The pursuit of weight loss and overall well-being has led to a surge in health and wellness trends, many of which gain popularity through social media. Among these trends are the "Morning Duo" and the "Cortisol Cocktail," each claiming unique benefits. This article aims to critically examine these trends, analyze their purported benefits, and provide a balanced perspective based on available evidence.
The Allure of Quick Fixes
In a world saturated with information, the promise of a quick and easy solution to complex health problems like weight loss or stress reduction is undeniably appealing. Influencers and wellness companies often capitalize on this desire, marketing products and regimens that may sound too good to be true. It is crucial to approach such trends with a discerning eye, separating hype from evidence-based information.
The Morning Duo: Aloe Vera and Coffee
The "Morning Duo" involves consuming a cup of aloe vera juice followed by a cup of coffee. Proponents of this trend often share before-and-after photos, attributing weight loss and other health benefits to this combination.
What is the Morning Duo?
The morning duo is drinking a cup of aloe vera followed by a cup of coffee. There are many videos of morning duo devotees sharing before and after photos of their body after implementing the morning duo into daily routine.
The Recipe
The morning duo is one cup of aloe vera followed by one cup of coffee.
Read also: Weight Loss Morning Guide
The "It Works" Connection
Many users promoting the Morning Duo specifically endorse aloe vera juice concentrate and "skinny cold brew" supplements from the brand "It Works," which describes itself as "an industry-leading beauty and nutrition company that empowers people to live the life of their dreams." Morning Duo enthusiasts often consume a serving of It Works' aloe vera juice concentrate in water, followed by the brand's skinny cold brew supplement, also mixed with water.
Concerns about "It Works"
"It Works" employs a multi-level marketing (MLM) strategy, which has raised concerns. MLMs often involve selling products to friends and family, primarily through social media, and recruiting others to do the same. Some MLMs have been criticized for making false health claims and exploiting vulnerable individuals. Whether "It Works" is a legitimate brand or a pyramid scheme requires careful evaluation by medical experts.
Aloe Vera Juice: Potential Benefits
Aloe vera juice does exist and can be purchased at popular retailers like CVS and Target. It is safe to drink daily and similar to coffee, the beverage does offer some health benefits.
The "Cortisol Cocktail": A Stress-Reducing Elixir?
The internet's current obsession with cortisol has prompted a new trending concoction dubbed the "cortisol cocktail" that users claim can reduce stress and even help with weight loss. Also referred to as an "adrenal cocktail," the drink has some variations across social media but mainly consists of orange or lemon juice, coconut water and a bit of sea salt. Experts say there's no evidence this drink can significantly reduce stress or weight by lowering cortisol levels, but the ingredients do offer some nutritional benefits that may give drinkers a boost.
Nutritional Benefits
For example, orange juice contains vitamin C which help support the immune system, coconut water is hydrating and contains potassium (as does cream of tartar, another often featured ingredient of the mix) and sea salt can replenish sodium levels when electrolytes are low. But, you can get these benefits from other avenues like whole foods, which can have additional benefts.
Read also: Unmasking Keto Gummies Claims
Cortisol: Essential, Not Evil
Cortisol often gets a bad reputation, she said, but it's essential for survival. "The key is balancing it effectively rather than attempting to eliminate it. Cortisol levels should naturally change and cycle through the day, ideally with a spike in the morning to help us feel awake and ready to go, and lower in the evening when it's time for sleep," Zender said.
Hormone Imbalance: A Misleading Concept?
Since hormone levels are constantly changing, the idea of a "hormone imbalance" is kind of misleading, said Christine Byrne, dietitian and owner of Ruby Oak Nutrition. "If you think there's something wrong with your hormone levels, it's so, so important to seek the help of an endocrinologist instead of trying to do your own research to diagnose and treat yourself," Byrne said. "Lots of influencers and wellness companies prey off people with difficult-to-diagnose symptoms by blaming these symptoms on vague problems like hormone imbalance or adrenal fatigue, then selling a supposed solution.
No Backing Behind It
"The cortisol cocktail is one of these wellness trends that might sound appealing to people who are looking for a solution to a difficult health problem like stress, but there's just no backing behind it," Byrne said.
Customer Reviews of "It Works" Products: A Mixed Bag
Customer reviews of "It Works" products are varied, with some users reporting positive experiences and others expressing disappointment or concern.
Positive Reviews
Some customers have reported weight loss, increased energy, and improved overall health after using "It Works" products. They attribute these benefits to the supplements and drinks offered by the company.
