Latest news with #Addison'sDisease
News18
5 days ago
- Health
- News18
Cortisol Cocktail: What Is It, Why It's Trending, And Does It Actually Reduce Stress?
The viral cortisol cocktail is being pitched as a cure for stress, fatigue, and poor sleep. But is there any science behind it or is it just another wellness placebo? If you've spent time on Instagram Reels or health hashtags on TikTok lately, you've likely come across influencers touting the benefits of something called a 'cortisol cocktail." This brightly coloured, alcohol-free drink, usually made from orange juice, coconut water, sea salt, and sometimes magnesium powder, is being claimed as a fix for everything from poor sleep to persistent fatigue. But can this viral mocktail really influence cortisol levels, the so-called ' stress hormone", or is it simply another internet wellness trend with little scientific backing? As stress, burnout, and sleep disorders rise globally, the appeal of a natural remedy is understandable. But the truth behind this concoction is more complicated. What Is Cortisol And Why Is Everyone Talking About It? Cortisol is a steroid hormone produced by the adrenal glands, which sit atop the kidneys. Often referred to as the 'stress hormone," it plays a critical role in regulating metabolism, blood sugar, blood pressure, immune response, and the body's sleep-wake cycle. Levels naturally peak in the early morning, helping us wake up, and gradually decline through the day. But chronic stress can keep cortisol levels unnaturally high for extended periods, which is linked to anxiety, poor sleep, weight gain, and high blood pressure. Importantly, however, most endocrinologists globally do not view cortisol as something that needs to be 'manually lowered" in healthy individuals. Outside of rare medical conditions like Cushing's Syndrome (excess cortisol) or Addison's Disease (too little), cortisol regulation is best achieved through long-term lifestyle strategies, not a one-time drink. What Exactly Is In A Cortisol Cocktail? There's no single recipe, but common ingredients include: The drink is usually consumed either first thing in the morning or just before bed, with different proponents claiming varied benefits from improved mood and energy to better sleep. Some have also taken to calling it an 'adrenal cocktail," suggesting it supports the adrenal glands that produce cortisol. What Is Adrenal Fatigue And Is It Even Real? One of the central claims behind the cortisol cocktail is that it can fix something called 'adrenal fatigue." The theory goes: chronic stress exhausts your adrenal glands, impairing their ability to produce cortisol, leading to symptoms like tiredness, low energy, and salt cravings. But most endocrinologists and medical associations, including the Endocrine Society and the Indian Society for Endocrinology and Metabolism, do not recognise 'adrenal fatigue" as a legitimate medical diagnosis. Fatigue, brain fog, or sleep issues could point to thyroid dysfunction, anaemia, vitamin deficiencies, or mental health concerns, all of which need proper medical evaluation. In short: the symptoms are real, but the condition may not be. Does The Cortisol Cocktail Actually Work? There is no clinical evidence that the cortisol cocktail directly lowers cortisol levels or treats chronic stress. None of the drink's ingredients, not even magnesium or vitamin C, have been proven in the amounts used in the cocktail, to significantly modulate cortisol. That said, the ingredients do have physiological roles: Magnesium: Plays a role in hundreds of essential body functions, from turning food into energy to supporting nerve signals, muscle movement, and steady heart rhythm. It may help with anxiety and sleep, but such benefits are generally seen only in those who are deficient, a condition uncommon in healthy Indians with balanced diets, though low levels can occur in those with poor nutrition or certain medical conditions. Vitamin C: Important for adrenal function, but meaningful cortisol effects have only been observed in high-dose supplements, far beyond what fruit juice offers. Potassium and sodium (electrolytes): Help with hydration and nerve signalling, but their link to cortisol regulation is, at best, indirect. What some people may be feeling is the hydration effect: a boost in energy simply from better fluid intake, particularly in hot climates like India's, where dehydration is common. Are There Any Risks? Yes, especially if consumed regularly or by individuals with underlying conditions. Key concerns include: High sugar: Orange juice and coconut water are both high in natural sugars. This can spike blood glucose, especially problematic for those with diabetes or PCOS, both of which are highly prevalent in India. High sodium: A single glass of cortisol cocktail with half a teaspoon of salt can exceed 1,000 mg of sodium, nearly 50 per cent of the daily recommended limit. For people with hypertension or heart issues, this is a red flag. Potassium overload: Those with kidney disease should avoid high-potassium drinks, as their kidneys may not excrete excess potassium efficiently, risking dangerous complications like arrhythmia. Sleep disruption: When consumed at night, the cocktail's sugar content could lead to blood sugar crashes, restlessness, and poor sleep, ironically increasing cortisol the next day. Why Is It So Popular Then? In a hyper-connected, overworked world, carving out time for a self-care routine, even one as simple as making a fizzy mocktail, can create a placebo effect. The act of doing something 'healthy" can itself improve how