You've probably already tried these attractively packaged drinks that promise to support you every day thanks to their beneficial properties and nutrients. They're everywhere! What you might not know is that these drinks are called "functional." Whether you're a fan of kombucha, vitamin-infused water, or energy soda, we'll tell you all about their benefits and…their limitations!
Functional drinks, what are they?
Several studies have highlighted that, since the pandemic, North American consumers have been seeking products richer in nutritional value, particularly those that play a positive role in the immune system, brain health, and cardiovascular health. This has contributed to the rise of so-called "healthy" drinks. Alcohol-free, these beverages are often enriched with plant extracts, amino acids, vitamins, minerals, fruits, and even vegetables. They help hydrate the body while providing benefits such as boosting energy, combating stress, or improving digestion!
The most well-known
Functional waters
These waters are infused with various plants or enriched with vitamins, fruits or minerals: they often contain ginger for its anti-inflammatory effect, ginkgo biloba, blackcurrant or goji berries for their antioxidant properties, but also ginseng or creatine which are energy carriers.
Functional waters may also contain caffeine, vitamin B, or even lemon.
They can be soothing when they contain chamomile or draining and detoxifying when they are based on Quinton plasma - seawater highly concentrated in minerals and trace elements!
They can also improve concentration and sleep when they contain L-theanine, an amino acid found in tea leaves. Finally, coconut water, best drunk very cold, is rich in minerals.
Good to know: generally without added sugar and without alcohol, functional waters are positioned as the ideal alternative for all those who are not fond of plain water!
Vegetable juices
Vegetable juices, a popular trend at home, have flooded the market: juices and smoothies made with celery, kale, tomato, carrot, or beetroot have found their place in the refrigerated section of our grocery stores. They are concentrated sources of nutrients, excellent detoxifiers, and they boost the immune system. They also provide an energy boost, are beneficial for the skin, and make it easier to reach our recommended "five fruits and vegetables a day."
Fermented beverages
Obtained using a fermentation process, they are slightly carbonated, low in sugar and rich in probiotics and vitamins that boost the immune system.
The most famous ones are:
- Kombucha: a mixture of tea and kombucha - a “symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast!” It affects digestion and blood pressure.
- Kefir – whether made with milk, water, or fruit – contains kefir grains. It is rich in protein, B vitamins, and folic acid.
- Ginger ale, made from ginger, is rich in antioxidants.
Energy drinks
These drinks provide short-term mental and physical stimulation. They generally contain caffeine or amino acids such as taurine, or plant extracts like guarana or ginseng. They are effective in combating fatigue and increasing concentration and productivity.
However, be careful: consuming them requires vigilance. Opt for drinks with a low caffeine content and check the other ingredients. In particular, avoid mixing them with alcohol and always consume them in moderation. Otherwise, they can be dangerous to your health, as they can lead to addiction and heart problems.
MushUp Functional Coffees
Thanks to their adaptogenic mushrooms, MushUp coffees are true functional beverage options that offer a different coffee experience: immune system boosting, antioxidants, anti-cancer properties, stimulating, calming… our Reishi, Cordyceps, Chagas, “Turkey Tails” and “Ligern Hydnum” offer you a true health concentrate!
Take a break and, depending on the time of day, choose from our wide range of MushUp coffees !
