Drinks That Chill - Do They Deliver?
The Rise of Calm in a Can: Functional Beverages and the Quest for Relaxation
In today’s fast-paced world, many people are turning to functional beverages as a way to find a moment of calm. These drinks, marketed as stress-relievers, are gaining popularity among those juggling careers, family life, and personal wellness goals. Lucy and Serena, two friends with busy lives, have found these drinks helpful when they feel overwhelmed or anxious.
"These drinks aren't going to eliminate all my worries," says Serena, "but if they give me a little boost, I'll take it." Lucy agrees, noting that when she feels a low-level panic, a drink like Trip can help her regain her composure.
However, not everyone is convinced about the effectiveness of these products. A recent ad from one of the industry's top brands was banned for suggesting its drinks could help with stress and anxiety. This has sparked questions about whether these beverages truly deliver on their promises.
Experts in nutrition and psychology have expressed skepticism about the impact of the small amounts of supplements found in these drinks. According to dietitian Reema Patel, the quantities may not be enough to provide the emotional balance or stress relief advertised by the industry. She points out that while some research exists on ingredients like Lion’s Mane mushroom, there is still no conclusive evidence about their effectiveness.
The functional beverage market is growing rapidly. British supermarkets have seen sales jump by 24.5% in the last year, with nearly 30% of UK households now purchasing these drinks. Brands like Trip, Rheal, Grass&Co, and Goodrays are marketing their products with ingredients such as:
- Lion’s Mane extract – a type of mushroom associated with cognitive support
- L-theanine – an amino acid found in tea, known for promoting relaxation
- Ashwagandha – an herb used in traditional medicine to reduce stress
- Magnesium – a mineral essential for overall health
While these ingredients are commonly linked to mood enhancement, energy boosting, and stress reduction, the scientific evidence supporting these claims varies. Some studies suggest that higher doses of these supplements, such as 1800mg of Lion’s Mane, may have more significant effects than what is found in typical functional beverages.
Performance nutritionist Dr. Sinead Roberts notes that supplements can make a difference for specific groups, such as athletes or individuals with nutrient deficiencies. However, she cautions that for the general population, these drinks may not offer substantial benefits. “A trace of Lion’s Mane or Ashwagandha in a fizzy drink is unlikely to make a real difference,” she adds.
Some consumers, like 25-year-old Emily May, don’t care about the science behind the drinks. She enjoys the taste and finds them a good alternative to alcohol. “I’m ADHD, so I’d need a lot more than one of these drinks to calm down,” she says.
Psychologist Natasha Tiwari highlights the fine line between advertising a product for relaxation and claiming it can treat mental health issues. She warns that the wellness sector often conflates mental health with well-being, creating a “toxic mix.” While the experience of drinking these beverages can offer temporary relief, the effects may come more from the act of taking time for oneself rather than the ingredients themselves.
For Lucy and Serena, the appeal of these drinks lies in the brief moments of peace they provide. Whether the science supports it or not, a can of calming beverage offers a welcome respite from the chaos of daily life.
Brands like Grass&Co emphasize their commitment to natural blends and expert formulation, backed by approved health claims. As the functional beverage market continues to expand, consumers must weigh the potential benefits against the lack of robust scientific evidence and consider alternatives like therapy or massage for long-term well-being.