we feel. This is amplified by social media culture, which often simplifies complex biological processes into quick hacks. The cortisol cocktail fits the algorithm perfectly: it's easy to make, looks good on camera, and feels like a wellness win. So, Should You Try It? If you're otherwise healthy, drinking the cortisol cocktail occasionally is unlikely to do harm. It might even help hydrate you, especially in India's humid summer months. But to treat actual stress, fatigue or hormonal imbalance, the cocktail is not a substitute for: A medical check-up Good sleep hygiene Regular physical activity A balanced, whole-food diet Addressing mental health concerns with professional help If you're pregnant, diabetic, hypertensive, or have kidney or heart conditions, consult a doctor first. The Bottom Line top videos View all The cortisol cocktail may quench thirst, but it won't solve stress. The science behind it is weak, the claims exaggerated, and the risks underdiscussed. Stress is a real and growing concern in India, but its solutions lie not in TikTok mocktails, but in more sustainable and evidence-based habits. About the Author News Desk The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk More Get Latest Updates on Movies, Breaking News On India, World, Live Cricket Scores, And Stock Market Updates. Also Download the News18 App to stay updated! tags : anxiety and stress cortisol Health and wellness view comments Location : New Delhi, India, India First Published: August 12, 2025, 11:23 IST News explainers Cortisol Cocktail: What Is It, Why It's Trending, And Does It Actually Reduce Stress? Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. 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Daily Mirror
7 days ago
- Health
- Daily Mirror
Full list of conditions eligible for free NHS prescriptions and how to get them
People using these free prescriptions will need to get a medical exemption certificate or face fines NHS prescriptions currently cost £9.90 per item, but some people can cut this cost down to zero depending on what condition they are using the medications for. There are only 10 qualifying conditions according to the NHS and patients will need to get a Medical Exemption Certificate proving they have a qualifying condition and can get free prescriptions. Fistulas Fistulas are an abnormal connection between two parts of the body, they can occur as a side effect of issues like cancer or be man-made through operations like colostomy, laryngostomy or ileostomy which connects part of the bowel to the skin. This can qualify you for free prescriptions if the fistula is permanent, such as a caecostomy or colostomy, and needs continuous surgical dressing or an appliance to manage. Hypoadrenalism This conditions occurs when the adrenal glands, which plays a major role in the body's response to stress, doesn't operate properly. It can qualify for free prescriptions if specific substitution therapy is needed to treat the condition, for example like Addison's Disease which is often treated with hormone replacement therapy. Hypopituitarism This condition affects the pituitary gland at the base of the brain, causing it to not produce enough of one or more hormones. It can trigger conditions like diabetes insipidus and other forms of hypopituitarism that qualify for free prescriptions Diabetes mellitus Diabetes mellitus is the official scientific name for diabetes, where your body doesn't produce enough insulin or can't process it effectively. You can only qualify for free prescriptions if your specific type of diabetes can't be treated by diet alone, which is often the case for type two diabetes. Hypoparathyroidism This rare endocrine disorder affects the parathyroid glands in your neck and can lead to bone, muscle and nerve problems. Most patients can be treated by taking vitamin D and calcium supplements for the rest of their lives. Myasthenia gravis Myasthenia gravis is a rare and long-term condition causing muscle weakness that is most common in women under the age of 40 and men over the age of 60. It can usually be treated with a range of medications which may have to be taken multiple times a day as it only provides short-term relief. Myxoedema This is a severe form of underactive thyroid. It's usually treated with thyroid hormone replacement medication and can qualify for free prescriptions as a result. Epilepsy The neurological condition will only qualify for free prescriptions if you are prescribed continuous anticonvulsive treatments to manage it. You'll be entitled to free prescriptions for all of your medicines if you have epilepsy according to the NHS. Physical disability If you have a continuing physical disability which means you cannot go out without the help of another person you may be entitled to free prescriptions. This is usually assessed on a case-by-case basis and it's important to note that to qualify you need the help of a person specifically rather than a guide dog or special equipment according to Care Home. Cancer If you have cancer, you can get free prescriptions for medications to treat the cancer, the effects of the cancer or the effects of the cancer treatment. If you do qualify for free prescriptions under these conditions, you'll need to get the application form for a medical exemption certificate from your GP or doctor. Certificates normally last for five years before you need to renew it. Claiming free prescriptions without a valid medical exemption certificate, or not being taking it with you to the pharmacy when getting your medications, could make you liable for a penalty charge.
