Cortisol Cocktail-What is it?

There’s a viral drink recipe on TikTok claiming to lower cortisol, restore energy, relieve tension, and balance hormones- it’s called the “Cortisol Cocktail”. It’s a non-alcoholic drink that Influencers promote for stress relief and weight loss, but most experts, health coaches and professionals are skeptical. What exactly is it? Here’s what I know, and it’s not all bad…

What is Cortisol?

First off, cortisol is a stress hormone secreted by the adrenals that has helpful effects short-term, while chronic elevated output can have damaging long-term effects.

Short-term stress is related to “fight or flight” mode which is beneficial when we’re in immediate life threatening situations. It creates a rapid cortisol spike followed by a subsequent return to normal.

Long-term stress however, creates chronic stress (elevated cortisol) that eventually leads to exhaustion and harmful health effects.

The influencers on TikTok/Instagram suggest to consume the cocktail in the morning to boost energy, mood, and hormonal balance, especially if you’ve been dealing with stress, fatigue, or burnout. Yet, some experts believe there are certain risks with some recipes that are high in sodium and sugar-potentially raising blood pressure or increasing the risk of type 2 diabetes.

The Science Behind the Drink

Even though there is no scientific evidence that this drink can significantly reduce stress or weight by lowering cortisol levels, the Cortisol Cocktail can offer nutritional benefits-with the right recipe.

Each ingredient has health-supporting benefits: Coconut water promotes hydration which can boost energy, sodium is an essential mineral in maintaining fluids, nerve function and muscle activity, magnesium glycinate supports blood sugar regulation, and may reduce anxiety/stress, lemon and orange juice are good for immune system support.

Keep in mind, a Cortisol Cocktail is not a magic elixir-implementing effective stress management techniques are critical to lowering cortisol levels. Techniques such as: mindfulness, proper sleep, maintaining a healthy diet, engaging in regular physical activity, incorporating breathing exercises or meditation, even socializing are strategies that can help reduce stress and improve overall well-being. It’s a lifestyle change and one with long term results!

BeHealthYoga Cortisol Cocktail Recipe

Keeping stress management in mind, if you’re curious to experiment with the Cortisol Cocktail, I’ve created a version of this non-alcoholic drink that contains less sugar and salt and may be more helpful in the evening as it could actually promote better sleep. Recipe Here.

If you are experiencing chronic stress, fatigue, body aches, muscle weakness, weight gain, or osteoporosis you may be experiencing high cortisol levels. To diagnose, a doctor/naturopath can order blood tests to measure cortisol levels, and I can help you balance those levels through my nutrition program.