We recently received some samples of a new drink-ish concoction called Minichill – the latest in the ever expanding market of energy drinks, elixirs, potions and whatever other liquid alchemy is hitting the shelves these days. I’ve never tried Red Bull or anything like it, and honestly didn’t really want to sample Minichill either. It’s pegged as “the two-ounce anti-energy shot – the only doctor-formulated, clinically proven relaxation shot on the market.” They say it doesn’t cause drowsiness so can be consumed at any time of the day or night. But – it’s got “Relarian” in it – their name for their patented blend of herbs including Valerian root, which is what I took in university to get to sleep and it knocked me right out. And it also has Sucralose in it – an artificial sweetener. One of our family policies, for lack of a better term, is that we don’t eat fake food. I have to admit that I was too chicken to even taste a Minichill, but I did give it to several friends to try who aren’t as opposed to consuming chemicals as we are. Their response was that it may have relaxed them a little bit but it tastes “strange.” The strangeness likely comes from the Sucralose – fake food tastes funny.

This product was marketed to us as something that would be great for stressed out parents who need some relaxation. While I’m sure that’s just because it’s very obvious that we’re parents, I feel I need to warn you that if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding you should NOT consume this or anything else with medicinal herbs, artificial sweeteners or “fake foods” in it.

My advice? If you’re stressed, go for a walk, run or bike ride and then come home and crack open a nice bottle of red wine.