Read also: Weight loss transformations featured on GMA
"ItWorks has truly changed my life!”I’ve been using ItWorks products for a while now, and I can honestly say they’ve transformed my health and wellbeing. My journey started with StartKick, and from there, everything began to shift in a positive direction. I’ve lost weight, gained energy, and feel healthier than I have in years. Living with fibromyalgia for over 15 years has been incredibly challenging - dealing with chronic pain, fatigue, and brain fog daily. Now that I’ve turned 50, menopause symptoms added another layer of difficulty. But since using these products, I feel like I’ve been given a new lease on life.I can move more, walk longer distances, and even do light exercise - things that used to feel impossible. I’m spending more quality time with my husband and family, and I feel more positive and in control of my health than ever. What I love most is how simple and natural everything is. The supplements are easy to take - in the morning or with larger meals - and I love the Skinny Hydrate drinks. They keep me refreshed with electrolytes and help keep everything in balance.These products have truly helped me feel like me again - stronger, healthier, and full of life!
I purchased this product hoping to lose some weight after my last baby. the products did exactly what they said they would, 3 months in I lost 30 LBs!!! As a mom of 4 I never thought id be this confident and happy not only lost weight but feel so incredible, energy is up gut health is so good!
I absolutely love these products not only have I lost weight but my overall health has improved so much. I love the gummies they are absolutely amazing
Negative Reviews
Other customers have reported negative experiences, including a lack of results, unpleasant side effects (such as nausea, stomach cramps, and bloating), and concerns about the company's business practices. Some customers have also complained about unauthorized charges and difficulties canceling subscriptions.
Expensive with little to no results. I just completed the 90-day supplement plan, which cost $150/month. I am slightly overweight and am/was looking to lose about 15-20 lbs. On this program, I personally did not see any difference whatsoever in my weight. I eat fairly healthy and exercise (lift weights 2x/week and walk 10-15,000 steps per day). I took all of the supplements as directed and it was a waste of money for me. Perhaps this program works better for those seeking to lose a larger amount of weight and/or who also choose to follow the designated meal plan. For me it was just a waste of $450.
Products are very expensive and I had no noticeable results. I tried the BRN, TFXX, clense and gummies. Spent over £300 over 3 months. My advice to people considering these Products is not to bother.
I purchased the weight control bundle but I had to stop about 2 weeks in, it made me extremely sick with stomach pains. I paid way over $125 for it and ended up not getting any "promised" results from the distributor, sales reps that pressure you into making big purchases is also a HUGE peeve of mine. After purchasing it, I never heard from her again. She did not check up on me. I got charged for an additional fee, which the sales rep did not inform me about, so I reached out to her and she blamed her personal life getting in the way of being a terrible distributor/sales rep. The whole experience was NOT WORTH MY TIME OR MONEY. SAVE YOUR MONEY AND GO ELSEWHERE!!
Makes you sick. Was not told it would be a subscription. Luckily I found where it was showing my next shipment and got it cancelled even though I had fo pay $34 to cancel the membership. The products make me SICK. Stomach cramps, nausea, diarrhea, bloating. Wasted money on junk that I can't return or get refunded on. Avoid at all costs! .
This company and its products are terrible! The amount of pressure they put on distributors is ridiculous and they lie. She’d told me when I sent out the invites to tell everyone there’d be a free giveaway at the end of the party, there was not. When I asked her about it she told me “oh that was just a line to get ppl to the party”. She also continued to pressure me to pressure my family to buy more, “you’re growing a business and your family should support that”. They also held several zoom meetings throughout the week, if I was unable to join she would text me about how disappointed she was in me for not taking my business seriously. The toxicity was unbearable! Further more the products side effects were awful!! They ranged from terrible bloating and gas, to heartburn and severe migraines. I specifically used their new “natures ozimpec” Burn, the skinny gummies, flat and the skinny wrap (which had me breaking out in hives). Be very cautious when trying any of their products and whatever you do don’t buy into the whole “make lots money easy from your phone” gimmick!
products dont work , way to expensive. I had terrible bloating and its not natural artificial sweetness are not natural. Some keto coffee for 80 plus , and isn't coffee already considered keto lol, crazy scammers the owner is s creepy guy who is money hungry taking advantage of poor fat ladies, if they lost weights its cuz they tell you to follow a diet well duh they are going to loose weight, bad haven't lost nothing gained weight actually from all the fake sweeteners and chemicals.
Expired Products and Unprofessional Behavior
Some customers have reported receiving expired products and encountering rude or unprofessional behavior from "It Works" representatives.
