To Hack or Not To Hack | Adaptogenic Coffee
A grounded look at the mushroom-fueled brew that’s trending hard in wellness circles.
Welcome back to To Hack or Not to Hack, the Vango Wellness series where I unpack the most hyped health trends and break down the real science (and practicality) behind them. My mission? To uncomplicate wellness and help you choose what actually supports your health—without the overwhelm.
This week, I’m pouring into a trend that’s part coffee, part functional mushroom, and all over your Instagram feed: adaptogenic coffee. From lion’s mane lattes to ashwagandha brews, this “balanced buzz” promises energy without the crash, clarity without the caffeine jitters, and stress support in every sip.
But… does it deliver? And is it worth the hype—or the price tag?
What is Adaptogenic Coffee?
Adaptogenic coffee blends traditional coffee beans with adaptogens—natural substances like medicinal mushrooms (e.g., lion’s mane, chaga, reishi) and herbs (e.g., ashwagandha, maca). These ingredients are believed to help the body adapt to stress and promote balance. The result is a beverage that aims to provide the energy boost of coffee with added wellness benefits.
When Did It Become a Trend?
While adaptogens have deep roots in traditional systems like Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine, their appearance in your daily latte is a newer wellness evolution. Brands like Four Sigmatic and Clevr Blends popularized the adaptogenic coffee movement around 2021–2022. And with celebrity endorsements (hi, Meghan Markle), the trend shot straight into the mainstream.
☕ Why People Make the Switch?
For many, the shift to adaptogenic coffee is less about mushrooms and more about how coffee makes them feel. The appeal isn’t just wellness marketing—it’s the promise of better balance.
Reduced jitters and crashes: Adaptogens like reishi or ashwagandha may help balance coffee’s intensity.
Stress support: Many turn to adaptogens for burnout, brain fog, and nervous system regulation.
Better Focus, Less Anxiety: Ingredients like lion’s mane are believed to enhance cognitive clarity, while calming herbs offset the anxious edge caffeine can bring.
More “functional” routine: The idea of stacking brain and stress benefits into a morning brew makes it feel like a smarter choice.
📈 Let’s dive into The Science Behind Adaptogens
Adaptogens work by helping regulate the HPA axis (hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal) and moderating the stress response. Here's a quick snapshot of some science-backed favorites:
Ashwagandha: A 2021 meta-analysis of seven randomized trials found significant reductions in stress and cortisol levels at doses of 240–1250 mg daily.
Rhodiola Rosea: Linked to reduced fatigue and better focus in people experiencing burnout and low mood.
Reishi: Believed to support immune regulation and relaxation (though most evidence is preclinical).
Lion’s Mane: May enhance nerve growth factor (NGF) and support memory and cognitive performance.
While results are promising, many studies are small or preliminary. That doesn’t mean they don’t work—it just means we need more research to confirm how and for whom. Truth is, they’ve been used in Ayurveda for ages.
🌿 Is There an alternative to Adaptogenic Coffee?
Yes! If coffee isn’t your thing—or you’d prefer more control over your adaptogen dosage —try:
Try caffeine-free adaptogenic teas or mushroom-based elixirs = Cut caffeine completely.
Use powders or tinctures in smoothies or hot drinks for more customization = Control your adaptogen dose.
Supplements: Capsules or tablets provide a controlled dosage, though it's essential to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen.
Or , if you like coffee but want the benefits not the adaptogens, try
Fermented Coffee brings many benefits including: gut health due to fermentation, reduced acidity, enhanced antioxidant levels, smoother energy boost. Try Intandem Coffee.
Remember: you don’t have to put mushrooms in your coffee to get adaptogen benefits. You can create your own routine that works with your rhythm, not against it.
At Vango Wellness, I often incorporate adaptogens like reishi or ashwagandha into my smoothies when I’m navigating high-stress weeks or need a focused lift.
How to Choose the Right Product
Selecting a high-quality adaptogen product is crucial for safety and efficacy. Here are some guidelines:
Third-Party Testing: Opt for products that have been tested by independent labs to verify their purity and potency .
Standardized Extracts: Look for supplements that specify the concentration of active compounds, such as "5% withanolides" in ashwagandha, to ensure consistent potency.
Organic and Non-GMO: Choose products that are certified organic and free from genetically modified organisms to reduce exposure to pesticides and other harmful chemicals.
Transparent Labeling: Ensure the product label clearly lists all ingredients and their respective dosages.
Avoid blends with tons of fillers or added sugar.
Reputable Brands: Purchase from well-known companies that adhere to good manufacturing practices and have positive reviews.
TO HACK OR NOT TO HACK?
✔️ To Hack with intention
If you're replacing your regular coffee and genuinely want the benefits of smoother energy, nervous system support, and a gentler start to the day? Adaptogenic coffee could be a great fit. However, it's crucial to:
Assess Your Needs: Understand your body's response to caffeine and adaptogens.
Choose Quality Products: Opt for reputable brands that provide transparency about their ingredients and sourcing.
Monitor Effects: Pay attention to how your body reacts and adjust accordingly.
But you don’t need it to reap adaptogen benefits. It’s simply one delicious, functional way to work them in. Choose it because it works for your lifestyle—not because it’s trending.
The fusion of adaptogens with coffee is partly driven by convenience and marketing. Combining the stimulating effects of caffeine with the calming properties of adaptogens creates a balanced beverage appealing to health-conscious consumers in a ready-to-drink format.
At Vango Wellness, I believe in personalized wellness. So if you’re curious about incorporating adaptogens in a way that feels aligned, simple, and sustainable for your life, I’ve got you.
📩 Book a 1:1 session with me and let’s create a wellness routine that makes sense for your body and rhythm—mushrooms optional.
📅 Don’t miss next week’s To Hack or Not to Hack—I’m diving into electrolyte powders and whether your fancy hydration stack is actually necessary. You’ll want to sip on this one.
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Your healthiest, most vibrant life starts with the choices you make today!
While I'm not an expert in adaptogens, I can attest to the personal benefits I've experienced. Since incorporating mushroom coffee into my routine, I've observed a noticeable reduction in the frequency of my migraines.