Last Updated on 07/06/2024 by Jonathon
If you’ve found yourself wandering the aisles of your local grocery store, baffled by the array of functional beverages promising everything from enhanced brainpower to flawless skin, you’re not alone. The world of wellness drinks is booming, but separating fact from fad can be a challenge. Today, I’m here to guide you through the maze, equipping you with the knowledge to make informed choices that align with your health goals.
In this article, we’ll uncover the rise of functional beverages, explore their claimed health benefits, and provide tips on how to choose the right drink for you. Ready to sip on some knowledge? Let’s get started!
The Rise of Functional Beverages
Over the past decade, the functional beverage industry has skyrocketed into a multi-billion-dollar market (Gupta et al). What makes these drinks stand out? Unlike traditional beverages, functional beverages are designed to do more than just quench your thirst—they aim to enhance your overall well-being. With ingredients like mushrooms, caffeine, and vitamins, these drinks promise to deliver health and wellness benefits in every sip.
I remember the first time I saw a Red Bull commercial as a kid in the late 90s. The energy drink craze was just beginning, and I couldn’t understand why I wasn’t allowed to drink the cool silver-canned beverage from that silly cartoon commercial. Fast forward a few decades, and the market for functional beverages has expanded beyond energy drinks to include a wide variety of options such as kombucha, adaptogen enhanced waters, and collagen-boosting elixirs (Gupta et al). So, what’s behind this trend?
Consumer Demand for Healthier Options
In recent years, there has been a growing consumer demand for healthier food and beverage options. People are becoming increasingly health-conscious and seeking out products that not only taste good but also contain functional ingredients. This shift in consumer behavior has pushed beverage companies to innovate and create new products that cater to this demand (Gupta et al).
Moreover, I would hold that the rise of social media and influencer culture has played a significant role in popularizing functional beverages. With influencers touting the benefits of these drinks to their thousands (or even millions) of followers, it’s no wonder they’ve become all the rage.
Examples of Popular Functional Drinks
The variety and brands of drinks are countless and many of them are also available in gluten-free, sugar-free, and dairy-free options, catering to a wide range of dietary and health needs. Here’s a list of different types of functional drinks:
- Energy Drinks
- Prebiotic Sodas
- Sports Drinks
- Green Tea and Herbal Teas
- Adaptogen Drinks
- Protein Drinks
Energy Drinks
Think Red Bull and Monster, packed with caffeine and taurine to keep you energized. Many energy drinks also contain other minerals for added benefits to overall health (Somers & Svatikova). I like the energy drinks from 1st Phorm Energy – they have many flavors, but the scrumptious Orange Sunrise flavor is my personal favorite! Although, the Orange (formerly known as the awesomely named After Burner Orange) energy drink from Jocko GO is pretty good too.
Prebiotic Sodas
Brands like Olipop and Poppi offer sodas infused with prebiotics and plant fibers to support gut health (Carlson et al). Personally, I think you can’t go wrong with the Dr. Goodwin flavor from Olipop – the taste is hard to describe, and I’ve not had anything quite like it, but it’s an instant classic for me.
Sports Drinks
Gatorade and Powerade are go-to’s for athletes needing electrolyte replenishment. However, sports drinks have evolved to include newer brands like Body Armor and Biosteel that offer natural ingredients and fewer artificial flavors. These new options are perfect for those looking for a more natural alternative.
Green Tea and Herbal Teas
Teas offer a range of benefits from antioxidant properties to calming effects (Toda). I keep a box of Kava tea in my cabinet for extra-stressful times – and I regularly indulge in hot green tea for a small energy boost in the middle of the day when I don’t want a coffee kick.
Adaptogen Drinks
These are specific drinks designed to boost energy, such as those containing clinically effective levels of adaptogens, can help improve cognitive performance, memory, and endurance (Boolani et al). These adaptogen drinks should probably be considered the new kids in town, since they’ve only recently gained in popularity. I personally haven’t tried any of these (unless you count mushroom coffee), but after researching a few of them, such as Hiyo, a drink loaded with adaptogens like ashwagandha and nootropic mushrooms like lion’s mane, or the mood-enhancing mocktails from Recess Mood, I can certainly see the appeal.
Protein Drinks
Protein drinks are great for anyone looking to increase their protein intake and support muscle repair and growth. Brands like Muscle Milk, Fairlife, Raw Nutrition, Jocko Molk, and Huel offer a range of options from grass-fed whey protein to plant-based protein sources like pea and brown rice.
Health Benefits of Wellness Drinks
When it comes to wellness drinks, the potential health benefits are as diverse as the drinks themselves. Like many of you, I’ve been drawn to these wellness drinks due to the associated health claims, but what does the science and research say?
Some wellness drinks contain amino acids that promote mental clarity and cognitive functions (Suzuki et al). Many wellness drinks boast benefits like improved mental clarity, digestive health, and skin hydration. For example, energy drinks often contain B vitamins that support energy metabolism (Jagim et al), while probiotic drinks like kombucha are known to aid digestion and protect against gastrointestinal infections (Vargas et al).
These benefits illustrate why wellness drinks have become go-to options for those looking to improve their health holistically, and personally I think that drinking these beverages can be a good option to support overall wellness. However, it’s important to remember that results can vary based on individual health conditions and lifestyle factors.
Here are some key benefits you might experience when you drink a functional beverage:
- Improved Digestion
- Boosted Immune System
- Cardiovascular Support
- Enhanced Hydration
- Increased Energy and Focus
- Stress Relief and Calmness
- Skin Health
- Enhanced Athletic Performance
Improved Digestion
Prebiotic sodas and kombucha are rich in probiotics and prebiotics, which support gut health by promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria (Vargas et al). A healthy gut can improve digestion and nutrient absorption, making you feel better overall (Sanders et al). Additionally, adaptogen drinks may also contain ingredients that support gut health, such as ashwagandha (Dey et al).
