If you’re looking for a healthier way to start your day, chances are you’ve heard about matcha and mushroom coffee. These two superfood drinks have taken over the wellness scene, offering energy, focus, and health benefits without the downsides of traditional coffee.
But which one is right for you? Do you go for matcha’s slow-releasing, zen-like energy or mushroom coffee’s brain-boosting benefits? After trying both, I can tell you—they’re very different experiences. So let’s break it down and help you decide which one fits your lifestyle best.
Matcha: The Green Powerhouse
What is Matcha?
Matcha is basically green tea on steroids. Instead of steeping tea leaves and tossing them, matcha is a powder made from whole tea leaves, so you get all the antioxidants, vitamins, and nutrients in one sip.
Matcha’s been a big deal in Japan for centuries, used in tea ceremonies and as a daily wellness ritual. Today, you’ll find it in lattes, smoothies, and even desserts—but it’s more than just a trendy drink.
Why Matcha is Amazing
✅ Smoother Energy Than Coffee – It has caffeine, but thanks to L-theanine, it releases gradually, keeping you calm and focused without the jitters.
✅ Loaded with Antioxidants – Matcha is packed with catechins, which help fight inflammation and support heart health.
✅ Metabolism Boosting – Studies suggest it can help burn fat and improve endurance, which is why it’s often found in fitness supplements.
What It Tastes Like
Matcha has a grassy, slightly sweet, and earthy flavor. Some love it, while others say it’s an acquired taste. If you’re new to matcha, try it in a latte with honey or vanilla for a smoother introduction.
Best Matcha Picks
- Jade Leaf Organic Ceremonial Matcha – Great for pure matcha lovers.
- MatchaBar Premium Blend – Perfect for matcha lattes.
Mushroom Coffee: The Earthy Brain Booster
What is Mushroom Coffee?
I know, I know—mushrooms in coffee? It sounds weird at first. But before you write it off, let’s talk about why so many people are switching to it.
Mushroom coffee isn’t just ground mushrooms—it’s a blend of regular coffee and medicinal mushroom extracts, like Lion’s Mane, Chaga, and Reishi. These mushrooms have been used in traditional medicine for centuries for their brain-boosting, immune-supporting, and stress-reducing benefits.
Why Mushroom Coffee is Awesome
✅ Caffeine Without the Jitters – Most mushroom coffee has less caffeine than regular coffee, so you get an energy boost without the crash.
✅ Brain Power Boost – Lion’s Mane is known for supporting memory, focus, and mental clarity—great for long workdays or gaming marathons.
✅ Immune Support & Stress Relief – Chaga and Reishi mushrooms help reduce inflammation and support the immune system.
What It Tastes Like
Surprisingly, it still tastes like coffee! It’s just a little earthier and smoother, with less acidity. If you love a dark roast, you might actually prefer it.
Best Mushroom Coffee Picks
- Four Sigmatic Mushroom Coffee – The OG of mushroom coffee brands.
- RYZE Mushroom Coffee – A blend of six medicinal mushrooms for full-body benefits.
Matcha vs. Mushroom Coffee: Which One is Right for You?
If you’re still on the fence, here’s a quick cheat sheet to help you decide:
Choose Matcha If…
✅ You want long-lasting, jitter-free energy
✅ You love green tea flavors and smooth lattes
✅ You want tons of antioxidants and metabolism-boosting benefits
Choose Mushroom Coffee If…
✅ You need better focus and brain function
✅ You want a lower-caffeine option without energy crashes
✅ You like the taste of coffee but want less acidity
Or… Try Both!
For the best of both worlds, you can even get mushroom matcha, like RYZE Mushroom Matcha—combining the calm energy of matcha with the cognitive boost of mushrooms.
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, both matcha and mushroom coffee are great alternatives to regular coffee—it all depends on your taste and what kind of benefits you’re looking for.
If you want a clean, steady energy boost with antioxidants, go for matcha. If you need better focus and less caffeine, mushroom coffee might be your new go-to.