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The internet is buzzing about the benefits of the so-called “cortisol mocktail,” with fans claiming the viral tonic can reduce the stress hormone and bring the body into balance.
And folks, we can use it — 73% of Americans say that stress has an impact on their quality of life, and nearly half of us admit to suffering from burnout.
But can the fruity ingredients really help your hormones and relieve stress? The Post asked a dietitian to spill the (calming) tea.
TikTokker @tennesseegirlx shared the viral recipe, racking up one million views and loads of comments on that app.
She said she drinks it several times a week to reduce cortisol, which “causes a lot of the issues with menopause.”
It includes:
- 1 cup coconut water
- Juice of 1/2 a lemon
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 200 mg magnesium
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
- sparkling water
Cortisol is released when stress hits, triggering that familiar “fight, flight, or freeze” response. It helps regulate key functions throughout the body, including the reproductive, immune and endocrine systems.
Helpful in short bursts, too much too often can cause a host of physical problems, including but not limited to bloating, vision changes, hair loss, muscle tension, exhaustion and dreaded “moon face.”
Cortisol can also elevate blood pressure and promote inflammation within blood vessels.
The lauded cortisol mocktail is designed to boost energy and ease stress — and while there are benefits, one expert says there are also limits to how much power the punch can pack.
“While a drink cannot ‘lower cortisol’ by itself, it could support the body’s ability to do so naturally,” Maura Donovan, registered dietitian and Medical Education Specialist, Sports Nutrition at Thorne, told the Post.
“The combination of ingredients can help replenish electrolytes, which can be depleted due to high cortisol levels, and promote relaxation to keep it in check.”
She notes that excessive stress, irregular sleep patterns, and inflammation can all contribute to an unhealthy spike in cortisol levels.
“Consequently, one might experience anxiousness, fatigue, irritability, difficulty concentrating and sleeping, muscle tension, discomfort or weakness, and digestive issues.”
When the body’s cortisol levels are high, Donovan notes, the hormone can act as a diuretic — and the cortisol mocktail can help restore what’s been lost.
“When mixed, this concoction can support hydration and relaxation by replenishing key minerals,” she said.
And each of these ingredients offers unique value.
“Coconut water provides a hydrating base that offers electrolytes like potassium, as well as small amounts of magnesium and sodium,” she explained.
Vitamin C in the lemon and orange juices aids adrenal function, while sea salt supports cellular hydration and fluid balance.
“Added magnesium is an essential mineral involved in hundreds of biochemical reactions in the body, particularly those related to sleep and stress regulation,” she went on. :It also helps convert tryptophan, a vital amino acid, into serotonin — a precursor to melatonin (the sleep hormone).”
Donovan added that magnesium helps relax both smooth and skeletal muscles, crucial for unwinding at the end of the day. To that end, she recommends cueing up the mocktail before turning in.
“While any time of day offers the same benefits, people may opt for this drink before bedtime, given that magnesium can support restful sleep,” she said.
For those looking for additional ways to reduce stress, Donovan has a few key recommendations, including taking supplements formulated for stress,
“Ginseng is known to help the body adapt to stress while also supporting cognitive functions like focus and memory. Additionally, supplements that promote healthy adrenal gland function can be key to managing stress,” she said.
Beyond supplements, exercise, spending time in nature and meditation stand out as the most effective ways to mitigate stress and lower cortisol levels. Adopting a balanced, nutritious diet and steering clear of smoking, alcohol consumption, or recreational drug use are also fundamental steps to reduce stress.
Experts agree that if you feel that stress is having a substantial impact on your health and overall quality of life, it’s wise to seek guidance from a healthcare professional.
