Wellness drinks face scrutiny over promised calm

The wellness drinks market is growing but experts question whether small supplement doses can truly deliver calm.

Wellness drinks face scrutiny over promised calm

The wellness drinks market has grown on promises of reduced stress and a steadier mood. Two consumers, Lucy and Serena, say they rely on these beverages to cope with busy workdays and parenting duties, and some brands market drinks as a simple aid to feeling calmer. A well known brand recently faced an ad ban for suggesting its product could ease stress and anxiety, underscoring how such claims are being scrutinized.

BBC News spoke with nutritionists and dietitians who are skeptical that tiny doses of supplements in these drinks can produce real calm. A psychologist argues that the ritual of choosing a treat and taking time for oneself may create a sense of calm rather than the drink delivering a pharmacological effect. The debate highlights how marketing, science, and daily life intersect for consumers seeking quick fixes.

The piece exposes a friction between consumer desire for quick wellness fixes and the scientific threshold for proving mental benefits. Marketers push simple rituals to fit into crowded lives, while regulators and health professionals demand clearer evidence. This tension will shape how future ads are written and how much trust brands can earn.

Beyond advertising, the story taps into a broader trend: people seek emotional relief through routine and consumer goods. If trust in these claims erodes, the market could tighten, pushing brands toward stronger substantiation and more transparent labeling. The risk is not only money but credibility for a whole sector.

Highlights

As the market grows, the line between belief and evidence will be tested.