Mushroom Coffee vs Regular Coffee (A Quick Comparison Table)

Features	Mushroom Coffee	Regular Coffee
Caffeine Content	Lower, mixed with mushrooms.	Purely coffee beans, high.
Health Benefits	Gentle energy boost that lasts longer.	Stronger energy boost that may lead to crashes.
Taste	Similar to regular coffee, but milder.	Bold, rich, and bitter.
Side Effects	Mild discomfort with digestion.	Jitters, crashes, and acidity.

Health Benefits (Which One Is Better for You?)

I’ve spent years drinking and comparing mushroom coffee vs regular coffee benefits, not just out of curiosity but because I wanted to truly understand them.

To do this, I asked a couple of questions and they are:

• Was one better than the other?

• Did mushroom coffee live up to its hype?

• Could it actually replace my regular brew?

So, I tried them both, switching between them, experimenting with different blends, and paying close attention to how they made me feel. 

Here’s what I discovered

Regular Coffee Benefits

In the early years of my coffee journey, speciality coffee was my go-to. It was my morning fuel, my productivity booster, my ritual.

Mornings weren’t always easy for me. I’d wake up sluggish, struggling to find the motivation to start my day. 

But everything changed when I took that first sip, especially a strong French press brew. The fatigue faded, my mind snapped into focus, and I was ready to tackle the day.

I won’t lie, the energy crashes happened. Some days, I’d feel wired for hours, only to hit a wall by mid-afternoon.

But the quick, short bursts of energy kept me alert, and I kept coming back for more.

There’s a reason regular coffee has been a favourite for centuries. It’s all about the caffeine.

In fact, a PubMed study on cyclists found that caffeine reduced fatigue and enhanced body stamina, which explains why a cup of coffee can make you feel unstoppable.

If you love that caffeine jolt that fills you with energy, we have some of the best speciality coffee beans in the UK.

My personal favourites are:

• Stability Blend (You will taste milk chocolate, hazelnut and fig flavour)

• Darkfire Energy (Dark cocoa, caramel and raisin flavour)

• And the Rotate Espresso (Has dark chocolate, and berry brownie flavour).

Mushroom Coffee Benefits

My first experience with mushroom coffee was with a Lion’s Mane blend. I had read about its brain-boosting properties in mushroom coffee benefits, and as someone who constantly juggles deep work and creativity, I wanted to see if it really lived up to the hype.

I also wondered, ‘how long does it take to feel the benefits of mushroom coffee?.

Little did I know, I was about to get all my answers pretty soon.

At first, it felt like a milder version of regular coffee. No big caffeine jolt, no sudden rush just a smooth, steady boost. It didn’t hit me all at once, but I also didn’t feel jittery or anxious. The real magic happened after two weeks.

I used to struggle with brain fog and constant distractions. But with Lion’s Mane coffee, my focus felt sharper, and I could stay locked into tasks for longer periods. 

When I compared Lion’s Mane mushroom coffee vs regular coffee, the difference was clear: Regular coffee gave me a quick hit of energy. 

Still, Lion’s Mane mushroom coffee helped me stay focused without the mental crash. My thoughts felt clearer, and I could stay locked into tasks longer.

Curious about other medicinal mushrooms, I decided to try Reishi mushroom coffee next. 

Reishi is known for its stress-relieving properties, so I mixed half a teaspoon of Reishi tincture into my regular coffee.

At first, I didn’t feel much. But, after a few weeks, I noticed a difference. The tension in my shoulders eased, and my muscles felt more relaxed.

A WebMD article explains that medicinal mushrooms like Reishi contain special compounds that reduce inflammation, which could explain the stress-relieving benefits.

Reishi does a better job if I compare reishi mushroom coffee vs regular coffee in terms of stress-relieving effects.

Next, I tried Chaga mushroom coffee, which is known for its immune-boosting properties. 

I didn't notice anything for the first few days. But by the second week, I noticed something interesting.

I had a dull ache in my joints that wouldn’t go away even after sleeping properly. And, I constantly felt sleepy.

But chaga mushroom coffee improved that. The dull ache in my joints began to fade away, and I felt less tired during the day.

What gives Chaga mushrooms their beneficial properties is the antioxidants. 

According to WebMD, Chaga mushrooms are a rich source of these biochemicals, which can decrease inflammation and strengthen the immune system.

Chaga mushrooms may help alleviate stress and reduce body fatigue by reducing inflammation.

When comparing the immunity-building properties of chaga mushroom coffee vs regular coffee, mushroom coffee helped decrease my fatigue and stress more effectively.

After this mushroom coffee, I sought a healthy supplement that boosts body energy and stamina. 

After researching the Internet, I discovered the medicinal mushroom Cordyceps, which is claimed to improve physical strength.

Would drinking coffee infused with Cordyceps mushrooms make me more active? I was curious to try it out.

