Can Cortisol Cocktails Really Help With Weight Loss?

Trendy wellness drinks pop up on social media all the time, promising everything from better sleep to improved digestion. The latest? Cortisol cocktails also called adrenal cocktails which influencers claim help regulate stress, boost metabolism, and promote weight loss. But do these drinks actually live up to the hype? Here’s what experts have to say.

What Is a Cortisol Cocktail?

While recipes vary, a typical cortisol cocktail consists of:

• Orange juice

• Coconut water

• Sea salt

• Optional add-ins like coconut milk, spices, or cream of tartar (a potassium-rich powder)

The idea is that this combination provides a balance of potassium, sodium, and glucose to support adrenal function, improve stress response, and aid in weight management.

Your adrenal glands, located above your kidneys, produce hormones like cortisol, which helps regulate metabolism, immune function, and the body's response to stress. Some proponents of cortisol cocktails believe that these drinks help "reset" the adrenals and reduce stress-related weight gain.

Do Cortisol Cocktails Actually Help With Stress or Weight Loss?

According to experts, the claims behind cortisol cocktails are largely unproven.

There’s no scientific evidence that these drinks help with weight loss, stress management, or cortisol regulation, says registered dietitian Amanda Beaver, RDN, LD.

"Adrenal fatigue" is not a recognized medical condition your adrenal glands either function properly or they don’t, explains Andres Splenser, MD, an endocrinologist. True adrenal insufficiency is a serious medical condition that requires professional treatment.

Juice-based drinks may not be ideal for weight loss. While cortisol cocktails are lower in sugar than soda, they still contain calories from fruit juice, which can contribute to weight gain if consumed in excess. "It is better to eat your fruit than drink it," Dr. Splenser advises.

Are There Any Benefits to These Drinks?

While cortisol cocktails won’t magically reset your metabolism, they do offer some potential benefits in certain situations:

A natural sports drink alternative – The combination of sodium and potassium can help replenish electrolytes lost through sweating, making it a better option than sugary sports drinks for people doing intense workouts.

A source of potassium – Many people don’t get enough potassium, which is essential for heart and muscle function. If your diet lacks potassium-rich foods (like bananas, potatoes, or leafy greens), this drink may help.

A self-care ritual – Sipping a homemade drink can be a relaxing routine, helping you slow down and de-stress (even if the ingredients themselves don’t directly impact cortisol levels).

A swap for high-sugar beverages – Replacing soda or sweetened coffee drinks with a cortisol cocktail may reduce overall sugar intake.

Who Should Avoid Cortisol Cocktails?

While generally safe for healthy adults, these drinks may not be suitable for everyone. Those with the following conditions should check with a doctor before trying them:

Kidney disease – The high potassium levels may be harmful.
High blood pressure – Extra sodium from sea salt could be problematic.
Diabetes or prediabetes – Fruit juice can spike blood sugar.
Cushing’s disease – A condition related to excess cortisol levels.
People on diuretics – These drinks could disrupt electrolyte balance.

The Bottom Line

Cortisol cocktails may be trendy, but they won’t "fix" stress, boost metabolism, or directly cause weight loss. While they can be a tasty way to hydrate and get some nutrients, you’re better off focusing on a balanced diet, regular exercise, and stress-management techniques to support long-term wellness.

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