Internet current obsession with cortisol has given rise to a trendy new concoction dubbed the “cortisol cocktail” that users say can reduce stress and even help with weight loss.
Also called an “adrenal cocktail,” the drink has a few variations on social media, but primarily consists of orange or lemon juice, coconut water, and a little sea salt.
Experts say there’s no evidence that this drink can significantly reduce stress or weight by lowering cortisol levels, but the ingredients offer some nutritional benefits that may give drinkers a boost.
“As soon as I saw the ingredients, I thought, this looks remarkably like a sports drink you mix together,” said Lindsay Malone, an integrative and functional medicine dietitian and nutrition instructor at Case University. Western Reserve, to CBS News. “Juice, sodium, a little potassium, so a little sugar, electrolytes in a liquid…I’m just wondering if some of the benefits aren’t just related to the fact that in general people are dehydrated and so can have a little blood sugar boost and then also some electrolytes to rehydrate them. Maybe that’s part of the appeal of it.
What is cortisol?
“Cortisol is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands in response to stress and plays a key role in regulating metabolism, inflammation, blood sugar and even sleep-wake cycles,” said Avery Zenker, registered dietitian.
Cortisol often gets a bad rap, she says, but it’s essential for survival.
“The key is to balance it effectively rather than trying to eliminate it. Cortisol levels should naturally change and evolve throughout the day, ideally peaking in the morning to help us feel awake and ready starting, and decrease in the evening when it’s time to sleep,” Zender said.
Since hormone levels are constantly changing, the idea of a “hormonal imbalance” is rather misleading, said Christine Byrne, registered dietitian and owner of Ruby Oak Nutrition.
“If you think there is something wrong with your hormone levels, it is so important to seek help from an endocrinologist instead of trying to do your own research to diagnose and treat yourself “Byrne said. “Many influencers and wellness companies prey on people with hard-to-diagnose symptoms by attributing those symptoms to vague issues like hormonal imbalance or adrenal fatigue, then selling a supposed solution. But the Most of this information is neither evidence-based nor thoroughly tested.
Does Adrenal Cocktail Recipe Lower Cortisol Levels?
“The cortisol cocktail is one of those wellness trends that may seem appealing to people who are looking for a solution to a difficult health problem like stress, but there’s simply no support behind it” , Byrne said.
So while people shouldn’t view the mix as a miracle cure for stress or weight loss, Malone said the drink is harmless to try and contains ingredients that have some nutritional benefits.
For example, orange juice contains vitamin C which helps support the immune system, coconut water is hydrating and contains potassium (as does cream of tartar, another ingredient often found in the mix), and Sea salt can replenish sodium levels when electrolytes are low.
But you can get these benefits in other ways, like whole foods, which may have additional benefits. Fruit juices and coconut water, for example, are high in sugar and lacking in fiber compared to whole fruits, Zenker said.
Most people get enough sodium, Malone said, but potassium can be found in fruits and vegetables and magnesium, another electrolyte, is found in whole grains and legumes.
How to reduce stress, lose weight
Although stress can influence weight and body composition, it’s important to remember that several factors come into play when it comes to reducing stress or losing weight – and not just through a daily dose. a “cortisol cocktail” or another fashionable panacea.
“For most people, the bottom line is not moving enough and eating too many calories,” Malone said of losing weight.
And the best way to maintain healthy cortisol levels? A balanced approach, Zenker said, includes a nutritious diet, regular exercise, good hydration, quality sleep and stress management.
“For most people, focusing on these things is more important than making a specific drink,” she said.
