3 functional drinks for more energy and mood

Monday 28 April 2025 09:04
3 functional drinks for more energy and mood

In the world of functional food, some drinks are gaining ground by combining natural ingredients with beneficial effects on health. Among the current favorites are golden milk, ginger shots and the famous detox juice. But do these elixirs of goodness deliver what they promise? Here's what experts say about each of them - and how to include them in your routine with balance.


1. Golden Milk: the natural anti-inflammatory

1. Golden Milk: the natural anti-inflammatory

What it is: An ancient drink from Ayurvedic medicine, made with milk (animal or vegetable), turmeric, ginger, black pepper and sometimes cinnamon or coconut oil.

Main benefits:

  • Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant action: Thanks to the curcumin present in turmeric, which has the potential to reduce chronic inflammation and protect cells against oxidative damage.
  • Improves sleep: When consumed at night, it can help to relax and promote deeper sleep.
  • Supports immunity: The combination of turmeric, ginger and cinnamon helps to strengthen the immune system.

Full recipe ❘ Golden Milk


2. Ginger shot: energy in one sip

2. Ginger shot: energy in one sip

What it is: A pure ginger concentrate, usually combined with lemon, turmeric and/or cayenne pepper. Usually taken in small doses (1-2 fl oz/30-60ml) in the morning.

Main benefits:

  • Stimulation of metabolism: Ginger has a thermogenic effect and can slightly speed up metabolism and promote digestion.
  • Anti-inflammatory and antiviral effect: Great for supporting the immune system, especially during colds.
  • Helps reduce nausea: One of the most recognized uses of ginger, including in clinical contexts.

Full recipe ❘ Ginger Shot


3. Detox juice: lightness and daily cleansing

3. Detox juice: lightness and daily cleansing

What it is: A mixture of vegetables, fruits and herbs with diuretic, antioxidant or digestive properties. It can contain cabbage, cucumber, apple, ginger, lemon, mint, among others.

Main benefits:

  • Antioxidant action: Rich in compounds that help neutralize free radicals and support cellular health.
  • Stimulates the digestive system: Ingredients such as lemon, ginger and mint can aid digestion and relieve bloating.
  • Hydration and slight diuretic effect: Cucumber and celery, for example, help to eliminate excess fluids.

Full recipe ❘ Detox juice


Remember: balance is everything

These drinks can bring benefits - but they are not miracle solutions. They work best when they are part of a balanced diet, rich in fiber, vegetables, quality proteins and good water intake.

What's more, if you have any health conditions (such as gastritis, hypertension, continuous medication use), it's always worth talking to a health professional before including concentrates or actives in large quantities in your routine


Conclusion

The golden milk warms and relaxes, the ginger shot awakens and strengthens, and the detox juice refreshes and balances. Each one has its role - and together they form a powerful trio for those seeking more vitality, with taste and simplicity straight from the kitchen.

Sources:

  • Pounis, G., Bonaccio, M., Di Castelnuovo, A., et al. (2018). Polyphenol intake is associated with lower risk of hypertension. British Journal of Nutrition.
  • Mao, Q. Q., Xu, X. Y., Cao, S. Y., et al. (2019). Bioactive compounds and bioactivities of ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe). Foods
  • Hewlings, S. J., & Kalman, D. S. (2017). Curcumin: A review of its' effects on human health. Foods


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MirellaMirella
I am the editorial manager at Petitchef (Portugal and Brazil) and a huge enthusiast of travel and world cuisine, always in search of new flavors and experiences. However, as much as I love exploring the delights of different cultures, my mom's cooking will always be my favorite — with that unique flavor that only she can create.