According to a 2022 coffee survey, about 3 in 4 Americans drink coffee every day, and about 48% of coffee drinkers will drink 3 to 5 cups of coffee a day! While this popular morning and afternoon go-to drink has many health benefits, there are many reasons why others choose not to drink it.
For some, the high levels of caffeine in coffee can cause a myriad of physical and mental issues. Some cups of coffee (especially cheap pantry brands) may increase digestive issues and headaches. Caffeine in coffee can also increase your anxiety and negatively impact your quality of sleep if consumed too close to bedtime.
So many of us rely on that caffeine kick to get us through the day, but with these concerning health issues, maybe an increase in caffeine isn’t the answer. That’s why VitaCup created Shroom Fuel, a healthier coffee alternative that can give you the same energy with less caffeine. If you’re wondering how our 100% organic Shroom Fuel works, you’re not alone. We asked your burning questions to the woman who designed the product herself, our Registered Dietitian, Brianna Harris.
Read how Shroom Fuel works and feel the difference for yourself today!
Q: Hi, Brianna! Can you tell us more about Shroom Fuel and how we can drink it?
A: Of course! Shroom Fuel is the first ever VitaCup coffee alternative made with USDA organic ingredients. I created this product so coffee lovers and non-coffee drinkers can harness natural energy and focus without consuming too much caffeine. Each serving contains organic Cacao, Maca Root, Ceylon Cinnamon, Chaga, Lion’s Mane, and essential B Vitamins.
Sip on Shroom Fuel and experience a lightly sweet, chocolatey aroma and flavor with a subtle hint of cinnamon. I highly recommend preparing Shroom Fuel like any regular cup of coffee. Just add one packet to 8oz of hot water, add in your favorite sweetener or creamer of choice and enjoy!
Q: How does cacao energize you the same as coffee?
A: Traditionally, people consume coffee or tea throughout the day for energy from caffeine. Cacao is an alternative beverage that only contains a small amount of caffeine (< 5 mg per instant stick) but contains other molecules, like theobromine, that provide the body with energy.
Theobromine is an alkaloid compound (meaning a nitrogen-atom-containing chemical) that resembles caffeine and has similar effects, including stimulating the heart, widening blood vessels, and potentially improving one’s mood. While it’s not as strong of a stimulant compared to caffeine, it does have some stimulant effects. Cacao also contains flavanols, which have antioxidant benefits.
Q: What mushrooms did you pick for this coffee alternative, and why?
A: I chose Chaga and Lion’s Mane mushrooms for our infused mushroom blend for Shroom Fuel. Chaga is a type of fungi that has been used for years to improve overall wellness. This superfood contains adaptogenic qualities and antioxidant properties to fight against free radical damage.
Resembling the mane of a lion which is where this mushroom gets its name, Lion’s Mane mushroom is used for its many beneficial bioactive compounds like beta-glucans, antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. I also chose Lion’s Mane for a natural focus boost from nootropics.
Q: Can you tell us more about adaptogens and nootropics?
A: It’d be my pleasure! Adaptogens are active ingredients in certain plants and mushrooms that may impact how your body deals with stress, anxiety, and fatigue. The goal of taking adaptogens is to return your body back to a state of balance (homeostasis). The herbal action in adaptogens increases or decreases chemical reactions within your body.
For example, if you’re stressed (elevated cortisol), an adaptogen may respond by reducing cortisol levels. If you experience chronic fatigue with low cortisol levels, an adaptogen may increase the level of cortisol in your body.
Natural nootropics are cognitive enhancers due to the fact that they are proven to boost brain function, especially regarding energy, focus, and memory. They may increase blood circulation and oxygen flow to the brain, which is beneficial for brain health since the brain depends on a continuous supply of oxygen and nutrients to function correctly.
Q: Why did you add Maca Root and Ceylon Cinnamon?
A: We added Maca Root and Ceylon Cinnamon for their nutrient-dense and antioxidant properties. Native to the Andean Region, Maca Root has been cultivated for centuries for its beneficial bioactive compounds.
Compared to Cassia Cinnamon, Ceylon Cinnamon is also known as “true cinnamon.” We used Ceylon because it’s considered more delicate in flavor and contains lower levels of coumarin, making it safer to consume in larger quantities.
Q: What are bioactive compounds? Why should we care about them?
A: Good question! Bioactive compounds are beneficial chemicals found in foods and, when consumed, promote good health. Bioactive compounds have gained traction due to their role in preventing chronic diseases.
Shroom Fuel contains many bioactive compounds from Cacao, Cinnamon, Maca, Lion's Mane, and Chaga. An example is the flavonoids that are naturally in Cacao and have been studied for their benefits in lowering blood pressure and fighting cell damage.
Q: How does the natural energy work so that you can still sleep at night?
A: The natural energy sources in Shroom Fuel are considered non-stimulant cellular energy sources. They provide the body with natural energy by enhancing fuel supply, boosting metabolism, and providing a nootropic effect on the body. Since they are non-stimulating, they will not interact with your sleep like other psychostimulants might do, such as coffee.
