Functional drinks have surged in popularity, promising enhanced mental clarity, stress relief, and overall well-being. However, understanding these beverages can be tricky. The ingredients often lack robust scientific backing, and quality control varies significantly among brands. This guide explores the landscape of adaptogen and functional drinks, detailing key ingredients, assessing product performance, and highlighting brands worth considering—and those to skip.
How We Tested These Drinks
Evaluating functional drinks presents unique challenges. Unlike established categories like nutrition or sports drinks, these beverages rely on subjective experiences and often incorporate ingredients with limited scientific validation. Testing involved two primary methods:
- Personal Sensory Evaluation: Over a week or more for each brand, I tracked changes in mental state, stress levels, and overall consistency. Caffeinated drinks were consumed in succession to observe jitter-reducing effects. Nighttime formulas were tested before sleep, with sleep patterns logged. Kava was assessed both alone and socially, paying close attention to any gastrointestinal discomfort.
- Trained Sommelier Taste Test: In collaboration with Sami Gaston, a trained sommelier (co-owner of Bar Diane and Negociant in Portland, Oregon), we conducted blind taste tests of over two dozen flavors from eight brands. We evaluated nose, visual appeal, flavor, and aftertaste, seeking to determine whether each drink was palatable enough to consume regularly.
Key Ingredients and What They’re Supposed to Do
Many adaptogen and functional drinks feature ingredients unfamiliar to the average consumer. Here’s a brief overview of some common components and their purported benefits. It’s important to note that most of these ingredients lack extensive scientific backing, and folk wisdom, rather than rigorous studies, often drives their use.
Functional Mushrooms
- Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum): Thought to promote calmness and focus, with some potential benefits for lung function or glucose regulation. Ingestion is generally considered safe over extended periods.
- Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus): Widely regarded as a “brain superfood,” believed to boost nerve growth factor (NGF) production, which supports neuronal health. Limited evidence suggests potential benefits for cognitive performance and stress reduction.
- Cordyceps (Cordyceps sinensis): Historically used in the human world for stamina enhancement and workout recovery. Some preliminary research supports this claim.
Other Common Nootropics
- Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera): An evergreen shrub traditionally used for stress, anxiety, and sleep improvement, with emerging research supporting these uses.
- L-Theanine: An amino acid found in tea, thought to lower stress, boost dopamine and serotonin, and improve focus and sleep.
- L-Tryptophan: An essential amino acid converted to serotonin in the brain, potentially benefiting mood and sleep. Not recommended for those on SSRI medications.
- Ginseng (Panax ginseng): Historically linked to various health improvements, including potential anticancer properties and improved mental performance.
- Maca Powder (Lepidium meyenii): Considered beneficial for stamina, erectile function, libido, and easing menopausal symptoms, particularly in animal studies.
Is Kava Safe?
Kava, a shrub traditionally used in the South Pacific for ceremonial purposes, carries both potential benefits and risks. Kavalactones, the active compounds in kava, act similarly to benzodiazepines, reducing anxiety by bonding to GABA receptors in the brain. While generally safe, there are concerns regarding potential liver toxicity.
- Recommendations: Most sources recommend a maximum daily dose of 250 mg of kavalactones. However, processing ability varies, with Pacific Islanders possessing a higher enzyme rate (Cytochrome P450 2D6) compared to approximately 10-20% of Caucasians.
- Important Cautions: Kava should not be mixed with alcohol, benzodiazepines, or other medications. Pregnant individuals should avoid it. While gastrointestinal upset, headaches, or dizziness are the most common side effects, liver toxicity is possible.
Honorable Mentions
Hop Wtr ($30 a 12-pack):
Hop Wtr stands out for its natural hops flavoring, appealing to those familiar with the aromatics of hops. While not as flavorful as some, its best-tasting Blood Orange variant is a standout. Its functional benefits come from L-theanine and ashwagandha, which are thought to promote calmness and reduce cortisol levels.
Hiyo ($42 a 12-pack):
Hiyo’s branding and functional blend of ashwagandha, balms, and lion’s mane aim for clarity and calmness. However, in a tasting, the Watermelon Lime flavor was the most appealing, while other flavors were inconsistent and occasionally unpleasant.
Functional Drink Brands We Didn’t Like
Kin Euphorics ($35 an 8-pack):
Kin Euphorics’ aggressive marketing and high prices don’t align with the product’s quality. The flavors often clash, with overly strong ginger, confusing combinations, and generally unappealing profiles.
Mitra 9 Kava ($30 a 4-pack):
Mitra 9’s Kava offerings were not as palatable as those from Melo. While the lemonade and coconut lychee flavors did mask the muddy flavor of Kava, the actual drink flavors were often worse than what they were covering up.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.
