In 2024, the beverage industry experienced a seismic shift. For decades, the market was dominated by drinks designed to rev us up—caffeine-loaded energy drinks and sugary sodas meant to power us through the 3 PM slump. But as we moved into late 2024 and early 2025, a new desire emerged from the collective burnout of the post-pandemic world: we don’t want to speed up anymore. We want to slow down.
Enter the era of “Calm Sodas”—magnesium-infused sparkling waters and functional beverages that promise relaxation without intoxication.
From the viral “Sleepy Girl Mocktail” on TikTok to the shelves of Whole Foods, magnesium is having a massive PR moment. But is this just another wellness fad, or is there legitimate science behind the fizz? This article dives deep into the magnesium miracle, the market trends driving this explosion, and why your next soda might just be “nature’s chill pill.”
The Rise of the “Anti-Energy” Drink
The data is clear: the “sober curious” movement is no longer a niche; it is the new normal. According to 2025 market reports, sales of non-alcoholic functional beverages have surged by over 20% year-over-year, with a specific spike in beverages claiming “relaxation,” “mood support,” and “stress relief.”
Consumers are trading their evening glass of wine for functional mocktails. They are swapping their afternoon espresso for adaptogenic sparkling waters. The driver? A collective desire to manage cortisol levels and protect nervous system health.
Why “Calm” Sodas?
- Alcohol Replacement: A way to unwind socially without the hangover or “hangxiety.”
- Stress Management: A bio-hack to lower cortisol after a high-stress workday.
- Sleep Hygiene: A ritual to signal to the body that it is time to rest.
The Science of the “Chill Mineral”: Why Magnesium?
Magnesium is often referred to by nutritionists as “nature’s Valium.” It is an essential mineral responsible for over 300 enzymatic reactions in the human body, yet studies suggest that nearly 50% of adults in the US and UK are magnesium deficient.
When you drink a magnesium-infused soda, you aren’t just hydrating; you are engaging in a chemical process of de-escalation for your nervous system.
1. The GABA Connection
Magnesium plays a critical role in supporting GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid), the primary inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain. Think of GABA as the brakes on your nervous system. When GABA is low, your brain is stuck in “on” mode—racing thoughts, anxiety, and restlessness. Magnesium binds to and stimulates GABA receptors, helping your brain downshift into relaxation.
2. Regulating the HPA Axis
Chronic stress keeps your HPA axis (hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis) overactive, pumping out cortisol. Magnesium acts as a natural blocker to the HPA axis, preventing the over-release of stress hormones.
3. Melatonin Production
You cannot sleep if you cannot relax. Magnesium helps regulate the production of melatonin, helping to synchronize your body’s internal clock (circadian rhythm) for deeper, more restorative sleep.
Not All Magnesium Is Created Equal: A Buyer’s Guide
One of the biggest pitfalls for consumers jumping on this trend is choosing the wrong type of magnesium. If you grab a cheap magnesium drink, you might end up in the bathroom rather than asleep.
Here is the hierarchy of magnesium used in functional beverages in 2025:
| Magnesium Type | Best For | Bioavailability | The “Vibe” |
| Magnesium L-Threonate | Brain Health & Focus | High | The “Smart Calm.” The only form shown to cross the blood-brain barrier efficiently. |
| Magnesium Glycinate | Sleep & Anxiety | High | The “Sleepytime Hero.” Gentle on the stomach, highly relaxing. |
| Magnesium Citrate | Digestion & Calm | Medium | The “Double-Edged Sword.” Calming, but has a laxative effect at high doses. |
| Magnesium Oxide | Basic Supplementation | Low | The “Waste of Money.” Poorly absorbed, mostly used in cheap supplements. |
Pro Tip: Premium brands like Recess utilize Magnesium L-Threonate for cognitive calm, while DIY mocktail recipes often call for Magnesium Glycinate powder.
The Viral Catalyst: TikTok’s “Sleepy Girl Mocktail”
We cannot talk about magnesium sodas without crediting the viral trend that poured gasoline on the fire: the Sleepy Girl Mocktail.
Exploding in popularity in early 2024 and sustaining momentum through 2025, this DIY drink became the Gen Z and Millennial nightcap of choice.
The Anatomy of the Trend
- Base: ½ cup Pure Tart Cherry Juice (Naturally rich in melatonin and tryptophan).
- Active Ingredient: 1 tsp Magnesium Glycinate Powder.
