Can adaptogens help with stress and focus? Yes, they can. Research shows that natural compounds like L-Theanine and Ashwagandha support stress management, improve focus, and promote relaxation without drowsiness. Here's a quick summary of the findings:
- What are adaptogens? Natural substances used to help the body manage physical and mental stress.
- How do they work? They regulate stress hormones (like cortisol) and support mood-enhancing neurotransmitters (like serotonin).
- Proven results: 71% of users reported feeling more relaxed after consuming adaptogen-based products.
- Functional drinks: Products like IMPOSSIBREW®'s Social Blend™ combine adaptogens with ingredients like Vitamin B1 for stress relief and focus, offering an alcohol-free alternative.
With growing interest in functional beverages, adaptogens are paving the way for stress relief and improved mental clarity. While promising, further research is needed to optimise dosages, improve absorption, and personalise benefits.
Adaptogens: What Are They & Do They Work?
How Adaptogens Affect the Body
Recent research sheds light on how adaptogens influence the body's stress response. These natural compounds help the body manage both physical and mental stress. Studies, including those led by Dr Paul Chazot from Durham University, suggest that specific adaptogens play a role in keeping the body balanced during stressful situations.
Effects on the Stress Response System
Adaptogens interact with the body's regulatory systems, particularly the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. This interaction helps adjust the body's response to stress, aiding in maintaining stable hormone levels even during challenging times.
Stress Hormone Balance
Adaptogens are known to support stress hormone regulation by helping to manage cortisol levels and boosting neurotransmitters that improve mood. Ingredients like L-Theanine and Ashwagandha are widely recognised for their calming properties.
Here’s a quick look at how adaptogens can impact the body:
| Adaptogenic Effect | Physiological Impact |
|---|---|
| Serotonin Support | Helps improve mood and maintain emotional balance |
| Cortisol Regulation | Supports balanced stress hormone levels |
| Relaxation Response | Promotes calmness without causing drowsiness |
Research Findings on Effectiveness
Recent meta-analyses suggest that certain compounds can help ease stress and encourage relaxation. This aligns with the formulation approach behind Social Blend™, created in partnership with Dr Paul Chazot, a Bioscience Professor and Chair of Pharmacology at Durham University.
Key Ingredients in Focus
Social Blend™ includes two well-researched ingredients: L-Theanine and Ashwagandha. L-Theanine is known for promoting a sense of calm, while Ashwagandha is commonly used to support stress management.
"Social Blend™ is our proprietary alcohol alternative made from a blend of science-backed ingredients using patent-pending technology. Designed to replicate the sensory and social relaxing experience of drinking, minus the headaches (and bad decisions)." - IMPOSSIBREW® [1]
Comparing Results
The findings highlight how Social Blend™ combines these ingredients effectively. By integrating L-Theanine, Ashwagandha Root, and Vitamin B1, the formulation is designed to encourage relaxation and reduce stress, making it a functional addition to beverages.
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Use in Functional Drinks
Research has paved the way for incorporating adaptogens into functional drinks aimed at promoting stress relief and improving focus - all without compromising on flavour. These beverages combine science-backed ingredients to create products that are both effective and enjoyable.
Research-Based Ingredients
IMPOSSIBREW®'s Social Blend™, created alongside Dr Paul Chazot, a Bioscience Professor and Chair of Pharmacology at Durham University, is a standout example. This blend includes L-Theanine, Ashwagandha Root, Vitamin B1, and plant extracts, all carefully formulated to maximise absorption and interaction between ingredients. This science-led approach forms the foundation of their entire product range.
A survey involving over 1,000 participants revealed the following outcomes [1]:
| Outcome | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Felt more relaxed | 71% |
| Reduced alcohol intake | 88% |
| Recommended IMPOSSIBREW® to a friend | 95% |
IMPOSSIBREW® Product Line
IMPOSSIBREW® has turned adaptogen research into reality with its range of enhanced beverages. Using cryogenic fermentation, they achieve a rich, authentic flavour while protecting the active botanical ingredients. This commitment to quality was recognised with a Gold Medal in the No/Low beer category at the London Beer Competition.