They sent me expired medicine this is…They sent me expired medicine this is 7/2024 BRN+and this wasn't cheap. Not too happy about it and I've already canceled my subscription so they wouldn't give me a refund but I didn't know it was expired until I was just looking at it. The date is 07/2024
Rude workers!!An It Works ambassador messaged me multiple times constantly over the span of a few days asking me to work for them and to buy products. I said no 3 times and then she continued to disrespect me over iMessage. I am a teenager and mocked me for having my parents pay, and made fun of me for asking questions that “she already said.” This lady was EXTREMELY rude and I will not be recommending this company. It Works, please do better.
The Importance of Critical Evaluation
The conflicting customer reviews highlight the importance of critically evaluating claims made by companies and individuals promoting health and wellness products. It is essential to consider the source of information, look for scientific evidence, and consult with healthcare professionals before making decisions about your health.
Alternative Approaches to Weight Loss and Well-being
While trends like the "Morning Duo" and "Cortisol Cocktail" may offer some nutritional benefits or temporary boosts, sustainable weight loss and overall well-being are best achieved through a combination of evidence-based strategies:
- Balanced Diet: Focus on consuming whole, unprocessed foods, including fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains. Limit your intake of sugary drinks, processed snacks, and unhealthy fats.
- Regular Exercise: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic exercise per week, along with strength training exercises at least two days per week.
- Stress Management: Practice relaxation techniques such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises. Get enough sleep and prioritize activities that bring you joy.
- Professional Guidance: Consult with a registered dietitian, certified personal trainer, or other healthcare professional to develop a personalized plan that meets your individual needs and goals.
The Role of Supplements
While some supplements may offer certain health benefits, they should not be considered a substitute for a healthy diet and lifestyle. It is essential to research supplements thoroughly, choose reputable brands, and consult with a healthcare professional before taking any new supplements.
Berberine
Berberine HCI (500 mg), a natural alkaloid which has been scientifically shown to help support healthy blood sugar levels, a healthy metabolism and to facilitate comfortable digestion.
GloSlim + StressAdapt
GloSlim + StressAdaptStop the stress-fat weight gain cycle with this unique combination of West African spicefruit extract and Ashwagandha. Study participants taking spicefruit on average experienced a weight reduction of nearly 14 pounds and a 5.3% reduction in body fat in 8 weeks.* Sensoril Ashwagandha and the other adaptogens included in this formula are clinically shown to help reduce the feelings of stress and improve sleep.
Detoxification: Separating Fact from Fiction
The concept of "detoxification" is often promoted by wellness companies, with claims that certain products or diets can eliminate toxins from the body and improve health. However, the human body has its own efficient detoxification systems, primarily involving the liver and kidneys. While supporting these organs through a healthy diet and lifestyle is beneficial, there is limited scientific evidence to support the use of specific "detox" products or diets.
Detox Trio
The Detox Trio is our best-selling whole-body cleanse. This three-step program includes ingredients traditionally used to target parasites and their harmful effects.
Parasite Formula
Mix 3 half-droppers full into 1 ounce of water first thing in the morning on an empty stomach for 7 days. Week 2: Same routine in the morning, plus repeat before or after dinner. Do this for 3 weeks, then take one week off. Continue for at least 4 bottles then repeat every 3-4 months or until symptoms disappear. For children 5 and older: Use 1 drop for each year of the child’s age mixed into 1 ounce of water in the morning. For example, a 7-year-old would get 7 drops. Continue until the bottle is used up. An easy way to measure 1 ounce of water is by using a shot glass. Use for 3 weeks then take one week off. (Ladies, your week off should be the week of your cycle.) For best results continue for 3-4 months or until symptoms are gone. An easy way to measure 1 ounce of water is by using a shot glass.
Colon Cleanse
Start with 3 capsules before or after dinner with a large glass of water. If you don’t see an increase in your bowel movements by the next day increase by one capsule. Do this until you find your ideal dosage. Most customers require anywhere from 2-7 capsules per dosage. This product is not intended for daily use. Most people see their desired results when taken 3 to 5 times a week.
Start with three half-droppers full mixed into an ounce of water (an ounce of water is about the size of a shot glass) first thing in the morning on an empty stomach and again in the evenings before dinner. Once symptoms improve, take once a day or once every other day.
We recommend at least 3-4 months or longer and repeat every other month or when symptoms reappear. You must remember that cleaning and eliminating parasites and their eggs does not happen overnight. We always suggest that you check with your doctor first. Do this for 3 weeks and rest for 1 week. For women, it is best to take the time off when menstruating begins. The colon cleansers are to be taken no more than 3-4 times a week. Start with 2-3 capsules preferably before dinner with a large glass of water and you should eliminate the next morning. By noon, if you see no difference then the next evening, take 4-5 with another large glass of water. Continue to increase until you see a difference.
Organic Tea Leaves
As you use the Organic Tea Leaves to encourage liver function, you can support blood sugar balance naturally and be free from all extremes.