When it comes to staying hydrated, we all know that water reigns supreme. But if you’re looking for a health-focused beverage that also passes the taste test, there’s now more choice than ever.
The drinks market has undergone a major transformation in recent years, with brands innovating not just for wellness but also with social media in mind — think bold, unexpected flavours, eye-catching packaging, and ingredients designed to pique your interest (and prompt likes) online.
Functional drinks, in particular, are booming among Gen Z, who are increasingly ditching sugary drinks, and even alcohol in favour of beverages that offer targeted health benefits, from gut health to brain function.
The kombucha market alone has seen a 39 per cent surge in growth since the pandemic, while other categories like adaptogenic tonics, nootropic beverages, and electrolyte-infused waters are rapidly gaining traction.
With as many as 76 per cent of UK adults choosing to moderate their alcohol intake, there’s a big market for healthy substitutes. And if you want to get the most bang for your nutritional buck, here’s our pick of the top health categories.
Iced matcha lattes
Iced matcha lattes were once a niche health drink, but with it’s Insta-worthy aesthetic the trend for the gorgeously green caffeine-fuelled drink is going nowhere — in fact social media mentions of matcha have jumped by over 45 per cent in the past year alone.
Health-wise, vibrant green matcha powder is packed with antioxidants — especially EGCG, known for its anti-inflammatory and metabolism-boosting properties, and it’s also considered an adaptogen — a substance that helps the body to adapt to stress.
Furthermore, the fact that match contains the calming amino acid L-theanine means it offers a gentler energy boost compared to coffee, minus any jitters or crash. That noted, although iced matcha lattes are lauded as a superfood, many of the matcha drinks you’ll find on cafe menus are loaded with sweeteners, flavoured syrups, and creamy milks that can turn this health hero into more of a sugary treat, so it’s worth keeping an eye on what’s going into your coffee cup.
Try: Matcha Please Matcha Vanilla
Made with premium latte-grade Uji matcha from Kyoto, this blend offers a cafe-quality energising boost, £16.99 for 10 sachets. matchaplease.com
Kombucha
Kombucha is a naturally fermented tea that has become a favourite gut-friendly beverages. Made by fermenting sweetened tea with a SCOBY (a symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast), kombucha has a distinctively tangy, slightly vinegary flavour with a gentle fizz. It’s rich in probiotics, organic acids, and antioxidants, which may help support digestion, detoxification, and overall gut health.
Thanks to its tea base, kombucha also contains a small amount of caffeine, offering a natural energy lift without the crash.
Often infused with fruits, herbs, or spices, kombucha is a vibrant, refreshing alternative to sugary soft drinks and has quickly become a longstanding staple in the world of functional, fermented wellness drinks.
Try: MOMO Turmeric Kombucha
This earthy kombucha offers anti-inflammatory and gut-healthy properties, £26.50 for six bottles. momo-kombucha.com
Water kefir
Traditional kefir has undergone a modern makeover, and its dairy-free counterpart — water kefir has become a big hit. Just like milk kefir, water kefir is a naturally fermented drink made using kefir grains. However, the two differ in more than just their base ingredients, they vary in taste, nutritional profile, and health benefits.
Water kefir is entirely plant-based, making it both dairy-free and vegan-friendly, and is a suitable alternative for those with lactose intolerance or following a plant-based diet.
Despite its lighter texture and milder flavour compared to milk kefir, it still offers a generous dose of probiotics, which may help support gut health, digestion, and immune function.
Because it’s made with water and natural sugars (rather than milk), water kefir is also a great option for hydration, especially when flavoured with fruits, herbs, or spices.
Try: One Living Strawberry Kefir Water
This fruity drink is a source of gut-friendly live cultures, £20 for 12 cans. oneliving.com
Protein Water
Move over, protein shakes, protein water is the on-trend way to get your macronutrient fix. By blending protein powder with water and natural flavourings, protein water offers a lighter, more refreshing alternative to traditional shakes.
It’s generally easier on the digestive system, making it ideal for those who want the benefits of added protein without the heavy, creamy texture.
It’s often paired with added extras like collagen and extra vitamins and minerals to extend the benefits, so whether you’re rehydrating after a workout or looking for an energising boost during the day, protein water could be a good option.
Try: Warrior Protein Water
Contains collagen along with 10g of protein to fuel muscles. £19.99 for 12 bottles. teamwarrior.com
Electrolyte sachets
Hydration is essential for every system in the body, from regulating temperature and supporting cognitive function to transporting nutrients and keeping organs running smoothly. But staying properly hydrated isn’t just about drinking water. Electrolytes — key minerals like sodium, potassium, and magnesium play a vital role in maintaining fluid balance, nerve function, and muscle performance.
During hot weather, intense workouts, or even just a busy day on the go, the body loses electrolytes through sweat, which can lead to fatigue, cramps, and sluggishness if not replenished.
That’s the premise behind electrolyte-enhanced drinks which are designed to help you hydrate on the move and restore what’s lost, keeping your body functioning at its best. Electrolyte formulas often come in sachets to mix with water that contain added extras like botanical extracts, vitamins and minerals.
Try: Tenplus Electrolyte Sea Salt Lemonade Sachets
Each sachet is made with ingredients that all have proven benefits for hydration and neuro-protective properties. £17.95 for 12 sachets. mytenplus.com
