Fitness drinks: Scientists weigh in on the benefits and potential risks [Video]

• Functional beverages, which offer mental or physical benefits beyond hydration, are gaining popularity.
• The sale of functional beverages has grown into a multi-billion dollar industry.
• Scientists say that some ingredients, such as adaptogens, can help your body respond to stress, anxiety and fatigue.

Functional beverages — or drinks promoted as offering mental or physical benefits beyond hydration — are growing in popularity around the world. Hundreds of companies have jumped into the market, hoping to get some buzz with trendy and sometimes unfamiliar ingredients.

Here are some of the latest ones found in functional beverages and what scientists say about them.

ADAPTOGENS

Adaptogens are plants and mushrooms that may help your body respond to stress, anxiety and fatigue or enhance feelings of well-being.

KIDS WHO CONSUME ENERGY DRINKS ARE MORE PRONE TO MENTAL HEALTH DISORDERS, STUDY FINDS

Examples include American and Asian ginseng (an herb), ashwagandha (an evergreen shrub), eleuthero (a …