- Mixer: A Prebiotic Soda (e.g., Olipop or Poppi) for flavor and gut health.
Why it worked: It combined ritual with function. It wasn’t just a pill; it was a treat. The combination of magnesium (relaxation) and tart cherry (melatonin) created a legitimate physiological effect that users swore by, driving millions of views and clearing store shelves of magnesium powder.
Market Leaders and Innovations (2024-2025)
The commercial market has responded swiftly to the DIY trend. Here are the heavy hitters defining the “Calm Soda” category right now:
1. Recess (The OG of Calm)
Recess was ahead of the curve, but their Recess Mood line has solidified their dominance.
- Key Ingredients: Magnesium L-Threonate, L-Theanine, Lemon Balm.
- The Promise: “Calm, cool, collected.” It’s less about putting you to sleep and more about taking the edge off social anxiety.
2. TRIP (The CBD + Magnesium Hybrid)
A giant in the UK that is making waves globally, TRIP combines CBD (cannabidiol) with magnesium and botanicals like chamomile.
- The Appeal: It targets the “sober curious” drinker looking for a sophisticated alternative to a gin and tonic.
3. OHMG (Magnesium Water)
A brand dedicated entirely to the mineral. OHMG (Oh My God) water focuses on delivering a high dose (60mg+) of magnesium per can using a “TripleMg” blend (Citrate, Threonate, Glycinate).
- The Appeal: Pure functional hydration without the “soda” feel.
4. Olipop & Poppi (The Mixers)
While primarily “prebiotic sodas” for gut health, these brands have pivoted their marketing to align with the magnesium trend, positioning themselves as the perfect healthy mixer for magnesium powders.
Beyond Sleep: The Broader Benefits of Magnesium Drinks
While sleep is the primary driver, consumers are realizing that magnesium sodas offer daytime benefits too.
1. The “Post-Workout” Soda
Magnesium is critical for muscle recovery. It helps shuttle lactic acid out of muscles and prevents cramping. Fitness enthusiasts are reaching for magnesium waters instead of sugary sports drinks after the gym.
2. Heart Health Support
Recent studies continue to highlight magnesium’s role in maintaining healthy blood pressure and heart rhythm. For the health-conscious demographic, this is a major selling point.
3. PMS Relief
Magnesium levels often drop during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle. Increasing intake can help alleviate cramps, water retention, and mood swings.
Conclusion: Is the Hype Justified?
The “Calm Soda” trend represents a rare intersection where social media virality meets sound nutritional science. Unlike questionable wellness trends (looking at you, chlorophyll water), magnesium has decades of clinical backing supporting its ability to reduce anxiety and improve sleep quality.
As we move through 2025, the “Magnesium Miracle” isn’t just about drinking a soda; it’s about a cultural reclamation of rest. Whether you are mixing up a Sleepy Girl Mocktail or cracking open a can of Recess, drinking your magnesium is arguably the most delicious way to care for your nervous system.
Actionable Takeaway: Look for beverages containing Magnesium Glycinate or L-Threonate. Avoid high amounts of Citrate if you have a sensitive stomach. Start with one drink in the evening to gauge your body’s response.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I drink calm sodas every day?
Yes, for most people, drinking a magnesium-infused soda daily is safe. The recommended daily allowance (RDA) for magnesium is roughly 310–420mg. Most sodas contain between 50mg–150mg, keeping you well within safe limits. However, always check the label for other ingredients like adaptogens or CBD.
2. What is the best magnesium for sleep?
Magnesium Glycinate is widely considered the gold standard for sleep because it is bound to glycine, an amino acid that has its own calming effects. Magnesium L-Threonate is also excellent for quieting a racing mind.
3. Will magnesium drinks make me groggy in the morning?
Generally, no. Unlike melatonin supplements, which can sometimes cause a “hangover” effect, magnesium works by relaxing the nervous system rather than forcing sedation. Most users report waking up feeling refreshed.
4. Are there side effects to drinking magnesium sodas?
The most common side effect is digestive upset (loose stools) if you consume too much magnesium, particularly in the Citrate form. If you experience this, switch to a Glycinate-based drink or lower your dosage.
5. Does the Sleepy Girl Mocktail actually work?
Yes, there is scientific validity to it. Tart cherries contain natural melatonin, and magnesium aids relaxation. The combination can be an effective, non-pharmaceutical sleep aid for many people.
