Experts wade in on the new drink that ‘will help you sleep better’

Health & Fitness
30 Jul 2025 • 6:20 AM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

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  • A wellness drink dubbed the 'cortisol cocktail' has gone viral on TikTok, with creators claiming it reduces stress, restores energy, and balances hormones.
  • Common recipes for the beverage, often consumed before bedtime, include coconut water, orange or lemon juice, a pinch of salt, and sometimes magnesium powder.
  • Nutritionists largely agree that while individual ingredients like magnesium are beneficial, the cocktail itself lacks proven health benefits for meaningfully reducing cortisol or stress.
  • Experts warn that the sugars in the drink can cause blood glucose spikes before bed, potentially leading to poor sleep and subsequently higher cortisol levels the following day.
  • They advise that if consumed, it should be earlier in the day with a meal, and stress management should primarily focus on holistic approaches including movement, diet, and sleep.

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