Using a liquid extract of Cordyceps mushrooms, I poured about a half teaspoon into a mug of regular coffee, for a week or two.

It gave me a smooth energy flow that lasted for many hours. A cup in the morning would remove any fatigue in my body.

I also found it easier to dive into work as my attention and focus improved. 

As I entered the second week, the effects became more prominent. I could cover more work quickly, feeling only slightly tired.

Early studies in the National Library of Medicine highlight that Cordyceps mushrooms contain compounds with anti-inflammatory properties, relieving stress and body fatigue.

Comparing Cordyceps mushroom coffee vs regular coffee, I’d say Cordyceps coffee gave me a longer-lasting energy boost without crashes.

Round Winner (Which one offers better health benefits?)

When comparing mushroom coffee to regular coffee, the better choice depends on what your body needs, but mushroom coffee is my first choice.

Caffeine Content (Which One Gives a Better Boost?)

Let’s find out, shall we?

Regular coffee: Stronger caffeine kick

Regular coffee is the way to go if you’re looking for a fast, intense caffeine boost. 

Its higher caffeine content delivers an almost instant energy jolt that helps you feel awake and alert within minutes.

But there’s a trade-off. That sharp increase in energy is often followed by a hard crash, leaving you feeling drained and sluggish a few hours later.

This is why so many people reach for multiple cups throughout the day. To learn natural ways to escape the dreaded crash, read my article on how to stop caffeine crashes.

When comparing Cordyceps mushroom coffee vs regular coffee, regular coffee gave me that familiar caffeine rush, but I found myself needing another cup by mid-afternoon to stay productive.

Mushroom Coffee (Smoother Energy Boost)

Mushroom coffee has less caffeine than regular coffee, which means the energy boost feels different. Instead of an immediate jolt, it delivers a steady, controlled rise in energy that lasts for hours without the sudden crash.

With lower caffeine and added adaptogens, mushroom coffee helps your body adapt to stress while providing sustained energy

This makes it a great choice for anyone looking to avoid the ups and downs of traditional coffee.

Winner of This Round (Which is better for energy and focus?)

If you need a strong, immediate energy boost, regular coffee wins. But mushroom coffee comes on top if you prefer steady, long-lasting energy without jitters or crashes.

Taste Comparison (Which One Tastes Better?)

Regular Coffee (Bold, bitter, acidic flavours)

When comparing the taste of mushroom coffee vs regular coffee, the first thing to note is that regular coffee has a strong, bold flavour.

Depending on the roast level and brewing method, it can have:

• Dark chocolate and nutty notes in medium-dark roasts

• Fruity, floral, or citrusy undertones in light roasts

• Smoky, caramelised flavours in dark roasts

Regular coffee is also naturally bitter and acidic, which gives it that sharp, intense kick that coffee lovers crave. 

Some people enjoy the acidity as it adds complexity, while others find it too harsh, especially on an empty stomach.

Mushroom coffee: Earthy, mild, smooth flavour

Mushroom coffee has a milder and smoother taste than organic coffee beans. The mushrooms help neutralise some of the bitterness and acidity, making it gentler on the palate. 

While it tastes like coffee, a subtle earthy undertone often balances the flavour, this makes it a great option for those who find regular coffee too acidic or harsh.

With the right blend, mushroom coffee can still deliver the richness of coffee, just with a smoother finish and without overpowering mushroom flavours.

Winner of This Round (Which One Is More Enjoyable to Drink?)

If you love strong, bold flavours, regular coffee is the winner and you can get the best organic coffee beans here. 

But mushroom coffee is better if you prefer a smoother, gentler taste that’s easier on the stomach.

Side Effects (The Good and the Bad)

Let’s find out.

Regular Coffee (Jitters, Acidity, and Energy Crashes)

Before switching to mushroom coffee, I drank three to four cups daily and my body felt the consequences.

• Acid Reflux and heartburn - Regular coffee's high acidity causes constant digestive discomfort, making meals unpleasant.

• Jitters & Restlessness - A few hours after my morning French press, my body felt wired, like I was running on overdrive.

• Energy Crashes - One moment, I’d be laser-focused; the next, I’d hit a wall of exhaustion, needing another cup to keep going.

The caffeine highs and lows were a cycle I couldn’t escape; over time, it started to wear me down.

Mushroom Coffee (Potential, mild digestive issues)

Switching to mushroom coffee changed the game.

• No More Acid Reflux – The lower acidity made it much easier on my stomach.

• No Jitters – I still got an energy boost without the anxious, overstimulated feeling.

• No Energy Crashes – The energy was steady and lasted for hours without fading fast.

The only minor downside? Occasionally, I noticed mild digestive discomfort, but it was nothing compared to the intense acidity and crashes I experienced with regular coffee.

Winner of This Round (Which One Has Fewer Drawbacks?)

Mushroom coffee wins this round. It provides a steady energy boost with fewer side effects, making it the better choice for those sensitive to caffeine or acidity.

