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Cortisol Cocktails Are Trending—But Do They Actually Work?
Are the trending cortisol cocktails a magic cure for adrenal disorders? Lately on social media platforms like TikTok, influencers are claiming health benefits such as stress relief and weight loss from special “cortisol cocktails” created to treat adrenal insufficiencies. Most experts, including our endocrinologists, say they are not truly effective.
Adrenal disorders occur when the adrenal glands (which help regulate things like blood pressure, immunity, metabolism, and stress response) don’t produce the correct amount of hormones.
Examples of adrenal disorders that our team of board-certified endocrinologists treat at TD&E include Cushing’s Syndrome, Hyperaldosteronism, Pheochromocytoma and Addison’s Disease or Adrenal Insufficiency.
What is a cortisol cocktail?
Cortisol cocktails claim to reduce the effects of cortisol/stress on the body (produced by the adrenal glands). Common ingredients in these concoctions include orange juice and coconut water as well as salt, cream of tarter, and ginger.
Fans of these homemade potions claim that this unique combination of vitamins, potassium and sodium can heal the adrenal glands and prevent the excess production of cortisol.
Not really so, says medical professionals and TD&E endocrinologist Dr. Jean Chen.
“There is nothing dangerous or harmful in drinking this cocktail of ingredients,” says Dr. Chen. “However, there is currently no scientific evidence to show that it has an actual effect on the adrenal glands. It’s best to seek guidance from an endocrinologist if you feel that you are suffering from adrenal insufficiency.”
Some common symptoms of adrenal insufficiency are:
- Extreme fatigue
- Loss of appetite or sudden weight loss
- Low blood pressure
- Dizziness
- Darkened skin in areas with folds like the elbows, knees, and toes
Effective Cortisol Management
As these cortisol cocktails continue to trend on social media, or various versions of them are being sold online, doctors remind those who buy into the hype that real relief from adrenal fatigue or cortisol-induced stress largely comes from healthy habits like:
- Eating a well-balanced diet
- Exercising regularly
- Getting plenty of quality sleep (six to eight hours for most adults)
- Seeking medical help when needed
Depending on the condition, adrenal disorders are typically treated with medication, radiation therapy, and/or surgery.
At TD&E, we are here to assist with your adrenal condition and explore the proven therapies to support your unique case and symptoms.
Contact Us to Help Manage your Diabetes, Osteoporosis, Thyroid & Adrenal Conditions
If you’d like to schedule an appointment with one of our specialists at Texas Diabetes & Endocrinology and discover how our diabetes services and other endocrinology therapies can help you lead a full and active life, please contact us at (512) 458-8400 or request an appointment online.
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