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    Do Functional Wellness Drinks Actually Work?

    In a world where wellness trends are constantly evolving, functional wellness drinks have become a staple for many looking to boost their health. From kombucha packed with probiotics to CBD-infused drinks for stress relief, there’s a beverage for almost every need. But with so many options on the market, it’s easy to wonder: are these drinks actually worth it, or are they just another passing trend? In this article, we’ll dive into the benefits, the buzz, and the real impact of functional drinks—so you can decide whether they're a worthy addition to your daily routine.

    By Harriet Ishbel Sweeney / Jan 03, 2025

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    Functional wellness drinks are beverages that go beyond just quenching your thirst. They typically contain added ingredients like vitamins, minerals, probiotics, adaptogens, or herbal extracts, which claim to offer specific health benefits. From supporting gut health to improving sleep quality, these drinks promise to do it all.

    Some popular categories include:

    Kombucha

    Fermented tea loaded with probiotics.

    Adaptogen Drinks

    Drinks containing herbs like ashwagandha, rhodiola, or reishi to help with stress.

    Electrolyte Beverages

    Hydration drinks enhanced with minerals to replenish after exercise.

    CBD-infused Drinks

    Infused with cannabidiol for its purported calming and anti-anxiety properties.

    Functional Waters

    Waters infused with vitamins, minerals, and other active ingredients like collagen.

    Vitamin-enriched Drinks

     Drinks that provide a boost of essential vitamins and nutrients.

    But are these drinks worth the cost and the extra calories?

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    do they actually work?

    This is the big question, right? Do these drinks actually provide the benefits they promise? Let’s break it down.

    gut health: kombucha and probiotics

    Kombucha, a fermented tea rich in probiotics, is one of the most popular functional drinks in the UK right now. Brands like Rebel Kitchen and Equinox Kombucha have made it easy for us to get our daily dose of gut-friendly bacteria. Probiotics are known to support digestion and boost the immune system, and some research suggests that they can be beneficial for gut health.

     

    However, while drinking kombucha may help balance your gut flora, it’s important to remember that not all kombuchas are created equal. Many of the drinks on the market are loaded with sugar, which can counteract the positive effects of the probiotics. So, if you’re looking for gut benefits, check the sugar content before purchasing.

    stress relief: adaptogens and cbd

    Adaptogen-based drinks have gained a lot of attention in the wellness space. Adaptogens are herbs and mushrooms that help the body adapt to stress and restore balance. Brands like Mood Brew and Hibiscus Hill offer adaptogen drinks that claim to reduce stress, improve mental clarity, and support energy levels.

     

    CBD-infused drinks are also making waves. TRIP CBD is a popular brand in the UK that offers CBD drinks designed to help with anxiety and improve sleep. CBD, a compound found in cannabis, is said to interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system, promoting a feeling of relaxation and calm.

     

    While there is some promising research supporting the benefits of adaptogens and CBD, it's important to remember that results can vary between individuals. These drinks might work wonders for some, while others may not experience the same effects.

    hydration and electrolytes

    Hydration drinks, often loaded with electrolytes like sodium and potassium, are especially popular among athletes. Brands like Hux offer electrolyte-infused drinks that help replenish your body after a workout. These drinks are designed to keep you hydrated and replenish vital minerals lost through sweat.

     

    If you’re doing intense exercise or live in a hot climate, electrolyte drinks can be super beneficial. However, for the average person just going about their day, water should still be your go-to source for hydration. These drinks can also be packed with sugars or artificial sweeteners, so it’s important to check the ingredients list.

    vitamin-boosted drinks

    If you’re looking to boost your vitamin intake in a convenient, easy-to-drink form, functional beverages like Vitamin Well drinks could be a great option. Available in various flavours like Vitamin Well Awake (which contains caffeine, vitamins, and antioxidants) and Vitamin Well Hydrate (perfect for replenishing fluids and essential minerals), these drinks are designed to provide an extra dose of nutrients to support overall health. They’re a great alternative to sugary energy drinks and are much lighter on the stomach. While they won’t replace a balanced diet, they can provide a convenient vitamin boost throughout your day.

    Pro / Wellness Space 

    Pro / Wellness Space 

    Are They Worth the Money?

    Functional wellness drinks often come with a premium price tag. But are they worth the investment? Here’s how to think about it.

    The Convenience Factor

    One of the biggest draws of functional wellness drinks is convenience. It’s much easier to grab a bottle of kombucha or a ready-made adaptogen drink than to make your own homemade wellness tonic. For people with busy lifestyles, these drinks can be a quick and easy way to support their health goals without extra effort.

     

    However, if you're on a budget, these drinks can add up quickly. While the occasional bottle can be a nice treat, they might not be necessary for everyone. If you’re looking to support your gut health or manage stress, there are often more affordable ways to achieve similar results, such as incorporating probiotic-rich foods like yogurt and kefir, or practicing relaxation techniques like yoga and meditation.

    Are the Benefits Real?

    The effectiveness of these drinks depends on a few factors, like the dosage of active ingredients and how your body responds. For example, you might need to drink kombucha regularly for a few weeks before noticing any changes in your digestion, or you might need to consume several servings of an adaptogen drink to feel the stress-relieving effects.

     

    The downside is that many functional drinks don’t contain enough of the active ingredient to make a noticeable difference. For example, CBD drinks often don’t have a high enough dose of CBD to make a significant impact, and some adaptogen drinks contain very small amounts of the herbs that are supposed to reduce stress.

     

    It’s also important to remember that these drinks are not a cure-all. They might complement a healthy lifestyle, but they shouldn’t replace a balanced diet, regular exercise, or other proven methods for managing your health.

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    conclusion: are functional wellness drinks worth it?

    So, are functional wellness drinks worth it? It depends. If you’re someone who values convenience and enjoys trying new ways to support your wellness, these drinks can be a fun and potentially beneficial addition to your routine. However, they shouldn't be relied upon as a magic solution for health problems.

     

    For those on a budget or looking for more cost-effective ways to support wellness, there are often simpler, more affordable options available, like homemade smoothies or regular meditation practice. Ultimately, it’s about finding what works best for you and your lifestyle.

     

    If you decide to give functional wellness drinks a go, just make sure to check the ingredient list, be mindful of the sugar content, and remember that no drink can replace the foundations of a healthy, balanced life. Cheers to wellness – in whatever form that may take!

    Known for its natural fermentation and unique flavours, this UK kombucha brand is an easy option for boosting your gut health.

    Infused with calming CBD, TRIP’s drinks are perfect for those seeking relaxation and stress relief without any unwanted side effects.

    This brand offers mood-boosting drinks packed with herbs like ashwagandha and holy basil to help reduce stress and promote mental clarity.

    These drinks are perfect for hydration after a workout, offering a refreshing blend of electrolytes to replenish your body’s essential minerals.

    With a variety of flavours designed to boost your energy, hydration, and immunity, Vitamin Well drinks are an easy way to incorporate extra vitamins into your day.

    Disclaimer: The content on this site is for informational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making any decisions regarding your health or wellbeing.

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