Adrenal Cocktail Recipe

Name: Adrenal Cocktail Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Ingredients: ½ cup orange juice; ½ cup coconut water ((or sparkling mineral water)); 1 ½ tablespoons lemon juice ((juice of 1/2 a lemon)); pinch of Himalayan pink salt; 1 to 2 tablespoons coconut milk

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Despite its name, this adrenal cocktail isn’t an alcoholic beverage. As a certified nutritionist consultant, mocktails are more my style, and this one provides extra vitamins and minerals in each sip.

I’ve tested this drink several different ways, so I’m excited to see which version you like best!

Whether you’re looking to help manage your cortisol levels or you simply want a refreshing afternoon pick-me-up, this recipe will quickly become a favorite.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Featured Review

“Refreshing and delicious! Our new summer favorite.
I gave it to my husband in place of his orange cream soda and he said, “What is this? (One sip)…it’s fantastic!” -Hilary

adrenal cocktail with orange slice and straw.

What is an adrenal cocktail?

It’s a non-alcoholic drink loaded with essential vitamins. The original idea for this recipe comes from Susan Blackard, NP, ND, Ph.D., at the Rejuvenation Health Center in Springfield, MO, as a potential way to help balance hormones (like cortisol production).

The body’s adrenal glands, located on top of both kidneys, are responsible for producing hormones such as cortisol and aldosterone, which help regulate blood pressure. (source)

Cortisol, also known as the primary stress hormone, increases blood sugar levels and helps regulate the wake-sleep cycle. It can be triggered at the same time as adrenaline, when the body is presented with a stressful event. (source)

The idea behind the adrenal cocktail is that it may help replenish some of the nutrients that the body uses during times of stress.

Why You’ll Love It

It’s a source of electrolytes. Instead of a sports drink, you can reach for this! It contains essential minerals like sodium, potassium, magnesium, and calcium, which may help the body regulate chemical reactions.
It may help to replenish nutrients. While there is some debate about the concept of adrenal fatigue, research does suggest that stress can lead to micronutrient depletion. This drink is a great way to incorporate extra nutrients into your diet.
It’s delicious. The combination of orange juice, lemon juice, and sparkling water makes you feel like you’re drinking a mocktail, without extra added sugar. When you add coconut milk into the mix, it tastes like an orange creamsicle!
It’s flexible. There are a variety of nutrient-rich juices and liquids you can combine to make an adrenal cocktail, so if you’re out of coconut water or orange juice, there are still plenty of options available as substitutes. This recipe serves as a starting point!

coconut milk added to an adrenal cocktail.

Cortisol Cocktail Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need:

Orange juice. This juice provides vitamin C, folate, and potassium, while also adding a touch of natural sweetness to your drink.
Coconut water. This is a natural source of potassium, magnesium, and sodium. Alternatively, you can use still or sparkling mineral water if you prefer.
Sea salt. Sodium helps your body maintain a proper balance of water and minerals.
Lemon or lime juice. Not only does this add a refreshing flavor, but it’s also a source of vitamin C, folate, potassium, and calcium.
Coconut milk. (optional) Try adding a tablespoon or two of coconut milk, or just the thick coconut cream, for a creamy drink with extra healthy fats, which may also help balance blood sugar levels.

You can add even more minerals to your drink by adding a pinch of cream of tartar, which is a source of potassium and other trace minerals, or collagen powder, for added protein. (Skip the collagen if you need a vegan drink.)

adrenal cocktail ingredients labeled in glass bowls.

How to Make an Adrenal Cocktail

Step 1:

Add the orange juice, coconut water, lemon juice, and salt to a glass. Stir well and add ice, if desired.

Note: You can swap coconut water for watermelon juice, which also has traces of potassium, calcium, and magnesium, or use mineral water for an even lower-sugar drink.

orange juice and mineral water added to 2 glasses.

Step 2:

Add a tablespoon or two of creamy coconut milk for a healthy dose of fat, and stir well. The drink is ready to serve immediately!

Detoxinista Tip

When using canned coconut milk, consider blending it in a blender first to ensure the solid fat is smoothly incorporated with the liquid, resulting in a consistency similar to heavy cream. Canned coconut milk that contains guar gum will be creamier than cans without it.

blended coconut cream added to the glass.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does an adrenal cocktail do?

It may help replenish the minerals and nutrients your body needs for hormone production and may help balance energy levels throughout the day.

Do I have to use orange juice?

No! For a lower-sugar drink, simply use coconut water, lemon or lime juice, and salt. If you can’t do coconut water, use sparkling mineral water instead.

Should I be worried about the added salt?

If you are watching your sodium levels, the salt in this recipe can be omitted. However, keep in mind that pink salt contains less sodium than table salt, and sodium plays a critical role in regulating fluid balance in the body.