Economic Times
21-06-2025
- Health
- Economic Times
Sushmita Sen was told to take a medicine every 8 hours for the rest of her life to survive. How she overcame health challenges and pill dependency
Choosing a Different Path An Unbelievable Turnaround Understanding Addison's Disease: A Complete Breakdown What Causes Addison's Disease? Common Warning Signs Persistent nausea accompanied by vomiting Pain or discomfort in the abdominal region Frequent episodes of diarrhea A noticeable reduction in hunger or interest in food Unexplained weight loss Aching in muscles and joints Involuntary muscle cramps or twitching Ongoing feelings of muscle fatigue or weakness Sushmita Sen is no stranger to battling a health crisis. The 'Main Hoon Na' actress, who survived a massive heart attack in 2023, had been living with Addison's Disease, a rare autoimmune disorder , since 2014, and was told point-blank by her doctors that she had to take a steroid called hydrocortisone every eight hours to prolong her life.'There is a hormone in the body called cortisol. My adrenal glands had stopped producing it. I had gone into an adrenal crisis. I was declared steroid-dependent for life,' she told Rajeev Masand in the actress was determined not to rely on drugs to stay the diagnosis, Sushmita wasn't willing to accept a future that relied solely on pharmaceuticals. As soon as she grasped the seriousness of her condition, she made a decisive call to her fitness trainer and asked to begin training in gymnastics—something completely out of the ordinary for someone in her condition.'The doctor said not to do any anti-gravity movements. The first thing I did was call my trainer... I don't like who I am becoming in the attempt to survive.' she told MasandShe expressed a strong desire to try anti-gravity workouts, a form of aerial fitness, and pushed herself to defy the limitations that doctors had placed on her. She admitted that while this approach may not be advisable for everyone, especially those battling chronic diseases, she believed that her body was trying to guide her in a different also adopted a comprehensive detox program, trying every medical protocol she could. Along with that, she reintroduced yoga, aerial exercises, and anti-gravity training into her life. These became her tools not just for survival, but for day, her journey took a shocking turn. After she collapsed unexpectedly, Sushmita was rushed from Dubai to Abu Dhabi for emergency medical care. Following her treatment, she was released and began her journey back to Dubai. During that time, her doctor from Turkey reached out with astonishing news. He told her to stop taking the hydrocortisone. Her body had started naturally producing cortisol again. The doctor, astounded, mentioned that in his 35 years of experience, he had never seen someone with adrenal failure regain natural hormone function. He had triple-checked the test results and was still in Sushmita, that moment was overwhelming—like receiving a divine message she had long waited for. Her body, once written off as steroid-dependent, had fought back and healed itself in a way that stunned even the most seasoned disease is a rare yet serious medical condition that arises when the adrenal glands fail to produce adequate amounts of specific vital hormones. According to a report from Harvard Health Publishing, this disorder particularly affects the production of cortisol—a hormone that plays a central role in the body's response to stress—and aldosterone, which is responsible for maintaining the balance of sodium and potassium. These minerals directly influence the volume of fluids in the body and help regulate blood pressure. Addison's disease falls under the category of adrenal insufficiency, where the glands don't function to their full primary cause of Addison's disease is damage to the adrenal glands, which are small, triangular organs situated above each kidney. These glands are essential for the release of various hormones that control metabolism, manage blood pressure, and support immune system performance. In the majority of cases—up to 90 percent—this damage results from an autoimmune reaction. This means that the body's immune system, which is designed to defend against harmful invaders like viruses and bacteria, mistakenly attacks the adrenal glands instead. Over time, this misguided attack impairs the glands' ability to produce hormones, leading to the development of Addison's with Addison's disease typically experience a broad range of physical symptoms, many of which are related to hormonal imbalances in the body. These symptoms often develop gradually and may worsen over time if not treated. They include:These signs are the body's way of signaling that the adrenal glands are not functioning properly. Because many of these symptoms are also found in other medical conditions, Addison's disease is sometimes misdiagnosed or goes undetected until the symptoms become severe.
