Never before have we had access to such a robust wealth of knowledge around our health and wellness. Today’s health conscious and experts alike are taking a turn away from artificial ingredients and synthetic medications. Instead, the industry and its consumers are moving towards a deeper appreciation for holistic health practices that embrace the ancient traditions around the healing power that is held in the food and drinks we consume daily. One of the most convenient, and delicious, healthy and organic options today is the adaptogen drink.

What is an adaptogen drink?

You may be wondering, what exactly is an adaptogen drink? Put simply, it’s a beverage infused with adaptogens. These compounds have been shown through research to help the body better manage both physical and emotional stress in natural, healthy ways. Found in plants, herbs, roots, fungi, and other super foods, the adaptogen’s ability to reduce cortisol levels in the body, as well as to positively effect weight, digestion, blood sugar levels, energy, focus, immunity, and beyond, are something to get excited about.

What ingredients are beneficial in the best adaptogen drinks?

The best adaptogen drinks on the market boast a rich variety of antioxidants and nutrients that boost energy, elevate mood, and improve mental focus. In line with traditional medicine’s draw upon the health benefits of fungi are Yanomami mushrooms, derived from the Amazon rainforest. This native mushroom blend has long been used by the Yanomami people to achieve physical and emotional balance. Also effective is the Suma root, or Brazilian Ginseng, for its energizing properties as well as its contribution to the body’s wellbeing in general. Superfoods like Acerola cherries carry vitamins, including a good dose of vitamin C, and are packed with antioxidants while Guarana enhances both athletic performance and brain function.

The adaptogen advantage: physical benefits

Adaptogens have been shown to produce amazing physiological effects within our bodies, and these benefits trickle out into essentially everything we do, even with some surprising positives. As mentioned, adaptogen drinks are helpful in managing cortisol, as well as in balancing other hormone levels. In fact, these drinks may lower stress and its harmful effects to our brains and bodies.

Some physicians recommend these natural energy drinks over other high-sugar and caffeinated products for improved energy, focus, and dealing with the body fatigue that is brought on with physical or emotional stress. They also deliver higher endurance, mental clarity, and can reduce the effects of conditions such as depression and anxiety. When you’re looking for more regulated and consistent bodily functioning – including blood pressure, insulin resistance, digestion, and/or organ function – along with a boost to the immune system, reach for your favorite flavored adaptogen drink. To combat any physical, chemical, or biological stressor, these beverages are the natural, healthy choice your body deserves.

The adaptogen advantage: emotional benefits

The potential held in your favorite adaptogen drinks to help the body better manage and respond to stress brings endless emotional benefits at a time when we need them more than ever. How do they do this? It has to do with their positive and balancing capabilities upon hormone levels within the body’s endocrine system. When this system is functioning optimally, along with our nervous and immune systems, our bodies more effectively handle stress, be it environmentally or chemically induced.

When you’re dealing with life, it’s inevitable that stress happens. Research has shown adaptogens can naturally and effectively help to ease the pressures of harmful long-term stress. When our bodies function more optimally with the assistance of adaptogens and the reduction of harmful substances, stress and its negative impacts upon our emotional well-being can be vastly reduced. Whether it’s illness, injury, occasional alcohol or tobacco consumption, mental stressors associated with a breakup or job loss, lack of sleep, exercising in temperature extremes, or just plain dealing with day-to-day life in general, reaching for an adaptogen drink over artificial or addictive products is always a great idea.

When you’re looking for the best adaptogen drinks to fulfill your health needs, always check the label. They should be USDA Certified Organic, and should contain zero calories, sugar, or gluten. Be sure the drink you choose delivers the taste you crave for during any mood. Whether it’s a fizzy lemon ginger, a tropical treat or light smooth blend you seek, the best makers of these beverages offer variety packs to ensure the fridge is always stocked and ready.