When was the last time you unwound with a refreshing mocktail after a tiring day at work? If you can’t recall, it might be high time to set aside a moment for your personal mocktail hour – and the payoff could be significant. Over on TikTok, individuals are concocting and indulging in “adrenal mocktails” in an effort to reduce stress, and professionals claim these beverages are indeed effective! We reached out to experts for an in-depth understanding of adrenal mocktails and their advantages.
What Is an Adrenal Mocktail?
If we’ve piqued your curiosity about adrenal mocktails, you may wonder why they’re making waves on social media.
TikToker @nourishedwithbecca, Becca, a hormone nutritionist, explained in a video, “If you feel like you’re exhausted all of the time, you’re dragging yourself throughout the day … and you just don’t have the energy to do what you used to do, this video is for you … this is not a ‘you’ problem; this is a fuel problem. It’s [a] sign that you’re running on empty and your adrenals need some support. [An adrenal mocktail is] my go-to tool to help support [my] adrenals, help replenish the minerals that [I] burn through during times of stress … you need to replenish, otherwise your adrenals start to slow down.”
Becca’s go-to adrenal mocktail recipe consists of four ounces of orange juice, coconut water, and a pinch of sea salt. She pointed out in the clip that she whips up this mocktail whenever she feels an energy dip during the day.
Adrenal mocktails are typically packed with nutrients such as vitamin C, potassium, and sodium, a recipe intending to keep stress levels at bay, reinforce your adrenal gland function, and support balanced hydration.
“An adrenal mocktail is a drink typically made with ingredients like orange juice, coconut water, and sea salt,” explains Amy Goodson, MS, RD, CSSD, LD, a registered dietitian and certified specialist in sports dietetics who sits on our Medical Expert Board.
Now, how do your adrenal glands relate to stress? Adrenal glands are tiny glands situated on top of your kidneys. They produce certain hormones, such as cortisol and adrenaline, which help manage your body’s stress response.
How Can Adrenal Mocktails Ease Stress and Promote a Better Night’s Sleep?
“Adrenal mocktail advocates maintain that the drink helps ease stress by providing nutrients to support the adrenal glands, which perform critical functions like regulating heart rate, energy level, electrolyte balance, and blood pressure,” explains Dorsey Standish, MS, a mechanical engineer, neuroscientist, wellness expert, and CEO of Mastermind Meditate.
Combining these vitamins and minerals in an adrenal mocktail can help balance your cortisol levels and promote a soothing effect.
“There is no scientific evidence that adrenal cocktails can improve adrenal function, but for most people, they can’t do any harm … Even if you don’t have a preexisting health condition, enjoy your adrenal cocktail along with a meal or snack containing fiber and protein to optimize digestion speed and avoid a spike in blood sugar from high-sugar ingredients like orange juice,” says Standish.
It’s important to note that the sugar and potassium content in adrenal mocktails may be problematic for certain individuals. If you’re on a weight-loss journey, dealing with a kidney condition, or have diabetes, it’s wise to check in with your healthcare provider to ensure your adrenal mocktail recipe can best support your well-being.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are adrenal mocktails?
Adrenal mocktails are non-alcoholic beverages specifically crafted with ingredients believed to support adrenal health and reduce stress levels. These drinks are designed to provide a natural and healthy alternative to traditional cocktails.
What are some common ingredients found in adrenal mocktails?
Common ingredients found in adrenal mocktails include adaptogenic herbs like ashwagandha and holy basil, calming herbs like chamomile and lavender, fruits rich in vitamin C like oranges and berries, as well as ingredients like coconut water and herbal teas known for their calming properties.
How do adrenal mocktails help lower stress?
Adrenal mocktails help lower stress through the use of ingredients known for their adaptogenic and calming properties. Adaptogens like ashwagandha and holy basil are believed to help the body adapt to stress and balance cortisol levels, while calming herbs like chamomile and lavender promote relaxation and reduce anxiety.
Are adrenal mocktails safe to consume regularly?
As with any dietary choices, it is important to consume adrenal mocktails in moderation and be aware of any potential allergies or interactions with medications. It’s always a good idea to consult with a healthcare provider or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet, including regularly consuming adrenal mocktails.