Time of India
21-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Sushmita Sen was told to take a medicine every 8 hours for the rest of her life to survive. How she overcame health challenges and pill dependency
Sushmita Sen is no stranger to battling a health crisis. The 'Main Hoon Na' actress, who survived a massive heart attack in 2023, had been living with Addison's Disease, a rare autoimmune disorder , since 2014, and was told point-blank by her doctors that she had to take a steroid called hydrocortisone every eight hours to prolong her life. 'There is a hormone in the body called cortisol. My adrenal glands had stopped producing it. I had gone into an adrenal crisis. I was declared steroid-dependent for life,' she told Rajeev Masand in 2019. However, the actress was determined not to rely on drugs to stay alive. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Costco Shoppers Say This Wrinkle Cream Is "Actually Worth It" The Skincare Magazine Undo Choosing a Different Path Despite the diagnosis, Sushmita wasn't willing to accept a future that relied solely on pharmaceuticals. As soon as she grasped the seriousness of her condition, she made a decisive call to her fitness trainer and asked to begin training in gymnastics—something completely out of the ordinary for someone in her condition. 'The doctor said not to do any anti-gravity movements. The first thing I did was call my trainer... I don't like who I am becoming in the attempt to survive.' she told Masand She expressed a strong desire to try anti-gravity workouts, a form of aerial fitness, and pushed herself to defy the limitations that doctors had placed on her. She admitted that while this approach may not be advisable for everyone, especially those battling chronic diseases, she believed that her body was trying to guide her in a different direction. She also adopted a comprehensive detox program, trying every medical protocol she could. Along with that, she reintroduced yoga, aerial exercises, and anti-gravity training into her life. These became her tools not just for survival, but for transformation. An Unbelievable Turnaround One day, her journey took a shocking turn. After she collapsed unexpectedly, Sushmita was rushed from Dubai to Abu Dhabi for emergency medical care. Following her treatment, she was released and began her journey back to Dubai. During that time, her doctor from Turkey reached out with astonishing news. He told her to stop taking the hydrocortisone. Her body had started naturally producing cortisol again. The doctor, astounded, mentioned that in his 35 years of experience, he had never seen someone with adrenal failure regain natural hormone function. He had triple-checked the test results and was still in disbelief. For Sushmita, that moment was overwhelming—like receiving a divine message she had long waited for. Her body, once written off as steroid-dependent, had fought back and healed itself in a way that stunned even the most seasoned experts. Understanding Addison's Disease: A Complete Breakdown Addison's disease is a rare yet serious medical condition that arises when the adrenal glands fail to produce adequate amounts of specific vital hormones. According to a report from Harvard Health Publishing , this disorder particularly affects the production of cortisol—a hormone that plays a central role in the body's response to stress—and aldosterone, which is responsible for maintaining the balance of sodium and potassium. These minerals directly influence the volume of fluids in the body and help regulate blood pressure. Addison's disease falls under the category of adrenal insufficiency, where the glands don't function to their full capacity. What Causes Addison's Disease? The primary cause of Addison's disease is damage to the adrenal glands, which are small, triangular organs situated above each kidney. These glands are essential for the release of various hormones that control metabolism, manage blood pressure, and support immune system performance. In the majority of cases—up to 90 percent—this damage results from an autoimmune reaction. This means that the body's immune system, which is designed to defend against harmful invaders like viruses and bacteria, mistakenly attacks the adrenal glands instead. Over time, this misguided attack impairs the glands' ability to produce hormones, leading to the development of Addison's disease. Common Warning