One of their standout products, the Enhanced Lager, starts at £3.49 and has been praised by consumers for being a well-rounded alcohol alternative. In fact, three-quarters of users have described it as "the most complete alcohol alternative currently available on the market today" [1]. The lager is also gluten-free, containing less than 10 parts per million of gluten, making it suitable for those with dietary restrictions while still offering stress-relief benefits.
Research Gaps and Next Steps
Missing Research Areas
While progress has been made in adaptogen research, several key areas remain unexplored. These gaps are outlined in the table below:
| Research Gap | Current Challenge | Impact on Understanding |
|---|---|---|
| Dosage Optimisation | Limited data on personalised dosing | Uncertainty around ideal amounts for individuals |
| Bioavailability | Lack of studies on delivery methods | Unclear absorption rates across different formats |
| Individual Variation | Few insights into genetic factors | Limited knowledge on why responses vary |
These challenges highlight the need for further research to refine and improve adaptogen-based drink formulations.
Advancing Functional Drink Formulations
To push the boundaries of adaptogenic beverages, these gaps must be addressed. Researchers, including Dr Paul Chazot, are working to enhance the performance of adaptogenic compounds in drinks. This builds on existing advancements, such as the work seen in IMPOSSIBREW®'s Social Blend™ technology, which serves as a foundation for future developments.
Key areas for future research include:
- Understanding how individual biology influences adaptogen effectiveness
- Developing precise dosage recommendations tailored to personal factors
- Creating better delivery systems to improve how adaptogens are absorbed
The next steps in research focus on personalisation, taking into account factors like genetics, diet, and existing health conditions. This personalised approach aims to make adaptogenic drinks more effective in reducing stress and improving focus. It also builds on the current achievement of helping 88% of users cut back on alcohol consumption [1].
Summary
Studies show that ingredients like L-Theanine and Ashwagandha can help manage stress, improve focus, and encourage a sense of calm - key features of IMPOSSIBREW®'s Social Blend™ technology.
The results speak for themselves: 71% of users reported feeling more relaxed, data from 52 randomised, double-blind studies back the formulation, and 88% reduced their alcohol intake [1]. Adding to its credibility, IMPOSSIBREW® received a Gold Medal at the 2023 World Beer Awards for its non-alcoholic Lager and Pale Ale [1].
FAQs
How do adaptogens like L-Theanine and Ashwagandha help with reducing stress and improving focus?
Adaptogens such as L-Theanine and Ashwagandha are believed to support stress management and enhance focus by interacting with the body's stress response system. L-Theanine, commonly found in tea, may promote relaxation without causing drowsiness by influencing brain waves and neurotransmitters like GABA. Similarly, Ashwagandha, a traditional herb, is thought to help regulate cortisol levels, the hormone associated with stress, while also supporting mental clarity.
Although research, including meta-analyses, suggests potential benefits, individual results may vary, and further studies are needed to fully understand their effects. Always consult a healthcare professional before introducing new supplements into your routine.
Are there any side effects or things to consider when trying adaptogen-based drinks?
When trying adaptogen-based drinks such as those offered by IMPOSSIBREW®, it’s important to consider how your body may respond to the ingredients. The Social Blend™ in IMPOSSIBREW® includes ingredients like L-Theanine, Ashwagandha Root, and other plant extracts, which are carefully chosen to promote relaxation and focus.
While these ingredients are generally regarded as safe, individual reactions can vary. If you have any pre-existing health conditions, are taking medication, or are pregnant or breastfeeding, it’s always a good idea to consult a healthcare professional before introducing new functional ingredients into your diet.
Can adaptogens be tailored to work more effectively based on individual biology?
The effectiveness of adaptogens can vary between individuals due to differences in biology, such as metabolism, genetics, and overall health. While research suggests that adaptogens like ashwagandha and rhodiola may help reduce stress and improve focus, their impact can depend on factors like age, lifestyle, and specific health conditions.
For a more personalised approach, it’s recommended to consult a healthcare professional who can help determine which adaptogens might best suit your needs. Listening to your body and starting with small doses can also help you gauge their effects.
