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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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CNBC
05-07-2025
- Health
- CNBC
The 'cortisol cocktail' has gone viral on TikTok—but can it actually reduce stress? Here's what doctors say
Let's face it: Americans are stressed. Google searches for "how to reduce stress" are high, and 77% of U.S. adults report that the country's future is a major source of stress, according to a survey done by the American Psychological Association. So, it's no surprise that people are looking for ways to better manage their stress. One of the latest hacks to pick up some steam online is the "cortisol cocktail." The drink often seen prepared in a wine glass, is actually alcohol-free and combines these ingredients: Social media users, especially on TikTok, post videos of themselves making the beverage at home. They also address the claims that it can help lower the stress hormone, cortisol and share their experiences. But can the mocktail actually help lower cortisol? We talked to medical professionals to find out if there are any real benefits. Cortisol is a stress hormone in the body that maintains blood pressure and electrolytes, says Dr. Marilyn Tan, endocrinologist and clinical associate professor of medicine at Stanford University School of Medicine. "It's necessary for function, and without it, people could have dangerous changes in their sodium and potassium levels, and also low blood sugar and very low blood pressure," Tan says. Cortisol rises during times of emotional or physical stress. And levels of cortisol are highest early in the morning, right after people wake up, and wane throughout the day, which makes them pretty difficult to track. "Doctors asking patients to lower their cortisol? We almost actually never do that because it's something that's actually hard to track," says Dr. Jessica R. Lee, assistant professor at the University of Maryland School of Medicine. "It's more about managing stress and other things that we think can contribute to the cortisol changes." Only when someone has consistent and severely high levels of cortisol, or Cushing's Syndrome, would doctors recommend medication for lowering levels of the hormone, Tan says. The ability of this viral mocktail to lower cortisol is unlikely, the experts say. "I'm not aware of any studies that looked at the effects of these individual ingredients on cortisol levels," Tan says. And Lee agrees: "There's not great studies out about any of this." Lee points to "internet medicine" as the reason why things like the cortisol cocktail trend online. "It's quick, easy, viral clicks, is my guess," Lee says. "I think a lot of people do notice feeling better, but there's a number of reasons why they feel better." One reason may be that the combination of ingredients in the cortisol cocktail can make you feel more hydrated, which most people could benefit from, Tan says. "It's kind of like Gatorade with the orange juice, the salt and the magnesium. People often think that it may help with sleep or help with relaxation," she says. "There aren't any large randomized, controlled trials on the effects of magnesium and sleep quality or stress levels, per se. But if it helps people sleep better, that can also help with overall well-being and health." "None of [the ingredients], separately, are actually known to reduce stress, except maybe magnesium," Lee says. "I think it just tastes nice." While the cortisol cocktail is harmless for most and can be great for hydration, both experts caution people with certain conditions to avoid drinking it, and advise that you speak with your doctor before you do. The magnesium and potassium intake can be harmful for people with chronic kidney disease, and the sugar can be troublesome for people who have diabetes. If you've been feeling stressed often, Tan and Lee have suggestions for improving your mental health. "Once somebody figures out what works for them, it's important to try to keep it up as a part of your overall wellness routine," Tan says.
India.com
05-06-2025
- Lifestyle
- India.com
Anant Ambani once spoke about who truly gave him strength during health issues; not Mukesh Ambani, Nita Ambani, Isha, Shloka, Akash Ambani, but...
Revealed: How Mukesh Ambani, Nita Ambani's son Anant Ambani lost 108 kgs in just 18 months with.... Anant Ambani, the youngest son of Mukesh and Nita Ambani, who officially stepped into his new position as Executive Director at Reliance Industries Limited (RIL) this year, has often caught netizens' attention not just for his professional responsibilities, but also for his personal journey with health struggles. From childhood, Anant struggled with chronic asthma and obesity, which led to significant weight gain due to steroid treatments. Anant Ambani once amazed the world when he shed 108 kg in 18 months. He followed a considered plan that combined structured dietary modifications, regular exercise, and a transition toward long-term health goals. However, over time, the weight returned, subjecting him to public scrutiny and online trolling. For the unversed, Anant Ambani, Director, Reliance Industries Limited, has been suffering several health issues, such as Cushing's Syndrome–a rare hormonal disorder–and morbid obesity, as well as asthma and a severe lung disease. In a heartfelt interview with India Today, he once spoke about the person who never left his side, supporting him unconditionally through every high and low. Surprisingly, it wasn't his mother, Nita Ambani, sister Isha, or brother Akash—it was someone else entirely. Anant Ambani, who was born on April 10, 1995, attributed his wife Radhika Merchant for being a pillar of strength like no other when he fought health issues. He fondly referred to her as 'the person of my dreams,' In a heartfelt interview with India Today, Anant Ambani said, 'I am lucky (to have her) for sure. She is the person of my dreams. Since childhood, I had thought that I would never get married because I was always devoted to taking care of animals. But when I met Radhika, I saw her sharing the same values as me. She has this sense of giving and nurturing towards animals.'
