“Cortisol Cocktail” Claims Stress Relief and Weight Loss

But experts urge caution, citing a lack of scientific proof for the viral health trend.

A new social media trend called the cortisol cocktail is gaining traction with claims of stress reduction and weight loss. But does this concoction deliver on its promises, or is it simply too good to be true? Here’s what experts are saying.

What is the Cortisol Cocktail?

The drink, also known as an adrenal cocktail, typically contains orange juice, coconut water, cream of tartar, and salt. Proponents claim it benefits the adrenal glands. The concoction gained popularity last year, around the time that medically-indefinable adrenal fatigue began trending online.

Cortisol’s Crucial Role

Cortisol is a steroid hormone produced by the adrenal glands, which sit atop the kidneys, explains **Dr. Kishore Kumar Katam**, consultant endocrinologist at RAK Hospital. It plays a critical role in the body’s response to stress, as part of the ‘fight or flight’ mechanism. It helps regulate metabolism, blood sugar levels, inflammation and blood pressure.

The Impact of Elevated Cortisol

Cortisol production usually increases during stress or when blood glucose is low, regulated by the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis. Elevated cortisol levels are associated with increased appetite and abdominal fat storage, potentially leading to obesity, warns research published in *Obesity Reviews* (Wiley Online Library).

According to **Dr. Nevin Sadeep**, specialist in endocrinology at Aster Clinic in Dubai Silicon Oasis, Excess cortisol can cause central obesity, muscle wasting, insulin resistance, hypertension, osteoporosis, mood disorders and increased cardiovascular risk.

**Dr. Sadeep** also notes the dangers of cortisol deficiency, including fatigue, weight loss, and hypotension. Both excess and deficiency of cortisol have significant clinical consequences…Maintaining cortisol within a physiologic range is essential for metabolic stability and stress resilience.

Ingredients: Helpful or Hype?

Each ingredient in the cortisol cocktail, consumed individually and moderately, can contribute to a balanced diet.

**Dr. Hala Youssef Hamdy**, specialist endocrinologist at RAK Hospital, says that Coconut water is rich in electrolytes like potassium, which supports hydration and may help reduce stress-related fatigue. She adds that orange juice is high in vitamin C, which plays a role in reducing oxidative stress and may help modulate cortisol after acute stress; salt contains trace minerals and sodium, which can support adrenal function in cases of deficiency; and cream of tartar is a source of potassium, but its impact on cortisol specifically is unclear and not well-studied.

While the ingredients might promote general wellness, **Dr. Hamdy** suggests their direct impact on cortisol levels remains unproven medically.

The Verdict

The drink’s perceived benefits likely stem from improved hydration and relaxation rather than direct hormonal effects, says **Dr. Sadeep**. There is no evidence from controlled clinical studies indicating that beverages such as the cortisol cocktail have any clinical meaning or sustained impact on circulating cortisol levels.

In conclusion, while the cortisol cocktail might offer some hydration and relaxation benefits, it’s essential to approach claims of direct cortisol regulation and weight loss with skepticism. Consulting a healthcare professional for personalized advice is always recommended.