What Nutritionists Think About Wellness Shots and Single Serves
Wellness shots and single serves may seem like a recent trend, but the fact is they've been around for centuries. These shots all come with a variety of promises--they'll boost your metabolism and help you lose weight, they'll boost your energy and help you ride out the day, or they'll boost your immunity and help you stay healthy.
Is there any truth to these claims? The folks at Delish.com asked these licensed nutritionists to weigh in with their findings.
- Maya Feller, MS, RD, CDN of Maya Feller Nutrition
- Vandana Sheth, RDN, CDCES, FAND, registered dietitian and author of My Indian Table: Quick & Tasty Vegetarian Recipes
- Jonathan Valdez, owner of Genki Nutrition and Media Spokesperson for New York State Academy of Nutrition and Dietetic
Turmeric/Cur-cumin Shots
Turmeric is well-known for its inflammation-fighting properties, primarily because of the cur-cumin that is found in it.
"Cur-cumin is known to serve as an anti-oxidative and has anti-inflammatory properties. Cur-cumin may suppress pro-inflammatory pathways related to most chronic diseases." -Maya Feller
"Interestingly, adding some black pepper to the mix can significantly enhance the activation and absorption of the cur-cumin." -Vandana Sheth
Ginger Lemon & Cayenne Shots
The mix of ginger, lemon, and cayenne is often touted as an immunity booster that will help ward off the common cold.
"Capsaicin, the active ingredient in cayenne, has been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects. However, inflammation is a natural part of the body's immune response and this effect would theoretically not help prevent the common cold." -Jonathan Valdez
"Lemons and other citrus fruits are a good source of the antioxidant vitamin C. Research has shown that vitamin C can help reduce the duration and severity of the common cold." -Maya Feller
Wheatgrass Shots
Wheatgrass is regarded as a super potent health food with amazing benefits, such as protecting the body from colds, toxins, and harmful molecules.
"Some studies show wheatgrass contains immuno-stimulating effects, but further research is needed as these have not been replicated." -Jonathan Valdez
(That said, Maya Feller does say that the antioxidants in wheatgrass [vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E, iron, magnesium, calcium, and chlorophyll] help protect the body from cellular damage and oxidative stress.)
Apple Cider Vinegar Shots
Apple cider vinegar has zero calories and a bunch of antioxidants, which makes it good for blood sugar management.
"Drinking it straight up can be dangerous as it can cause damage to your teeth and esophagus. Instead of drinking a shot, I suggest that my clients use it as a part of a salad dressing at a meal." -Vandana Sheth
Tart Cherry Juice
Tart cherry juice contains high amounts of vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin K, manganese, potassium, and other antioxidants. In addition to being an anti-inflammatory, cherry juice is also believed to be a natural sleep aid.
"Tart cherries contain high concentrations of melatonin. A 2019 narrative review study linked tart cherry juice to improved sleep duration and quality when consuming before bedtime." -Maya Feller
Source: Delish.com – Here’s What Nutritionists Think About The 5 Most Popular Kinds of Wellness Shots
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