Signs People with Addison's disease typically experience a broad range of physical symptoms, many of which are related to hormonal imbalances in the body. These symptoms often develop gradually and may worsen over time if not treated. They include: Persistent nausea accompanied by vomiting Pain or discomfort in the abdominal region Frequent episodes of diarrhea A noticeable reduction in hunger or interest in food Unexplained weight loss Aching in muscles and joints Involuntary muscle cramps or twitching Ongoing feelings of muscle fatigue or weakness These signs are the body's way of signaling that the adrenal glands are not functioning properly. Because many of these symptoms are also found in other medical conditions, Addison's disease is sometimes misdiagnosed or goes undetected until the symptoms become severe.
Yahoo
29-03-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Are you eligible for free prescriptions? Yes, if you have 1 of these 11 conditions
Many NHS services are free at the point of service but there is usually a charge in England for prescriptions - with some exceptions. Health is a devolved matter in the UK so people in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland already receive free prescriptions. While English patients have to pay for some prescriptions, there are some circumstances where they can get them for free too. Whether it's due to their age, financial circumstances or medical conditions, some patients can claim free prescriptions. People living in England are eligible for free prescriptions if they are aged 60 or over, are under 16 or 16 to 18 and are in full-time education. You are also entitled if you are pregnant or have had a baby in the previous 12 months and have a valid maternity exemption certificate. Medical Exemption certificates are also given out via an application form by a doctor for specific cases. The National Health Service has said that you are entitled to a Medical Exemption certificate if you have: a permanent fistula (for example, caecostomy, colostomy, laryngostomy or ileostomy) which needs continuous surgical dressing or an appliance a form of hypoadrenalism (for example, Addison's Disease) for which specific substitution therapy is essential diabetes insipidus and other forms of hypopituitarism diabetes mellitus, except where treatment is by diet alone hypoparathyroidism myasthenia gravis myxoedema (that is, hypothyroidism which needs thyroid hormone replacement) epilepsy which needs continuous anticonvulsive therapy a continuing physical disability which means you cannot go out without the help of another person cancer and are undergoing treatment for either: cancer, the effects of cancer or the effects of cancer treatment The NHS has explained that these are the only conditions that entitle you to a medical exemption certificate. The health service added that if you're not sure about the name of your condition, you should speak to your doctor. Additionally, you could also be eligible if you hold a valid war pension exemption certificate and the prescription is for your accepted disability. If you are currently admitted to a hospital on a doctor's order or claim certain benefits or have a low income, you could also be eligible. Support for those on low income is available to help manage prescription costs. The NHS Low-Income scheme covers the likes of prescription costs, dental costs and eye care costs. Healthcare travel costs, wigs and fabric support are also included in the scheme. The NHS has explained that you can apply for the scheme if the value of your savings, investments or property is below £23,250 for people who live permanently in a care home. Everyone else needs to be under £16,000. Recommended reading: Has the bubonic plague returned to the UK? Health officials respond to fears 'Do not drink': Coca-Cola recalls drinks in the UK due to safety risks DWP may pay up to £737 a month for free if you have one these 87 conditions The health service continued by saying that the help you're entitled to is also available to your partner and any dependent young people. It depends on your savings for what your entitlement would be (full help is the HC2 certificate, meanwhile HC3 is for partial help). You can apply for either certification online or by post. If you need help or have questions about the LIS, call 0300 330 1343 from 8am to 6pm Monday to Friday and 9am to 3pm on Saturdays.
