The Cortisol Cocktail: A Natural Way to Support Morning Energy and Stress Hormones

Angela Gioffre Nutritionist with 25 years of experience.

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What is the Cortisol Cocktail?

It’s a morning drink designed to naturally support the body’s stress response, stabilise energy, and optimise hydration. It’s particularly useful for individuals with adrenal fatigue, morning sluggishness, or those experiencing poor stress resilience. Unlike stimulants such as coffee, which can overtax the adrenal glands, the cortisol cocktail replenishes key nutrients required for healthy cortisol production and circadian rhythm balance.

The Physiology Behind It

Cortisol is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands, peaking in the morning as part of our natural circadian rhythm. Its role is to wake us up, stabilise blood sugar, regulate inflammation, and prepare the body to face the day. Many people, however, experience a blunted cortisol awakening response due to chronic stress, poor sleep, nutrient deficiencies, or blood sugar imbalances.
The cortisol cocktail works by:

• Hydrating the body after the overnight fast.
  

• Replenishing electrolytes and minerals used during stress and sleep.
  

• Supporting blood sugar regulation to prevent morning crashes or mid-morning fatigue.
  

• Nourishing adrenal function with vitamin C and sodium, both vital cofactors for cortisol synthesis.
  
  

Key Ingredients

While variations exist, the core recipe includes three main components:

1. Vitamin C Source
   

• Orange juice (freshly squeezed preferred), grapefruit juice, or lemon water.
  

• Vitamin C is heavily concentrated in the adrenal glands and required for optimal cortisol production.
  
  

2. Electrolyte Source (Sodium & Potassium)
   

• A pinch of high-quality sea salt or Himalayan salt.
  

• Sometimes combined with coconut water for additional potassium.
  

• These help restore electrolyte balance after the overnight fast.
  
  

3. Additional Support
   

• Some practitioners add magnesium, trace minerals, or adaptogens for extra support.
  

• Collagen or protein powder may be included to stabilise blood sugar further.
  
  

Basic Recipe

• ½–1 cup of fresh orange juice, lemon juice or grapefruit juice
  

• ¼–½ tsp of sea salt or Celtic salt
  

• Optional: ½ cup coconut water (for extra potassium)
  

• Mix and drink first thing in the morning, ideally within 30 minutes of waking.
  
  

Who Can Benefit?

The cortisol cocktail may support people experiencing:

• Adrenal fatigue or HPA axis dysregulation
  

• Low blood pressure or dizziness upon standing (orthostatic hypotension)
  

• Morning fatigue or brain fog
  

• Cravings for salty foods
  

• Stress-related nutrient depletion
  
  

It is also commonly used by those recovering from illness, chronic stress, or poor sleep quality to restore a more stable energy rhythm.