Wind down by drinking up.

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At the end of a long day, what helps you unwind?

What Ingredients Help You Relax?

Cherry juice in a transparent glass and fresh cherries on a white table

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Magnesium- and ashwagandha-based beverages are great for reducing stress, for example.

Low magnesium levels are associated with higher levels of stress, Schneider explains.

Magnesium reduces [stress] by supporting the function of GABA receptors, which are crucial for relaxation.

chamomile flower an d tea

Similarly, ashwagandha is an adaptogen that helps lower cortisol levels while promoting gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptors.

Other ingredients that can help you relax include L-theanine and B-vitamins.

Additionally, verify youre complementing these beverages with a whole-food, plant-predominant diet, Schneider suggests.

Green tea

These strategies have stronger, more consistent evidence for supporting mental well-being over the long term.

Chamomile contains apigenin, an antioxidant that binds to receptors in the brain, promoting relaxation, Schneider notes.

Hot Chocolate

Its not just a seasonal delighthot chocolateis another relaxing beverage that can help soothe you.

Hot chocolate

The cocoa in hot chocolate often contains tryptophan, an essential amino acid that produces serotonin and melatonin.

Cherry juice

warm milk