AVENTURIST LIVING WITH IVEY
All About Adaptogens
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What are they and do they live up to THE HYPE? By Ivey Leidy Photography by Jerry Rabinowitz
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» THE MAIN
Adaptogens do for your adrenal glands what exercise does for muscles and bones, strengthening them to protect and defend. As a result, cortisol levels decrease, serotonin (the happy hormone) and melatonin (the sleep hormone) increase, and everything else falls into place: pain relief, improved digestion, cognitive function, and increased immunity. Weeding through the noise and making sure you’re getting real adaptogenic herbs is the main hurdle. Because the FDA classifies these products as dietary supplements, manufacturers may exaggerate how well they work. Avoid packaged snacks and look for the whole form, powder, or liquid versions of the adaptogen itself. Adaptogens are not something you can sprinkle on your coffee every so often and expect results; they need to be a part of your daily routine to really reap the benefits. There are many ways to accomplish this and numerous adaptogens to choose from. Incorporate them into your teas, coffees, or smoothies, or cook adaptogenic mushrooms as a hearty side or entrée. Consume stimulating adaptogens, like maca and ginseng, earlier in the day, before 2 p.m. Calming adaptogens, including holy basil and ashwagandha, are great for the late afternoon or evening. Read on to discover more adaptogens and how to add them to your diet.
ou’ve seen them on smoothie and coffee menus, as an ingredient in snack bars and gummies, and even in specialty cocktails promising to reduce stress and anxiety, boost immunity and energy, fight inflammation, and improve sleep. While they may seem like yet another wellness trend, adaptogens have actually been used for centuries in Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine. Coined by Dr. Nikolai V. Lazarev, the term “adaptogen” refers to “a substance that increases nonspecific resistance against multiple stressors.” This powerful group (primarily plants, herbs, and mushrooms) interacts with your brain and nervous system to regulate physiological responses to stress, ensuring your body functions as it should.
ADAPTOGENS
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Holy Basil: By reducing cortisol production, this plant can alleviate stress and anxiety. It can also balance blood sugar and hormones and promote fertility.
Ashwagandha: Also known as Indian ginseng, this herb can purportedly reduce stress and anxiety.
Ginseng: This root boosts energy and cognitive function.
Cordyceps: These mushrooms boost stamina, increase exercise performance, and reduce inflammation.
Maca: A Peruvian root used by ancient warriors to boost stamina and energy, maca has been found to increase libido, balance hormones, and benefit immunity. Maitake: These mushrooms support healthy blood sugar levels and regulate insulin.
Goji Berries: These berries can boost energy and physical performance and improve sleep. Matcha: This popular plant/tea supports a healthy glucose response, balances hormones, and reduces inflammation.
Turmeric: This root decreases inflammation and regulates glucose and cholesterol.
Reishi: In addition to supporting immunity, reishi mushrooms can lower blood pressure and improve sleep.
Rhodiola Rosea: Incorporate this plant to reduce physical and mental fatigue. Astragalus also targets fatigue. Lion’s Mane: Consume these mushrooms to reduce anxiety and depression and boost brain health.
AVENTURA MAGAZINE
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3/2/22 10:20 AM