Boosted Immune System
Many functional beverages include ingredients like vitamins C and D, antioxidants, and herbal extracts that can help bolster your immune system, making it easier for your body to fend off illnesses (Shaik-Dasthagirisaheb et al). In addition, functional drinks containing the aforementioned prebiotics and probiotics can support immune function (Sanders et al). Green tea is also known for its immune-boosting properties and may be effective at fighting off some bacteria, viruses, fungi, and even parasites (Reygaert).
Cardiovascular Support
Some wellness drinks, like hibiscus tea and beetroot juice, have been linked to lowering blood pressure according to recent studies. This is because these drinks contain bioactive compounds that can help widen blood vessels and promote better circulation (McKay et al, Dominguez et al). Hibiscus tea may also help control both cholesterol and diabetes (Sanadheera et al). The common energy drink ingredient taurine has been suggested to support heart health through the lowering of cholesterol and aiding calcium control, but I also find it interesting that it has been shown to lower the bad cardiovascular effects of caffeine, like heart fluttering or palpitations (Jagim et al).
Enhanced Hydration
Sports drinks often contain electrolytes such as potassium, sodium, and magnesium, which help replenish your body’s fluids and keep you hydrated, especially after intense physical activity (Shrimanker & Sandeep).
Increased Energy and Focus
Energy drinks loaded with caffeine, taurine, and B vitamins can provide a quick boost of energy and improve mental focus (Jagim et al). Adaptogen-infused drinks may also help combat fatigue and improve cognitive performance.
Stress Relief and Calmness
Herbal teas infused with ingredients like chamomile, ashwagandha, and lemon balm can promote relaxation and reduce stress levels (McEwen). Adaptogen drinks can also help balance stress hormones, providing a sense of calm without drowsiness (Winston).
Skin Health
Collagen-boosting elixirs often contain ingredients that support skin elasticity and hydration, such as hyaluronic acid, vitamins, and antioxidants. These components work together to potentially reduce the appearance of fine lines, improve skin texture, and give you a healthy, radiant glow. Regular use of such elixirs can contribute to a more youthful and vibrant complexion, making them a popular choice in skincare routines (Juncan). In addition, the antioxidants in many functional drinks can protect against skin damage from UV exposure and help with skin diseases related to aging (Toda).
Enhanced Athletic Performance
Certain functional drinks are designed to improve athletic performance by increasing endurance, reducing muscle soreness, and aiding in faster recovery post-exercise. These drinks often contain a blend of essential nutrients, electrolytes, and natural compounds that work together to support optimal physical function. By replenishing lost fluids and providing key nutrients, athletes can maintain peak performance and recover more efficiently after intense training sessions or competitions. Taurine, a common ingredient in energy drinks, has been shown to improve endurance exercise performance (Jagim et al). Beetroot juice is also well known for enhancing endurance during exercise (Dominguez et al).
Separating Fact from Fad in Health Benefits
While the trend towards healthier beverages is positive, experts urge caution. Not all health claims have robust scientific backing, and some drinks are laden with sugars and empty calories. Nutritionists warn against over-consumption, emphasizing the importance of moderation and reading labels carefully.
Navigating the Wellness Drink Market
When it comes to choosing the right wellness drink, consider your specific health goals and preferences. Are you looking for an energy boost, better digestion, or clearer skin? Look for drinks with natural ingredients, minimal additives, and no artificial sweeteners.
With so many options available, it can be overwhelming trying to choose the right functional beverage for your specific needs. Here are a few tips to help you make an informed decision:
- Research the ingredients
- Consider your health needs
- Read reviews
Research the Ingredients
Take a close look at the ingredient list and do some research on any unfamiliar ones. Be cautious of any additives, artificial sweeteners, or excess amounts of caffeine. Look for drinks made with natural ingredients and minimal processing to reap maximum health benefits.
Consider Your Health Needs
Are you looking for a drink to boost energy? Improve gut health? Support muscle repair? Choose a beverage that aligns with your specific health goals and needs. Consulting with a healthcare professional or nutritionist can also provide guidance in selecting the right wellness drink for you.
Read Reviews
Look for reviews from trusted sources or ask friends for their recommendations. This can help narrow down the options and give you a better idea of which beverages are worth trying. Remember to take reviews with a grain of salt and consider your own health needs and preferences before making a decision.
Final Tips for Avoiding Misleading Label Claims
It’s easy to be swayed by bold claims, but not all are created equal. Be wary of drinks that promise rapid results without scientific backing. Look out for extreme claims and those that advocate for short-term fixes or restrictive diets.
Always check the ingredient list and nutrition facts to ensure you’re getting a genuinely beneficial product. When in doubt, consult a healthcare professional or nutritionist for their expert opinion.
Conclusion: Separating Fact from Fad
Navigating the world of wellness drinks can be overwhelming, but armed with the right knowledge, you can make informed choices. Remember, wellness drinks can provide numerous health benefits, including unique wellness benefits such as hydration, energy, immune support, and relaxation, but it’s crucial to separate fact from fad and be cautious of misleading label claims.
Look for natural ingredients, minimal additives, and no artificial sweeteners when selecting your beverages. Pay attention to scientific evidence supporting health claims and prioritize sustainability whenever possible. By doing so, you can enjoy the benefits of wellness drinks while supporting your overall health and well-being.
The wellness drink industry is growing rapidly, driven by consumer demand for healthier beverages. By being informed and discerning, you can make the most of what this industry has to offer.
Ready to explore the world of wellness further? Join the Dream Root Wellness Network, our community of health enthusiasts, and stay updated on the latest trends and tips. Cheers to your health!
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