Cost & Availability (Which One Is More Affordable?)

Let’s find out.

Regular coffee (More affordable and widely available)

When comparing mushroom coffee vs regular coffee in terms of affordability and availability, regular coffee is the clear winner. 

You can find it at various prices at grocery stores, coffee shops, and online retailers. A bag of quality coffee beans costs much less than a similar quantity of mushroom coffee.

Mushroom coffee (Higher price, fewer purchase options)

Mushroom coffee is more expensive due to the added medicinal mushrooms. It’s also harder to find, often limited to specialty stores and online brands.

Winner of This Round (Which one offers better value?)

If budget and accessibility matter, regular coffee wins. But for unique benefits, mushroom coffee may be worth the extra cost.

What I Like (PROS & CONS)

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the pros and cons of mushroom coffee and regular coffee that I found.

Mushroom Coffee: What I Like (PROS)

• When comparing mushroom coffee vs regular coffee, mushroom coffee provides a steady energy boost without jitters or crashes.

• It’s easier on the stomach because of the lower caffeine content.

• Plus, medicinal mushrooms offer extra benefits like immune support and stress relief.

Mushroom Coffee: What I Don't Like (CONS)

• The earthy taste isn’t for everyone, 

• Mushroom coffee doesn’t provide the strong punch of regular coffee. 

• Mushroom coffee is harder to find at local stores compared to regular coffee.

Regular Coffee: What I Like (PROS)

• When you compare the caffeine kick of mushroom coffee vs regular coffee, regular coffee takes the lead. 

• A cup of regular coffee gives a rich, bold flavour, making it so addicting. 

• You can find it almost everywhere, and it's affordable. 

• Plus, you can brew it as you want, from an espresso to a frappuccino. 

Regular Coffee: What I Don't Like (CONS)

• It can cause jitters, crashes, and stomach discomfort due to high acidity. 

• Hundreds of acres of forests are cut down just to grow large-scale coffee, causing a devastating impact on our environment. 

People Also Ask (FAQs)

Let’s answer your questions, shall we?

Does mushroom coffee taste like mushrooms?

No, mushroom coffee doesn’t taste like mushrooms. Its mild, earthy flavour blends with coffee’s natural taste. The mushroom extracts balance the bitterness, making it smoother and less acidic than regular coffee.

Can mushroom coffee replace regular coffee?

Yes, mushroom coffee can be a great alternative to regular coffee, especially for those looking to reduce caffeine intake or avoid jitters. However, regular coffee may still be the better option if you love a strong caffeine kick.

Is mushroom coffee healthier than regular coffee?

Mushroom coffee offers added health benefits, such as immune support, reduced stress, and better digestion. And, if you compare mushroom coffee vs regular coffee, the lower caffeine content makes mushroom coffee easier on the stomach. 

But, regular coffee does have its unique benefits, like antioxidants and improved alertness.

Does mushroom coffee still contain caffeine?

When comparing mushroom coffee vs regular coffee, there’s a noticeable difference in caffeine content. Mushroom coffee has less caffeine than regular coffee. The exact amount depends on the blend, but it typically provides a gentler energy boost without the intense crashes or jitters.

Can you mix mushroom coffee with regular coffee?

Yes, you can mix mushroom coffee with regular coffee to balance flavour and caffeine levels. This combination offers a smoother taste and provides some benefits from medicinal mushrooms while maintaining a strong caffeine kick.

Is mushroom coffee better than real coffee? 

It depends on your preference. Mushroom coffee is gentler on the stomach and offers health benefits, while regular coffee provides a bolder taste and higher caffeine content. 

Mushroom coffee might be better if you prefer a smooth, low-acid option with functional benefits.

Is mushroom coffee healthier for you?

Mushroom coffee contains medicinal mushrooms like Lion’s Mane and Reishi, which support immunity and brain health. It’s lower in caffeine and acidity than regular coffee, making it a healthier option for those with digestive issues or caffeine sensitivity.

What are the disadvantages of mushroom coffee?

Mushroom coffee can be more expensive and harder to find than regular coffee. Some people may not enjoy its mild, earthy taste. Also, while it provides a steady energy boost, it lacks the strong caffeine kick of traditional coffee.

Does mushroom coffee actually reduce bloating?

Yes, mushroom coffee is lower in acidity and may reduce bloating compared to regular coffee. This means that mushroom coffee can actually reduce bloating, as opposed to regular coffee, which can aggravate bloating.

Conclusion (Which One Should You Choose)?

So, one last time, mushroom coffee vs. regular coffee: What’s the best choice? I’d say it all depends on your needs. 

Regular coffee delivers a strong caffeine boost and bold flavour, while mushroom coffee offers steady energy, lower acidity, and many other health benefits.

If you want high energy, go for regular coffee. For a gentler, healthier option, choose mushroom coffee.

Click here to start drinking mushroom coffee to improve your health and focus.