What Are Adaptogens? NATURE’S ANSWER TO ANXIETY, STRESS, AND MORE
We’re always looking for new ways to offset our stress. Some people change their diets, hoping that eating healthier will improve their mental health, while others include exercise in their daily routines. No tried-and-true method works for everyone, but a recent trend taking our country by storm might be the secret to healthily reducing stress. All we need to do is take an herb, root, or other plant substance called an adaptogen to melt away any long-looming stress.
adaptogens and helps reduce anxiety and depression. Ginseng helps combat fatigue and has other health benefits. Reishi is a type of mushroom adaptogen that can boost our immune system and even fight cancer. Schisandra, a fruit extract from the magnolia vine, helps with concentration, coordination, and endurance and may protect the liver and nervous system.
While adaptogens sound like an ideal solution for stress management, consider a few things before you start taking them. Adaptogens can negatively interact with certain medications, so you should check with your primary care physician before starting them. Additionally, the Food and Drug Administration does not regulate many adaptogen supplements, so do your research to ensure you choose a reputable brand. After talking with your health care provider and finding the right adaptogen for your situation, you may discover the key to managing or reducing your stress.
While adaptogens have existed for centuries, they are only now becoming more mainstream in American culture. Studies regarding adaptogens are still underway, but experts theorize that these unique plant substances directly interact with the body’s hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, which controls and manages individual stress responses. In order for an herb or plant substance to be considered an adaptogen, it must be nontoxic at regular doses, support the body’s ability to cope with stress, and help the body return to a stable state.
Adaptogens are available at almost any pharmacy, each with a unique use. Ashwagandha is one of the most common
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Fabulous Flourless Chocolate Cake
Inspired by EasyDessertRecipes.com
Ingredients • 1 cup chopped dark chocolate • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted • 3/4 cup granulated sugar • 1/2 cup almond flour
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts • 4 large eggs, separated • 2 tbsp cocoa powder
1. Preheat oven to 350 F and grease a springform pan with butter or nonstick spray. 2. Place chocolate in a medium bowl. Pour warm, melted butter over it, wait for 2 minutes, then stir until chocolate is melted and smooth. 3. Add sugar, almond flour, and walnuts and stir to incorporate. Stir in the egg yolks and set mixture aside. 4. In the bowl of a standing mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, whip egg whites on medium until stiff peaks form. 5. Fold 1/4 of the whipped egg whites into the chocolate batter. Repeat, 1/4 at a time, until egg whites are incorporated. 6. Pour batter into springform pan and bake for 30–35 minutes. 7. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely before removing from the pan. Dust with cocoa powder before serving. Directions
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