Understanding the Ingredients in Trip Drinks
Trip drinks are marketed as sparkling, functional beverages infused with a blend of ingredients intended to promote calm and relaxation. The primary active components include CBD and a selection of adaptogens and botanicals.
Cannabidiol (CBD)
The main active ingredient in Trip is cannabidiol, a non-psychoactive compound derived from the hemp plant. While CBD is generally considered safe and non-addictive, its unregulated status in many regions, including the US, means that the purity and potency of products can vary. In the UK, the Food Standards Agency (FSA) has set a low daily limit for CBD intake for healthy adults due to potential long-term adverse effects on the liver and thyroid.
Adaptogens and Botanicals
In addition to CBD, Trip drinks contain a number of other ingredients that may have health implications, especially with regular use. These often include:
- Ashwagandha: An adaptogen used to help reduce stress and anxiety. While considered safe for short-term use, the long-term safety of ashwagandha is not well-documented and it has been linked to rare cases of liver issues and interactions with medications for diabetes, high blood pressure, and thyroid disorders. Some blends contain magnesium citrate.
- L-theanine: An amino acid found in green tea, known to promote relaxation and mental focus.
- Magnesium: A mineral included in some blends, it contributes to healthy nerves, muscles, and bone function.
- Chamomile and Lemon Balm: Botanicals often associated with calming and sleep-inducing properties.
Potential Risks of Daily Trip Drink Consumption
While marketed as a daily wellness product, several factors must be considered regarding the long-term safety of drinking Trip regularly.
Daily CBD Intake
The most significant risk is consistently exceeding regulatory guidance on CBD intake. In October 2023, the UK's FSA reduced its recommended daily CBD limit for healthy adults from 70mg to just 10mg. This was based on new scientific evidence suggesting a dose-related risk of long-term adverse effects on the liver and thyroid. Given that a single 250ml can of Trip contains approximately 15mg of CBD, consuming one can per day would exceed this new, precautionary guideline. Multiple cans would significantly increase the risk.
Liver Health Concerns
CBD is primarily metabolized in the liver by the cytochrome P450 (CYP450) enzyme system. Regular, high-dose CBD consumption has been shown to elevate liver enzymes, which can be a sign of liver damage. While most over-the-counter CBD products contain lower doses than the pharmaceutical versions used in these studies, the risk of liver issues is cumulative over time, especially with daily use. People with pre-existing liver conditions are at higher risk and should avoid CBD unless under medical supervision.
Drug Interactions
Daily consumption of CBD can interfere with the metabolism of many prescription medications because both use the same CYP450 liver enzymes. This can increase drug concentration in the bloodstream, leading to heightened effects or potential toxicity. Medications that may interact with CBD include:
- Blood thinners (like warfarin)
- Antidepressants
- Epilepsy medications
- Immunosuppressants
- Opioid painkillers
Additionally, ashwagandha can interfere with medications for diabetes, high blood pressure, and thyroid conditions. Anyone on prescription medication should consult a doctor before starting a daily CBD-inclusive routine.
Other Ingredient-Specific Concerns
The inclusion of adaptogens like ashwagandha also comes with considerations for daily use. Long-term safety data is limited, with most studies evaluating use for up to three months. Ashwagandha can cause side effects like drowsiness, stomach upset, and diarrhea, and is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women.
Are Trip drinks safe every day? A comparison
| Aspect | Daily Trip Drink Consumption | Alternative: Occasional Consumption | Alternative: Other Calming Drinks |
|---|---|---|---|
| CBD Dosage | Exceeds UK FSA guideline of 10mg/day with one can, potentially increasing long-term health risks. | Stays within recommended safety limits, minimizing risk of long-term adverse effects. | Varies by product; herbal teas or non-CBD alternatives have no CBD-related risks. |
| Liver Impact | Inhibits CYP450 enzymes daily, potentially increasing long-term risk of elevated liver enzymes or drug interactions, especially at higher doses. | Minimal risk, as the liver can effectively process occasional CBD intake without chronic stress. | No liver enzyme inhibition unless interacting with specific herbal compounds or medications. |
| Ingredient Risks | Ashwagandha's long-term safety is unknown. Daily intake could lead to cumulative side effects or drug interactions. | Allows for intermittent use of adaptogens, reducing the risk of unknown long-term effects and ingredient buildup. | Risks are dependent on the specific herbal ingredients; herbal teas like chamomile are well-researched for daily use. |
| Cost | Regular habit can become costly over time. | Cost-effective and reserved for specific moments of stress or relaxation. | Generally more affordable for a daily beverage. |
| Informed Use | Requires active monitoring of other CBD intake, awareness of drug interactions, and potential liver impacts. | Lower risk, but still requires awareness of interactions, particularly with specific medications or conditions. | Requires minimal consideration beyond personal health and known allergies. |
Is daily consumption necessary for benefits?
Many users report experiencing a sense of relaxation or calm after a single Trip drink. These effects are often attributed to the combined action of CBD and other botanicals. However, it is not scientifically established that these benefits require daily, sustained intake, and for many, the calming effect is experienced after just one serving. Furthermore, some users do not experience the sought-after effect at all, suggesting a degree of placebo effect may be involved.
Is it safe for everyone?
Certain vulnerable groups should explicitly avoid CBD products, including Trip drinks, regardless of frequency. These groups include pregnant and breastfeeding women, children, and individuals taking prescribed medications without consulting a healthcare professional.
Conclusion: The Final Verdict on Daily Trip Drinks
While a single Trip drink is unlikely to cause immediate harm to a healthy adult, daily, long-term consumption raises multiple health considerations, primarily centered around cumulative CBD intake and the long-term effects of adaptogens like ashwagandha. The UK's Food Standards Agency has issued conservative daily limits on CBD, which a single can of Trip exceeds. Potential issues include liver enzyme elevation, and significant interactions with prescription medications are a serious concern. Given the lack of long-term safety data for both CBD and ashwagandha in daily wellness products, prudence is advised. For many, enjoying a Trip drink occasionally is a reasonable approach to wellness, while daily use presents an unquantified and potentially unnecessary risk. As always, consulting a healthcare professional is the safest course of action, especially for those on medication or with underlying health conditions. For more information on CBD safety, review the consumer advice from the UK Food Standards Agency.
Key Takeaways
- Daily Dose Exceeds FSA Guidance: A single Trip drink (~15mg CBD) exceeds the UK FSA's recommended daily limit of 10mg for healthy adults, highlighting potential long-term risks.
- Long-Term Liver Risk: Consistent daily CBD intake can stress the liver and potentially lead to liver enzyme elevation over time, an effect magnified in those with pre-existing liver issues or on certain medications.
- Medication Interactions: CBD can interact with numerous prescription drugs, including blood thinners, antidepressants, and epilepsy medication, by affecting liver enzymes.
- Limited Ashwagandha Data: The long-term safety of daily ashwagandha consumption, another key ingredient, is not well-documented, with studies primarily focusing on short-term use.
- Professional Medical Advice is Key: Those on medication, pregnant, breastfeeding, or with health concerns should always consult a doctor before incorporating daily Trip drinks into their routine.
