Adapt
To modify
To become suitable for a new use or purpose
To become adjusted to a new condition
Adaptation is fundamental to growth. As humans, we adapt all the time…to new living spaces, new weather patterns, a new exercise routine, a new political climate, a new job, a new family member, and eventually retirement. This form of adaptation involves modifying behavior, thoughts, and strategies to better fit or adjust to a particular situation.
Nutritionally, your body adapts, too. It adapts by adjusting its metabolic processes, nutrient absorption, and energy use based on your life phase, changes in diet, nutrient availability, and energy needs. This ability to adapt helps the body maintain homeostasis (balance) and supports health under varying dietary conditions and life circumstances.
Would you be surprised to learn that plants that can help your body maintain equilibrium are called adaptogens?
Adaptogens are natural, non-toxic substances that help the body adapt to stress, support normal metabolic function, and restore balance. They can increase the body’s resistance to physical, emotional, and environmental stressors and provide a defense response to acute or chronic stress. To qualify as an adaptogen, the plant must provide this non-specific response. That means it provides benefits regardless of the direction of the imbalance.
Said another way, adaptogens can tone down a hyper-functioning system or strengthen and boost a hypo-functioning system. The direction of the imbalance doesn’t matter.
For the most part, adaptogens are herbs, plant fruit, seeds, and roots. There are 15 known adaptogens and six other plants that are considered “possible” adaptogens. Solid scientific research confirms the long history of use, safety, and efficacy of the 15 known adaptogens. Although the “possible” adaptogens do not have the same level of scientific research confirming their use at this time, their effectiveness is just as strong as the known adaptogens.
Recommendations
To dig into the world of adaptogens, I recommend the book Adaptogens: Herbs for Strength, Stamina, and Stress Relief by David Winston and Steven Maimes. Another resource can be found here.
One of my favorite and commonly available adaptogens is holy basil. Also known as tulsi, holy basil is considered the “Queen of Herbs.” For centuries, holy basil has been used to alleviate mental fog, enhance memory, and help individuals through situational depression.
I frequently drink tulsi or a combination of tulsi and green tea. Both have properties that calm my nerves, lift my spirits, and help me stay grounded through the day.
Another way I benefit from the support of adaptogens is through a nutrition powder by Ka’Chava. This all-in-one product is a combination of plant proteins, greens, omegas + MCT, vitamins, minerals, adaptogens, probiotics, fiber, mushrooms, digestive enzymes, and electrolytes WITHOUT soy, animal products, gluten, GMOs, preservatives, and artificial flavors, colors or sweeteners.
I’m NOT an affiliate of Ka’Chava…just a happy consumer. I like the vanilla blend best because I can add my own hint of flavor…chocolate, matcha, chai, or pumpkin…to suit my tastebuds on any given day.
As summer winds down and you find yourself in need of a boost to help you ADAPT to the seasonal changes ahead, consider supporting your body, mind, and spirit with the use of adaptogens. Whether as tea or an energizing formula like Ka’Chava, you will likely notice the difference within days. I sure did!
Please talk with your healthcare provider before adding any new supplement to your daily/weekly health routine. In the meantime, feel free to contact me with questions. It’s my passion to help people feel their best through nutrition.
Here’s to your health and adaptability!
