Adaptogens help people of all ages, fitness levels, and backgrounds. It is sometimes hard to stick to our exercise schedule or our healthy diet, and stress can take over our busy work schedules. Adaptogens are nutrients that can help us better adapt to stressful periods throughout our life. Let’s talk about where they come from and also what benefits they provide.
What are Adaptogens?
Adaptogens are different mushrooms and plants that you can incorporate into your daily diet for your body to respond better to high levels of stress, periods of anxiety, general fatigue, and physical, mental, and social wellbeing. Adding adaptogens to tinctures, foods (ex: baking), and beverages (ex: smoothies and juices) are an easy way to incorporate them into your wholesome diet.
The main qualities that an adaptogen must have to be included in this category is that it is non-toxic, stress-preventative, and encourages homeostasis. Although they are not a long-term solution to chronic stress, they target specific stresses within the body to help your body return to a balance.
Taking them helps your body focus on returning to a level of homeostasis, This is the natural state of your body where it functions at an optimal level. These supplements change the chemical reactions within your body to alter cortisol levels. Adaptogens increase stress resistance within the body and decrease stress sensitivity.
Does the US FDA Regulate Them
The US Food and Drug Administration does not regulate them. For those who are considering adding this to their daily diet, it is best to read reviews and studies regarding how they can impact your overall well being and health.
For most people, they can work well to alleviate stress. However, talking to a healthcare provider gives you personalized information as to how these supplements can interact with your current state of health, diet, and present/former illnesses or conditions.
Common Types of Adaptogens
If you are considering adding adaptogens to your diet, there are some that you should consider taking first. The most common are often the most studied, making them the safest options to start with as a beginner.
- Ashwagandha — This evergreen shrub increases the functioning of the nervous system, cardiovascular, and endocrine systems by providing easy ways for your brain to respond to stressful situations.
- Asian ginseng— A species of plant root used in Chinese medicine that combats both physical and mental fatigue.
- American ginseng — American ginseng boosts your immune system, provides anti-inflammatory properties, and increases your nervous system response to fight or flight scenarios.
- Eleuthero — Eleuthero minimizes stress and fatigue while boosting immunity.
- Rhodiola — Rhodiola reduces fatigue, anxiety, and depression.
How to Consume Adaptogens
The safest way to consume adaptogens is to use them in food and beverages, such as incorporating them into baked goods, smoothies, juices, sauces, or other liquids. You can also take them in capsule form, preferably before or after eating. Lastly, you can use a liquid form in a tincture to drink, add to liquids, or mix into food.
Disclaimer: This article is intended simply to provide information. It does not replace the medical advice of a physician. Please speak with your doctor if you have any questions or concerns.
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