Adaptogens

ADAPTOGENSBasic information and benefits of using adaptogens

By: Jennifer Carmichael

What are adaptogens?

Adaptogens are herbal supplements that are believed to relieve environmental stressors.

They have been used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries and are thought to “balance” the energetic responses of the body.

As of late it is believed that these herbs can increase the immune system and increase the adrenal gland functions.

Most popular adaptogen is ginseng.

What do adaptogens do?

Work on a cellular level to help normalize responses

Help normalize and stimulate recovery processes

Helps body better deal with daily stressors due to environment or emotional responses

Stages of progress

Stage one: AlarmRelease of stress hormones, cortisol & and

adrenalineCortisol effects tissue throughout the body -immunosuppresive effect -negative impact on energy -decreases movement of glucose through

the bloodstreamKey enzymes that turn glucose into energy

are blocked

Stages of progress cont’d

Stage 2: ResistanceEach individuals response to stress variesTherefore each response to adaptation

variesHomeostasis occurs when the body

returns to normal state after stressor (ex. Physical activity)

This leads to the final stage

Stages of progress cont’d

Stage 3: ExhaustionBy observing the onset of symptoms it can be

determined how effective the adaptogenic substances are

Once adaptogens are introduced into the daily diet the first 2 stages are handled differently.

Stress or illness may still be present but the way the body handles the stressors is effected

Adaptogens increase the capacity of cells to rebuild responses to stressors decreasing the internal damage caused by stress, illness, fatigue

Conclusion of progress

When adaptogens are added responses to stress still occur but the changes in cell function to stress are modified

Adaptogens moderate the levels of blood glucose in stressful situations

By moderating the responses to stress valuable energy is conserved

Stress responses are not blocked but smoothly transitioned to prevent adrenal exhaustion by increasing

FDA regulation

It is important to understand that adaptogens have not been approved by the FDA

It is also important that you speak with your doctor prior to taking any adaptogens. Even though they are natural supplements they can have an adverse effect on certain health conditions or prescribed medications.

Speaking with a trained individual in adaptogens is highly recommended prior to consumption of products

EleutheroCommon name: Siberian Ginseng

Used successfully to treat bone marrow suppression caused by chemotherapy or radiation, angina, hypercholesterol

Is a mild anti-inflammatory and antioxidant

Improves symptoms of osteoarthritis Improves mental performance Helps cut high cholesterol Improves athletic performance

ReishiCommon name: Ganoderma

Anti-inflammatory Anti-viral Immunomodulator (helps

regulate/normailize immune system) Calms the mind, relaxes Strengthens the heart Improves cardiovascular function Inhibits clumping of platelets & lowers

blood pressure

Retrieved from www.nfollc.com

Reishi

He Shou WuCommon name: Fo-ti flower

Nourishes the liver, kidney, blood, Jing (essence)

Improves urinary tract Stimulates gall bladder & liver function Enhances T-cells Increase libido Used to calm nervousness & treat

insomnia Helps with blood deficiencies, anemia,

ear ringing, lower back pain, poor vision

Retrieved from lionheartherbs.com

He Shou Wu Root

EucommiaCommon name: rubber tree

Increase joint strength Improves circulation Increase stamina & endurance Decrease lower back pain Relieves aching joints Strengthens kidneys Strengthens bone bones and collagen structure Helps with hypertension Increase libido Strengthen Qi to produce a balance in energy

levels

Retrieved from www.bigstockphoto.com

Eucommia

Cordyceps

Anti-asthmatic Anti-leukemic Hepatoprotective (prevents damage to the liver) Stimulates immune system High in amino acids & fatty acids Builds lean muscle mass Great for post-exercise recovery Energizing, enhances aerobic capacity Improves lung function Prevents damage to cells caused by free radicals

Retrieved from www.citadelnutrition.com

Cordyceps

What are Superfoods?

Superfoods…

Defined as foods that are nutrient dense but low in calories

Pack a mean punch of antioxidants and essential nutrients (nutrients our bodies do not make on their own)

Green superfoods have the highest concentrations of easily digestible nutrients, fat burning compounds, vitamins and minerals for healing & protecting the body

Contains proteins, phytochemicals, & healthy bacterias to build clean muscle & tissue

Fruit & Nut Superfoods

High in antioxidants to fight free radicals Goji berries: rich source of vitamin C

(more than any other fruit) Superior source of vitamins A, B1, B2,

B6, & E Contain 18 amino acids & 21 trace

minerals Ideal food for reversing the aging

process and protecting against disease

Raw Cacao

World’s most concentrated source of antioxidants

Extremely high in magnesium: supports the heart, increases brain function, relaxes menstrual cramps & muscles

Increase flexibility & helps build strong bones Helps balance blood sugar High in Iron-keeps blood healthy & fights anemia High in Omega-6 fatty acids High in Zinc- assists immune system, liver &

pancreas

Bee Pollen

Most complete superfood found in nature Complete protein (contains all 22 essential

amino acids) High in antioxidants Provides quicker recovery from exercise Increase strength, energy, speed Returns heart rate to normal Produces histamine, neutralizing many allergies Abundance of B vitamins-builds up stress

defense

Maca

Contains significant amount of amino acids & carbohydrates

Contains calcium, phosphorus, zinc, magnesium, iron, B1, B2, B12, C, & E

Balances hormones Increase stamina Nourish glandular system Increase energy Enhance brain function Slows again process Lessens aches & pains Prevents osteoporosis

Where can I find such exotic herbs?

LIFEbar

Lifebar is an all organic juice and smoothie bar located in the Highlands of Louisville.

This is the only organic juice and smoothie bar in the state as well as the only one serving up a healthy remedy of superfoods and adaptogens.

Visit them on Facebook at Lifebar Highlands or stop in at 1570 Bardstown Rd.

In Closing:

Be sure to check with your doctor prior to changing your diet or using adaptogens

Research the adaptogens at the web pages cited or visit the following:

http://ijbr.ssjournals.com/index.php/journal/article/view/39

References

Hurd, Ryan. “What are adaptogen herbs?”.Retrieved from http://www.livestrong.com/article/157015-what-are-adaptogen-herbs/

August 16, 2013

Image retrieved from http://www.trainertonymartinez.com

Jawaid, T., Tewari, N., & Verma, L. (2011). Adaptogenic Agents: A review. International Journal of Biomedical Research, 2(5). Retrieved August 25, 2014, from http://ijbr.ssjournals.com/index.php/journal/article/view/39

References cont’d

Retrieved from http://www.adaptogens.org/adaptogen/why/47-how-adaptogens-work-on-the-body

Retrieved from http://www.adaptogens.org/adaptogen/why/47-how-adaptogens-work-on-the-body

Retrieved from www.citadelnutrition.com

Retrieved from http://www.foodmatters.tv/health-resources/fruit-and-nut-superfoods

Retrieved from lionheartherbs.com

Retrieved from www.nfollc.com

Winston, D. & Maimes, S. (2007). Adaptogens. Rochester, VT: Healing Arts Press

Wolfe, D. (2009). Superfoods: The Food and Medicine of the Future. Berkley, CA: North Atlantic Books