In the wellness realm, quick fixes are often frowned upon. Crash diets? No way. Restrictive cleanses? Absolutely not. Yet, I've been exploring wellness shots, which are aptly named for their concentrated health benefits. Unlike alcohol shots, these tiny drinks aim to enhance your well-being.
My curiosity sparked when I noticed influencers chugging colorful liquids claiming to boost immunity and energy. Their routines seemed simple: open a bottle, down it, and grimace? Intrigued, I set out to discover whether wellness shots truly live up to the hype.
Here's a closer look at the wellness shot trend, along with my reviews of seven popular options.
Featured image from our interview with Kimberly Snyder by Teal Thomsen.
What Are Wellness Shots?
Wellness shots are small, concentrated beverages (usually 2 oz or less) packed with nutrient-dense ingredients like ginger, turmeric, lemon, and various fruits rich in antioxidants.
These shots aim to enhance your nutrient intake. However, as Mara Weber, RD, LD from a leading medical center points out, research backing these claims is limited.
While consuming healthy ingredients is beneficial, wellness shots aren't substitutes for whole foods. We stress the importance of whole, unprocessed foods. Still, in our busy lives, wellness shots can help fill nutritional gaps when needed.
Interested in improving gut health? Check out our guide for helpful tips.
How Often Should You Take a Wellness Shot?
Consistency is crucial for any wellness practice. Dietitian May Zhu suggests taking a wellness shot every few days to weekly for optimal benefits.
Ultimately, view wellness shots as an addition to your diet, not a replacement for nourishing foods.
7 Wellness Shots, Tested and Reviewed
To evaluate the wellness shot market, I tested several well-known brands and those trending on social media. Below are my insights on taste and effectiveness, including a standout shot I consumed daily for three weeks.
Freshest Flavor: Broc Shot Ginger + Lime
Initially, I was unsure about the taste of these shots. The name suggests broccoli, and at first, that's what I tasted. However, after three weeks of daily use, I began to appreciate the ginger and lime flavors, making it a pleasant routine.
Notable Observations:
- Clearer Skin: After struggling with hormonal acne, I noticed significant improvement in my skin after two weeks.
- Increased Regularity: I was surprised by a boost in my digestive health, leading to regular morning bowel movements.
Additionally, Broc Shot's packaging is impressive, featuring a dosing cap that keeps the ingredients fresh until use.
- Serving Size: 1 fl oz
- Calories: 5
- Key Ingredients: Broccoli Sprouts Powder, Organic Evaporated Cane Sugar, Water
- Certified: Non-GMO, Vegan, Dairy-Free, Gluten-Free, Soy-Free, Kosher, Preservative-Free
Broc Shot Ginger + Lime (10 Pack)
This shot supports detox, boosts immunity, and enhances gut health with 15mg of Sulforaphane.
Most Noticeable Results: So Good So You Detox Coconut Lime Organic Cold-Pressed Probiotic Juice Shot
Given my past experiences with spirulina, I anticipated disliking this shot. Surprisingly, its piña colada flavor is delightful, combining coconut with kiwifruit and lime.
This shot proved effective after a weekend of indulgence. I took it before bed and woke up feeling refreshed and bloat-free.
- Serving Size: 1.7 fl oz
- Calories: 15
- Key Ingredients: Organic Coconut Water, Lime Juice, Kiwifruit Powder, Blue Spirulina
- Certified: Organic, Preservative-Free, Non-GMO
So Good So You Detox Coconut Lime Organic Cold-Pressed Probiotic Juice Shot
This shot is ideal for enhancing antioxidants and resetting after indulgent meals.
Best Flavor: Vive Organic Brain + Immunity Wellness Shot
The ingredient list hinted at a delicious taste, and it did not disappoint. Blueberry and pear juices provide sweetness, while green tea and ginkgo leaf add a slight bitterness. After trying it once, I felt a noticeable boost in focus.
- Serving Size: 2 fl oz
- Calories: 25
- Key Ingredients: Organic Blueberry Juice, Organic Lemon Juice, Organic Flaxseed Oil Powder, Organic Ginkgo Leaf Extract, Organic Green Tea Extract
- Certified: Organic, Non-GMO
Vive Organic Brain + Immunity Wellness Shot
This shot promotes cognitive function and immune health while delivering 100% DV of Vitamin C and B.
Best for Fighting a Cold: Remedy Organics HEAL Shot
Having enjoyed Remedy's smoothies, I began taking these shots at the first signs of a cold. Combining this with rest and hydration, I avoided getting sick altogether. The spicy ginger and lemon flavor is invigorating and not overwhelming.
Serving Size: 2 fl oz
- Calories: 25
- Key Ingredients: Organic Ginger Juice, Organic Lemon Juice, Organic Cayenne Pepper, Organic Honey
- Certified: Organic, Dairy-Free, Gluten-Free, Non-GMO, Kosher, Soy-Free
Remedy Organics HEAL Shot (24 Pack)
This immune-boosting shot features ginger, turmeric, and lemon to support your health.
Best Immunity-Boosting: Suja Immunity Elderberry Shot
Elderberry is renowned for its immune-boosting properties, rich in antioxidants and vitamins. This shot is a smart choice for anyone looking to enhance their immune system.
Numerous reviews highlight improved immunity and recovery from illness after regular use. Some users report nausea when taken on an empty stomach, so starting slow is advised.
- Serving Size: 2 fl oz
- Calories: 20
- Key Ingredients: Organic Chamomile Tea, Organic Blueberry Puree, Organic Elderberry Extract, Organic Turmeric Juice
- Certified: Organic, Non-GMO, Cold-Pressed
Suja Immunity Elderberry Shot (20 Pack)
This shot combines elderberry, zinc, and probiotics for immunity and gut health support.
Best for Beginners: Elixir Shots Coco Radiance Cacao Wellness Shot
This shot stands out with ingredients like peppermint and cacao, along with lion's mane mushroom, known for its cognitive benefits. It offers clean energy without jitters, enhancing mood and mental clarity.
- Serving Size: 2 fl oz
- Calories: 50
- Key Ingredients: Cacao, Oat Milk, Lions Mane, Coconut, Peppermint
- Certified: Organic, Cold-Pressed
Elixir Shots Coco Radiance Cacao Wellness Shot (12 Pack)
A great starting point for wellness shots, with easily consumable ingredients that provide energy.
Best for Workout Recovery: Splendid Spoon Recovery Shot
Known for their ready-to-eat meals, Splendid Spoon also offers impressive wellness shots. Slightly larger than others, these shots blend watermelon, beets, and cherries, making them ideal before or after workouts.
- Serving Size: 3 fl oz
- Calories: 25
- Key Ingredients: Watermelon Juice, Cherry Juice, Beet Juice, Lemon Juice, Ginger Juice
- Certified: Information not available
This tasty shot can help alleviate muscle soreness and prepare you for your next workout.
