“Functional” Drinks Promise More Than Just Hydration

The Trend: Years ago, a wellness drink meant a shot of wheatgrass in a funky juice bar. Now, “functional” shots are one of the biggest beverage trends around — and it’s a market that’s expected to grow from $6.6 billion in 2026 to $19 billion by 2033. Functional beverages promise benefits beyond basic nutrition, from helping you focus to boosting your mood. And these shot versions are marketed as convenient, single-dose alternatives pills or powders.

What People Are Saying: Functional drinks have become more popular as more people look for alternatives to alcohol, soda, and energy drinks. Many contain adaptogenic and nootropic ingredients including L-theanine, ashwagandha, and lion’s mane, which are marketed for benefits including focus and relaxation. Others contain vitamins, minerals, CBD, probiotics, and more to improve sleep, energy, immunity — you name it.

What to Know: Even though they’re marketed as being healthy, functional drinks might not be right for everyone. Like supplements, some functional drinks contain ingredients that aren’t closely regulated. Herbal ingredients can interfere with medications, and excessive amounts of certain vitamins and minerals can cause side effects.