Brightly coloured cans promising “calm” or “focus” have become a familiar sight on supermarket shelves. These so-called functional drinks, packed with ingredients such as ashwagandha, Lion’s Mane mushroom, L-theanine or magnesium, are marketed as quick ways to enhance mental wellbeing.
The global market is booming — expected to hit $248.5bn by 2030 — with younger generations increasingly turning away from alcohol. Brands such as TRIP and Huel have spearheaded the trend, using sleek design, CBD infusions and heavy social media promotion to attract wellness-conscious consumers.
Experts say there is some evidence behind certain ingredients. Randomised trials suggest ashwagandha and L-theanine may help with stress and attention, while magnesium benefits those who are deficient. But the research is still limited, and the effects are often modest.
The uncertainty has led to controversy. Earlier this year, UK regulators banned a TRIP advert that implied its drinks could reduce stress and anxiety, ruling the claims were not scientifically substantiated. Nutritionists warn that over-promising risks consumer disillusionment and misuse.
Part of the appeal may lie in the placebo effect: believing a drink will help can genuinely change how the brain perceives stress. But that does not make these products suitable for treating serious conditions like anxiety disorders or ADHD, where professional medical support is essential.
Driven by influencer culture and marketed as simple solutions to complex problems, functional drinks are unlikely to cause harm if enjoyed occasionally — aside from their high price tags. Still, dietitians advise caution: look beyond the buzzwords, read the research, and remember that no can of sparkling botanicals can replace long-term strategies for health and wellbeing.
