What the Heck is an Adaptogen and Why do I Need it?

WHAT THE HECK IS AN ADAPTOGEN AND WHY DO I NEED IT?

Often times our lives lead to stress and fatigue and that leaves us reaching for things like caffeine and sugar. Both of these give us a quick burst of energy but they also lead to a quick CRASH. Then we start the cycle over again. A healthier approach is to use ADAPTOGENS which are a mix of herbs that work with your body to help your body adapt to stress and fatigue.

Most of the herbs and fungi that qualify as adaptogens grow in higher elevations with thinning oxygen and rocky soil. They have had to adjust to less than optimal growing conditions allowing them to become nutrient dense. It is this dense concentration of nutrients that improve the function of the adrenal system, which is tasked with the responsibility of managing your body’s hormonal reaction to stress, fatigue and anxiety.

Adaptogens can help you to manage stress and anxiety more evenly without the quick burst of energy or crashes you may experience with sugar and caffeine. They are named adaptogens because of their ability to adapt their role to the needs of the body. It does take some time to reap their benefits, but in the end, they are a better option.

Adaptogens seem to be able to regulate the body in much the same way a thermostat regulates room temperature. When the body needs a boost of energy, they are there to supply it without the highs and lows that come with stimulants. They keep the body in harmony and balance the adrenal system, while helping it to respond to the negative effects of stress.

If you are considering adding adaptogens to your routine, consider that all the adaptogens your body needs are found in Shakeology.

Maca Root

This rare and powerful member of the radish family boasts over 60 phytonutrients. Each of them helps to increase energy, and endurance. They promote memory, learning and improve mental ability. It also helps to strengthen the endocrine system, and may improve libido.

Ashwagandha

Holistic practitioners have used this herb for centuries for its known ability to support a healthy immune system, improve cognitive functions, fight off stress and better your mood. It also balances blood sugar, lowers cholesterol and helps with brain cell regeneration. This multifunctional herb helps the body’s natural anti-inflammatory response too.

Schisandra

The use of this Chinese herb dates backs almost 2 centuries when it was first discovered to aid in healing and the promotion of a stronger immune system. It helps the body to achieve ideal energy levels to improve physical endurance and performance. It also helps to achieve perfect blood sugar levels and blood pressure.

Astragalus

This herb aids in the maintenance of a healthy immune system while protecting the body from physical, mental and emotional stress. Its high levels of antioxidants aid against damage caused by free radicals. Its nutrients help, especially during the winter months, to protect the immune and respiratory systems.

Maitake Mushrooms

This large mushroom grows in Japan, North America and Europe. It is highly prized for its medicinal benefits, which include helping to lower cholesterol, improving blood sugar as well as treating and preventing cancer.

Cordyceps

This is another fungi that has been used in herbal medicine for centuries. It’s benefits include the ability to aid in respiratory health, increase oxygen uptake, improve heart health, slow the aging process, detoxify the body, and increase energy. It may also prevent some cancers.

Reishi Mushrooms

These are one of the most popular edible mushrooms in the world. They have been widely used in eastern medicine for thousands of years. They only recently came to the attention of the Western world. They have amazing health benefits including the ability to reduce blood pressure, rid the body of inflammation, improve cognitive ability, boost energy and slow the aging process.

This is amazing information. Our nutrition plays the most IMPORTANT role in keeping us healthy!