When was the last time you kicked back and enjoyed a refreshing mocktail after a long workday? If you can’t remember, it’s definitely time to carve out some time for your own mocktail hour—and here’s why. People on TikTok are raving about "adrenal mocktails" to help reduce stress, and according to experts, they really work! We talked to the pros to get the scoop on adrenal mocktails and their benefits.
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, also known as Becca, a hormone nutritionist, shared in a video, "If you feel like you're exhausted all the time, dragging yourself through the day … and just don't have the energy you used to, this video is for you. This isn't a 'you' problem; it's 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 and replenish the minerals burned through during times of stress … you need to replenish, otherwise, your adrenals start to slow down."
Becca’s preferred adrenal mocktail recipe includes four ounces of orange juice, coconut water, and a pinch of sea salt. She mentioned that she makes this mocktail whenever she experiences an energy slump during the day.
Adrenal mocktails are typically loaded with nutrients like vitamin C, potassium, and sodium, designed to help manage stress, support adrenal gland function, and maintain 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, and member of our Medical Expert Board.
So, how do adrenal glands relate to stress? These small glands, located on top of your kidneys, produce hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline, which play a key role in managing your body's stress response.
How Can Adrenal Mocktails Ease Stress and Promote Better Sleep?
"Adrenal mocktail advocates believe that the drink helps ease stress by supplying nutrients that support the adrenal glands, which are crucial for regulating heart rate, energy levels, electrolyte balance, and blood pressure," explains Dorsey Standish, MS, a mechanical engineer, neuroscientist, wellness expert, and CEO of Mastermind Meditate.
The combination of vitamins and minerals in an adrenal mocktail can help balance cortisol levels and create a calming 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, you can enjoy your adrenal cocktail along with a meal or snack containing fiber and protein to optimize digestion speed and prevent a blood sugar spike from high-sugar ingredients like orange juice," says Standish.
However, it’s important to note that the sugar and potassium content in adrenal mocktails might not be suitable for everyone. If you're on a weight-loss journey, have a kidney condition, or are managing diabetes, it's best to consult your healthcare provider to ensure your adrenal mocktail recipe supports your health.