Chocolate relieves stress!! Let's talk adaptogens

That should be a bumper sticker!

Who is NOT balancing their stress levels these days?! With what we have all just been through, and still going through, our mental health has been in struggle mode for a LONG time! To maintain any measure of balance and peace, one must make a plan and stick to it! The global numbers on mental health declines are alarming at best but for us at Global Food Warrior, we decided to share what keeps us chugging along all zen and joyful.

One word... Adaptogens

Adaptogens are a natural substance (usually an herb, root, or mushroom) that helps the body adapt to stress and to exert a normalizing effect upon bodily processes. In other words, they can help your body adapt to life’s doozies. Oh and the doozies , they keep 'a coming!

These herbs aid our bodies in reacting to or recovering from both short- and long-term physical or mental stress. Some also boost immunity and overall well-being.

Here are a few we LOVE!

Ashwagandha is one of the best apoptogenic herbs for hormone balance. It has been used since ancient times for a variety of uses, but largely to reduce levels of stress and the “stress hormone” cortisol. Cortisol can create high blood sugar and increased abdominal fat, particularly in women, so a helping hand from this herb will help.

American Ginseng this herb is known to boost memory, reaction time and your immune system. Many supplements feature this herb, and it can also be found in many spice mixes.

Goji Berries these softly sweet berries have long been used to support longevity in traditional Chinese medicine. We love them sprinkled over oatmeal in the morning or incorporated in our lunch time salad ritual!

Holy Basil also known as Tulsi, as opposed to the culinary basil you might use to make pesto, this delight, Holy Basil has a long history in Ayruvedic medicine. Different parts of the plant have different uses, but we use the leaves, dried or fresh to bring about a deep relaxation. It makes the most delicious tea when steeped with ginger and honey is added.

Turmeric this brain and mood enhancing food also happens to be useful and delicious! Try adding the fresh grated root to curries. or maybe you just make a lovely golden milk at bedtime, your tummy and heart will thank you!

Now we get to the chocolate...

Cacao, the raw form of cocoa is considered to be the highest antioxidant food on the planet. It contains essential minerals like magnesium, iron, manganese, and chromium which are important for building strong bones, regulating moods, purifying blood, supporting cardiovascular health and balancing hormones. Chocolate is also high in phenylethylamine known as the "love drug" and anandamide known as “the bliss chemical”, which makes this coveted dessert a natural aphrodisiac, mood booster, metabolism booster and appetite suppressant!! Where do we sign up?!!

Here is a recipe that incorporates cacao and some other adaptogens to really mellow you out...Hot Cocoa with Adaptogens (Vegan) | Nutrition Refined

You're welcome :)

Wishing you all the joy and many many blessings

Team GFW