While stress levels among all ages are extremely high, it is imperative to take steps to lower them before they begin to harm your mental and physical health. Feelings of being exhausted or close to burnout need a few easy remedies that give you long-term relief. And one such social media cure is said to be the most talked-about cortisol cocktail—a simple drink recipe that claims to restore energy, ease tension, and support hormone balance.

While experts say cortisol cocktails are not a miracle cure or replacement for traditional therapy to treat and lower symptoms of anxiety or burnout, these drinks can bring calm and help lift mood. But are they good in the long run?

According to experts, cortisol is a steroid hormone, known as your body's main stress hormone, which also plays a crucial role in various other bodily functions. It is produced by the adrenal glands and helps regulate metabolism, blood sugar levels, inflammation, blood pressure, and the sleep-wake cycle. It also helps control your body’s circadian rhythm. These functions make cortisol crucial for survival, which is why it should never be eliminated entirely.

Cortisol levels usually fluctuate throughout the day, rising in the morning to help us feel alert, then tapering off in the evening to support rest. However, the real problem happens when cortisol remains consistently high, due to which your body may struggle to reset after physical or emotional stress, making it harder to find balance.

On social media, cortisol cocktails are a superhit with claims that this drink lowers high levels of cortisol, boosts energy, eases tension, and even balances hormones. A few fans have even credited cortisol cocktails with helping them lose weight, as it can boost metabolism.

While every cortisol cocktail recipe may be different, it usually involves a mix of ingredients that provide hydration and stress relief.

• Coconut water
• Fresh lemon or orange juice
• Magnesium powder
• A pinch of salt
• Sparkling water

Are cortisol cocktails effective?

According to experts, the calming effects of the cortisol cocktail are mostly linked to the combination of ingredients used in the beverage.

Salt, magnesium, and citrus juices provide the required sodium and electrolytes, which help you find a proper balance and regulate chemical reactions in your body. Electrolytes are crucial for body processes like conducting nerve impulses, contracting muscles, hydrating, and regulating pH levels. You need adequate electrolytes from your diet to keep your body healthy. Coconut water, lemon, and orange juices are great for hydration, as theygive a light, balanced flavour. Since these cocktails are non-alcoholic, they also help soothe your nervous system.

While the short-term cortisol release can help you run quickly from danger, when cortisol levels are too high for too long, it can lead to health issues like weight gain and some chronic diseases. A few natural ways to lower your cortisol levels include: