If you're knowledgeable about the health industry you've probably noticed the various approaches people are using to improve their immunity or increase their vitality. Long-term health is aided by eating a balanced diet and leading an active lifestyle but occasionally we may require a little extra support like a wellness shot.
Let’s take a look at how wellness shots may support immunity, and energy, plus boost metabolism naturally.
What Is a Wellness Shot?
A wellness shot is a 1–2-ounce drink that may contain fruits, vegetables, herbs, spices, and other plants powered by naturally occurring phytochemicals and antioxidants to support one’s health and wellness. Pretty smart — all of that nutrition in a little liquid shot!
This little mini can be part of taking healthier steps to support your immune system since some shots provide some amazing phytonutrients like turmeric, plant roots such as ginger, and fresh antioxidant-rich fruits like elderberry, blueberries, and more. Sounds delicious, right? So let’s read on.
Potential Benefits of Ingredients
Many companies speak of the benefits that their wellness shots may provide for you, such as boosting energy, increasing your immunity, and helping to aid in digestion and detoxification, but it is important to know that these shots are not a magic bullet that will solely remedy your health.
However, by adding some of these naturally derived nutrients via a wellness shot once or more daily may be a welcomed complement to a balanced diet. They are not only convenient to take with you on the go, but these mighty shots may be an adjunct to power up your morning or stave off the mid-afternoon slump. They are also easily digested and the nutrients are readily absorbed.
Let's examine the potential health benefits of a few of the components that are frequently used in wellness shots.
Turmeric
The nutritional value of this vividly colored spice is equally striking. Turmeric and its naturally occurring active polyphenol (powerful antioxidant), curcumin, add a flavorful punch to any beverage or meal. Because curcumin is not very bioavailable to the body, a substance in black pepper called piperine, when combined with it, increases absorption by nearly 2000%.1 Turmeric is widely recognized for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Curcumin also provides some protection against free radicals and may be able to help combat oxidative stress in the body.1
Ginger
Most people associate this root with adding a little zing to meals, but it may also provide some health benefits. You see, gingerol, a natural component of ginger, has been touted as aiding gastrointestinal (GI) motility, or the movement of food through the gastrointestinal tract.2 Ginger aids digestion by allowing the stomach to empty properly and on time, reducing nausea.
Ginger may also support gut health by reducing GI distress, such as bloating by breaking down the gases that begin to ferment after a meal.2 Ginger also contains anti-inflammatory compounds, which may support our health; however, more research is needed.
Blueberries
One of the healthiest fruits in nature is the blueberry. This superfood is high in antioxidants in addition to fiber and vitamins C and K. If you have ever had the pleasure of picking blueberries as a child (or even as an adult), you are aware of how delightful these tiny berries are on their own and how well they pair with a variety of dishes and beverages.
Antioxidants called anthocyanins are abundant in blueberries. In addition to a well-balanced diet, blueberries may help prevent oxidative stress-related damage in the body.3 Keep in mind that it is a smart move to consider wellness shots that use organic blueberries and other organic ingredients.
Elderberry
The tiny purple berry that grows on the elder tree can be dated back to the time of Hippocrates when it was used to promote healing. The elderberry is rich in antioxidants, and phytonutrients like polyphenols.4 We continue to recognize the elderberry’s potential health benefits today as it may help to halt free radical damage and support heart health.4 Research on elderberry’s potential to strengthen the immune system is ongoing.
Cayenne Pepper
Cayenne is more than just another pretty pepper. This fiery red pepper brings a lot of heat to the table. Cayenne pepper contains capsaicin, a naturally occurring component of the pepper that causes the body to literally feel the heat. This is called thermogenesis, where there is an increase in the calories being ‘burned up’ and may help to boost metabolism naturally and even support fat burning.5 Adding some cayenne pepper to a wellness shot may be just that extra kick you need to get moving and feel a little healthy heat!
Wholesome Ingredients — What To Look For In a Wellness Shot
Your Healthful Checklist
- Labeling: Look to see that the product is USDA organic, which means all of the ingredients and the way it was grown supports pure organic methods.
- Science: Understand the science that went into developing and producing your wellness shots. Look for credible credentials, such as Medical Professionals like Medical Doctors (MDs) or even Registered Dietitians (RDs) who are the geniuses behind the tasty juices.
- Cold-pressured production: This process rocks! It helps to maintain the natural vitamins, minerals and fiber without adding heat which can damage the essential nutrients that we expect to have safely delivered.
- Non-GMO: Pass on the genetically modified organisms. Who needs that? Looking for non-GMO on the label is an excellent sign to show that the company understands and cares about what it puts in the hands of their consumers.
- No sugar added: It is as simple as that. You do not want any added sugars, corn or high fructose corn syrups added to your wellness shot.
- Sustainability: A nice touch and lets us know that the company’s mission and process takes into account the well-being of our environment. For example, recyclable plastic bottles can totally help to reduce garbage on our land.
Finally, we want to wish you well on your journey to wellness and support you as you keep inspiring each other to be conscious of your diets, lifestyles, and ways to live in unison with the environment and one another.
Disclaimer: This blog contains promotional content about our products. The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. While the nutritional information and health tips shared here are based on published studies and expert insights, they should not replace advice and treatment from a healthcare professional. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or health objectives.
References
- Hewlings, Susan J, and Douglas S Kalman. “Curcumin: A Review of Its Effects on Human Health.” Foods (Basel, Switzerland) vol. 6,10 92. 22 Oct. 2017. https://doi.org/10.3390/foods6100092.
- “Ginger Benefits.” Johns Hopkins Medicine, 4 Oct. 2023. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/ginger-benefits.
- “The Health Benefits of Blueberries.” Cleveland Clinic, 27 June 2024. https://health.clevelandclinic.org/benefits-of-blueberries.
- Sidor, Andrzej, and Anna Gramza-Michałowska. “Advanced Research on the Antioxidant and Health Benefit of Elderberry.” Journal of Functional Foods, vol. 18, Oct. 2015. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jff.2014.07.012.
- “What Is Cayenne Pepper Good for?” Mercola.com. https://foodfacts.mercola.com/cayenne-pepper.html.