Yahoo
10-02-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Is Not Being Hungry In The Morning A Sign Of Hormonal Issues? We Asked The Experts
Don't get me wrong ― I have a huge appetite. It just doesn't tend to kick in until around noon. Experts say our Circadian rhythm tends to make us less peckish in the morning, only to become ravenous after 8 pm (yup, that sounds like me). But my TikTok For You page has had me in a bit of a panic recently. Wellness influencers appear on my screen, telling me that not feeling hungry in the morning ― especially if you're a woman ― is a telltale sign of too much cortisol, a 'stress' hormone that's been blamed for everything from weight gain to puffy faces. So, I thought I'd reach out to registered nurse Janelle Salo, Dr Michael Chichak, Medical Director at MEDvidi, and Dr Daniel Atkinson, clinical lead at to find out whether that's really true. Nurse Salo says: 'Cortisol, the hormone that helps wake you up, is naturally higher in the morning and it can suppress hunger.' But that doesn't mean anything's wrong with you, or that your hormones are somehow 'imbalanced.' We need cortisol to regulate our bodies and keep us alert ― that's why people with Addison's disease, a condition caused by a lack of cortisol, experience exhaustion and even fainting. All three experts made comments along the lines of Dr Atkinson's assessment. He told HuffPost UK: 'Lots of things can affect your appetite, so not feeling hungry when you wake up isn't necessarily an indication of ill health, or that your hormones aren't working as they should.' These factors can include eating too much the night before, hormonal changes, or, yes, added stress. Nurse Salo added that 'women may notice shifts in their morning hunger depending on where they are in their menstrual cycle,' stating that 'rising oestrogen levels can dampen appetite, while progesterone can increase it'. Those are hormonal changes, but they're not necessarily ones to worry about ― women simply tend to go through more hormonal shifts than men as a matter of course. Indeed while all experts say that not being hungry in the morning may not be a red flag in and of itself, Dr Chichak told us that women 'may experience more complex hormonal imbalances involving cortisol, insulin, and even liver function' that could complicate the relationship between appetite and health than men. If waking up without an appetite is normal for you and you're not experiencing any other symptoms, the experts agree you're likely fine. But Nurse Salo writes that 'if you regularly skip meals and feel sluggish, lightheaded, or irritable, it could be worth checking in with a doctor or nutritionist to ensure that your eating habits support your energy levels.' She adds that while hunger levels vary from person to person, 'If everything is running smoothly, meaning you're well-rested, eating balanced meals, and staying hydrated, you should generally start feeling hungry within a couple of hours after waking up.' Dr Atkinson points out that Cushing's Syndrome, a medical condition which arises from extremely high levels of cortisol, may actually increase your appetite rather than lower it. Still, he says: 'If your appetite is consistently lacking over a prolonged period, then it might be worth speaking to a medical professional.' Dr Chichak agrees, writing: 'For some, skipping breakfast is not such a big deal, however, when combined with an energy slump, digestive problems, or menstrual irregularities, medical attention is advised.' If your appetite is usually so low you're not eating enough to sustain yourself, if you notice other symptoms like sluggishness and dizziness, and if you generally feel worried about your eating habits, a trip to the GP is advised. But otherwise, Nurse Salo advises: 'if you feel good and your energy levels are steady, your natural hunger pattern is probably just right for you!'. This 'Risky' TikTok Sleep Trend Has 'Zero Legitimate Science,' Sleep Expert Says Here's The Best Time To Eat Dinner, Longevity Experts Say I Asked An Expert Why We Get Food 'Icks' And The Reason Is So Surprising
Yahoo
26-01-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
'Doctors said I only had two years to live'
When Marsha McCarty-Coombs was diagnosed with Conn's Syndrome at the age of 39, doctors told her to "get her papers in order" as she may have less than two years left to live. Now at 59, she has surpassed all health expectations. "I'm just so happy and grateful to be alive," said Marsha, who is originally from Bristol but now lives in London. Conn's Syndrome, also known as primary aldosteronism, is a condition that causes high blood pressure due to excessive production of the hormone aldosterone by the adrenal glands. She has launched an affordable jewellery brand as a way to give back to the community of Bristol by raising money for local charities. Marsha's battle began in 2005 when she collapsed at her London home and was rushed to hospital. Despite spending six months at Park Royal Hospital, doctors were unable to identify the cause of her illness. "They told me to go home and get my papers in order because they didn't believe I would live to see 40," Marsha recalled. But instead of preparing for the worst, she planned a family reunion and a 40th birthday celebration, determined to embrace life. After enduring numerous tests and consultations, she was finally diagnosed with Conn's Syndrome. The Cleveland Clinic estimates that 5% to 10% of adults with high blood pressure have this condition, which is more prevalent in women. Symptoms include low potassium levels, high blood pressure, headaches, muscle cramps and excessive thirst. However, many individuals, including Marsha, do not recognise the symptoms. "When they diagnosed me, I wasn't looking for symptoms. I just thought it was early menopause," she said. The condition led to severe complications, including uncontrolled bleeding that led to a hysterectomy. Marsha has since also been diagnosed with Cushing's Syndrome, another hormonal disorder caused by excessive cortisol levels. This condition has led to the development of non-cancerous tumours, including two found on her brain and another on her vocal gland. Due to the risk of spreading, doctors have opted not to remove the latter. Despite her health struggles, Marsha said she tries to remain positive. She founded an affordable jewelry brand, Queens of Jewellery, to support low-income families while raising funds for charities across the West of England. Her products range from 50p to £25, ensuring accessibility for all. "As a single mum, I know the struggle of choosing between a loaf of bread and treating yourself. "I wanted to create something affordable for everyone," she explained. Her efforts have supported charities such as Missing Link, a Bristol-based domestic abuse organisation. Marsha said managing her condition has been challenging but she has now reduced her medication intake from 32 tablets a day to eight with the support of a pharmacist. "I go into hospital every six months for tests, and every year my consultant reminds me that I shouldn't still be here," she said. Despite losing her hair, mobility, and battling arthritis, Marsha said she remains calm. "I've learned how to deal with pain, and I'm just so grateful to be alive," she said. She said her husband has been a constant source of strength, standing by her side without "coddling" her. Follow BBC Bristol on Facebook, X and Instagram. Send your story ideas to us on email or via WhatsApp on 0800 313 4630. Amy Schumer reveals she has Cushing's Syndrome 'My whole world went to bits after ME diagnosis' 'I was diagnosed with endometriosis by chance' Cushing's syndrome - NHS
