Cortisol cocktail
The cortisol cocktail (also known as an adrenal cocktail) is a drink popularized on social media, typically promoted for stress relief and to combat the pseudoscientific concept of adrenal fatigue.[1][2][3] The drink became viral on TikTok in 2023,[4] and proponents purported the drink could lower levels of the stress hormone cortisol, as well as restoring energy and relieving tension.[5][6] There is a lack of evidence to support these claims.[7] Despite being called a cocktail, it is non-alcoholic.[8]
Ingredients
[edit]Recipes for the cortisol cocktail generally include:[1][5][8]
- Fruit juice (commonly orange and variably with lemon juice)
- Coconut water
- Salt
- Magnesium powder (optional)
- Cream of tartar (optional)
- Sparkling water (optional)
Proponents claim that the vitamin C from fruit juice, potassium from coconut water, and sodium from sea salt help to replenish nutrients supposedly lost due to stress, thereby addressing "adrenal fatigue."[1][2]
Scientific consensus
[edit]"Adrenal fatigue" is not a recognized medical condition amongst medical experts, as the adrenal glands do not lose their ability to secrete hormones in healthy individuals due to stress.[1][6][9] While a rare condition called adrenal insufficiency (when the body doesn't produce enough cortisol) does exist, it is typically caused by autoimmune disorders or pituitary gland problems, not by a stressful lifestyle.[1] It is diagnosed by measuring blood cortisol levels.[1] There are no scientific studies supporting the claims that cortisol cocktails eliminate fatigue or stress.[1]
While potassium, sodium, and vitamin C are essential nutrients, a balanced diet typically provides sufficient amounts.[1] Many common fruits and vegetables, such as citrus fruits, mangoes, broccoli, bananas, avocados, and sweet potatoes, are rich in these nutrients.[1] Most people already consume adequate sodium.[1]
Occasional consumption of a cortisol cocktail is generally not harmful.[1] However, it may be high in sodium or sugar which may cause health issues in excess.[1] For instance, people with diabetes mellitus should be aware of the sugar content that comes from the juice.[8]
References
[edit]- 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 Legaspi, Caroline Hopkins (2025-07-10). "Can a 'Cortisol Cocktail' Help Relieve Stress?". The New York Times. ISSN 0362-4331. Retrieved 2025-07-12.
- 1 2 Ellis, Rachel Reiff. "Cortisol Cocktails (Adrenal Cocktails): What They Are and How They're Made". WebMD. Retrieved 2025-07-12.
- ↑ Davies, Martha (2024-02-28). "What Are Cortisol Cocktails? And Can They Really Beat Stress?". Country and Town House. Retrieved 2025-07-13.
- ↑ "Everything You Need To Know About TikTok's Newest Health Trend, The Adrenal Cocktail". Essence. 2023-08-11. Retrieved 2025-07-13.
- 1 2 Zocchi, Beatrice (2025-06-23). "The "Cortisol Cocktail" Isn't Just Delicious—It Also Works". Vogue. Retrieved 2025-07-12.
- 1 2 "What is the adrenal cocktail trend everyone's crazy about?". The Times of India. 2023-09-09. ISSN 0971-8257. Retrieved 2025-07-13.
- ↑ Onque, Renée (2025-07-05). "The 'cortisol cocktail' has gone viral on TikTok—but can it actually reduce stress? Here's what doctors say". CNBC. Retrieved 2025-07-13.
- 1 2 3 "What are cortisol cocktails? The trend that's helping people feel less tired and more balanced". The Times of India. 2025-07-10. ISSN 0971-8257. Retrieved 2025-07-13.
- ↑ "Adrenal Fatigue". www.endocrine.org. 2022-01-25. Retrieved 2025-07-13.