My Nugget: Awesome Adaptogens
So, here’s the deal: my GP recently suggested that cutting back on my estrogen might help with a little health hiccup I was having. So, like a responsible adult, I did what I was advised over the course of 6-8 weeks. Everything seemed fine... until it wasn’t. Cue the return of all those lovely peri-menopausal symptoms like night sweats, insomnia and more that I thought were long gone. Fun times, right? Currently, I’m in hormonal limbo, waiting to see if I can bump up my estrogen again to get things back under control.
What really caught me off guard was how fast those symptoms came back. It was about as subtle as a sledgehammer, one day I was fine and the next I wasn’t! A friend lent me Stacy Sims' book ‘Next Level’ so I started poring over it and began exploring adaptogenic supplements. Here’s what’s on my radar:
Ashwagandha (The Zen Master)
This little miracle worker is known for bringing the calm. It’s great for reducing cortisol (that stress hormone), lowering anxiety, and improving sleep. Oh, and it might even help with hot flushes, blood sugar control, and inflammation. Basically, it’s like a soothing cup of tea for your whole body.
Holy Basil/Tulsi (The Chill Pill)
Stress? Anxiety? Poor sleep? Holy Basil’s got you covered. It also boosts immunity, acts as an antioxidant, and may help balance your blood sugar. Plus, it’s great for mood swings. Who wouldn’t want a little extra chill in their life?
Maca/Peruvian Ginseng (The Energy Booster)
Maca’s like the Swiss Army knife of adaptogens. It’s good for mood, energy, anxiety, hot flushes, night sweats, and more. Feeling low on energy? Maca’s here to perk you up while keeping your hormones in check.
Rhodiola Rosea (The Brain Powerhouse)
If fatigue has you feeling like a zombie, Rhodiola is your go-to. It helps reduce tiredness, sharpens cognitive function, and keeps those stress hormones in line. Brain fog? Be gone!
Schisandra (The Focus Queen)
Need a mental boost? Schisandra might just be your new best friend. It helps with endurance, mental clarity, and balance neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine. Bonus: it may also help reduce hot flushes thanks to its phytoestrogen properties. Focus, mood, and less overheating? Yes, please!
Now, before you rush out to buy all the adaptogens, remember: I’m no expert. This is just what I’m experimenting with to see what works for me. So, do your own research, check if these supplements play nice with any medications or conditions you have, and when in doubt, check your GP for advice. And it’s good to know that these won’t help you instantly, it’ll take a few weeks, so be patient!