‘Cortisol Cocktail’ Goes Viral on TikTok amid Stress Epidemic—but Doctors Remain Skeptical

As stress levels surge across the U.S., a viral drink known as the “cortisol cocktail” is gaining popularity on TikTok, with users claiming it helps lower stress hormones. But medical experts say the science behind the trend doesn’t hold up, and its effectiveness remains unproven.

The alcohol-free beverage, typically served in a wine glass, includes coconut water, orange juice, lemon juice, magnesium powder, sea salt, and sparkling water. Despite its popularity on social media, where users share testimonials and preparation videos, doctors caution that the drink's claimed benefits for reducing cortisol levels are not supported by research.

Mocktail | Source: Pexels

“Doctors asking patients to lower their cortisol? We almost actually never do that because it’s something that’s actually hard to track,” said Dr. Jessica R. Lee, assistant professor at the University of Maryland School of Medicine. Cortisol, a hormone essential for regulating blood pressure, blood sugar, and electrolytes, naturally fluctuates and peaks in the early morning, making it difficult to monitor accurately.

Dr. Marilyn Tan, an endocrinologist at Stanford University School of Medicine, noted that cortisol reduction is generally only addressed medically in cases of Cushing’s Syndrome, where levels are chronically and dangerously high.

Experts agree that while the drink is not harmful for most people and may aid hydration, its components, except potentially magnesium, are not clinically known to reduce stress. “It’s kind of like Gatorade with the orange juice, the salt and the magnesium,” Tan said.

Mocktail | Source: Pexels

Both doctors advise individuals with conditions such as chronic kidney disease or diabetes to consult a physician before trying the drink due to possible risks from magnesium, potassium, and sugar content.