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We don t need data to confirm that we re stressed—but there are countless studies and polls out there doing it. Case in point: The most recent Censis-Eudaimon Report, which revealed that 31.8% of people feel close to burnout due to work stress.
It makes sense that social media is filled with stress-busting remedies (like a stress-lowering diet). And while some of them should fall into the realm of old wives tales, others may just be legit. The most popular one right now? A viral drink recipie claiming to lower cortisol, restore energy, relieve tension, and balance hormones. Besides the catchy name—the Cortisol Cocktail—could it be real? We dive in (and drink up).
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What is cortisol?
First things first: Cortisol is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands in response to stress. Producing cortisol is typically a valuable ally for the body, as it plays a key role in regulating the metabolism, inflammation, and blood sugar levels, as well as having a direct influence on circadian rhythm. It s essential for the human body to survive, and because of that, the goal is never to eliminate it—but there is such a thing as too much cortisol. A consistently high level prevents your body from regaining homeostasis. Instead, you live in a place of constant stress. Things like a lack of sleep or a poor diet can make things even worse.
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The Cortisol Cocktail recipe
- 200 ml of coconut water
- ½ squeezed lemon
- 50 ml of orange juice
- 1 teaspoon of magnesium powder
- ¼ teaspoon fine salt
- Sparkling water to taste
Why the Cortisol Cocktail works
Each of the ingredients of the Cortisol Cocktail is carefully chosen for its health-supporting benefits: salt, magnesium, orange, and lemon. Alone, they are great—but combined? Well, that s why the drink has gone viral. Sodium, potassium, and sugars, in fact, represent the perfect cocktail to give the body a boost. The presence of coconut water, on the other hand, promotes hydration, as well as giving the drink a delicate and pleasant flavor. It s a nonalcoholic cocktail that allows you to imagine yourself elsewhere, on vacation perhaps, acting on the negative effects of cortisol and helping to relax the mind.
Shop Vogue s favorite magnesium powders, below.
