STRESS! Who isn’t feeling it right now? We don't have to tell you that stress affects everything from the laundry piling up to your sex-drive taking a raincheck. What we can't see is the human body releasing the hormone cortisol in high amounts in response to our stress. According to WellSet advisor and LA-based naturopath Dr. Nigma Talib, ND, elevated cortisol levels over long periods and chronic stress can affect every physiological system within the body. The good news is that we can take steps to balance our cortisol, and experience these benefits:
- Healthier sleep patterns and reduced fatigue
- improved focus and endurance when feeling tired
- Boosted immunity and protection against disease
- Increased energy and physical endurance
- Relieve symptoms of depression and anxiety
- Sustained mental focus and cognitive abilities
- Balanced metabolic processes
- Improved sex hormones and libido
Dr. Talib recently made her proprietary Cortisol Balancer available to the masses and we may never need that nightly glass of wine again. Formulated with 6 key synergistic ingredients including two superstar adaptogens. Adaptogens help with the body's adaptation process and resilience to stressful conditions, whether physical or emotional, to regulate healthy stress response. This little powerhouse also balances both seratonin and hormone levels (hello, sex!), and may improve appetite control and sleep/wake cycles.
Other natural supplements to keep your cortisol in check:
Ashwagandha (Withania Somnifera) is an adaptogenic super herb that has been clinically studied to promote healthy energy support and can help fight the effects of stress, promote a positive mindset, and work as a cortisol balancer.
L-theanine is an amino acid that promotes relaxation and reduces stress levels in the body and induces muscle relaxation. L-theanine has been shown to increase the activity of alpha brain waves in the brain, which is associated with the type of increased feelings of relaxation. L-theanine balances neurotransmitters, serotonin, and dopamine thereby promoting muscle relaxation and support for problems getting to sleep and staying asleep.
Magnolia (Magnolia Officinalis) in the form of Magnolol and honokiol extracts derived from magnolia, promote relaxation and reduce anxiety.
Epimedium Sagittatum (Horny Goat) flavonoids support a healthy response to stress by the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis (HPA). It has also been shown to help improve libido and help with symptoms of menopause and PMS.
Phosphatidylserine (PS) is the single most important building block for healthy cellular function. PS helps improve and optimize cognitive function, learning, memory, coordination, and mood as well as recovery in exercise. It's naturally occurring in the body but you can up your intake with foods like boost your intake with including soy, white beans, egg yolks, chicken liver, and beef liver.
5 HTP (Griffonia Simplicifolia seed) derived from the Griffonia simplicifolia plant, promotes healthy brain serotonin levels, supports emotional well-being, healthy eating behavior, and healthy sleep. In the body, 5 HTP converts to serotonin with the removal of a carboxyl group (COOH) by a second enzyme. Serotonin is a “feel-good hormone” and one of the most important neurotransmitters that are involved in the regulation of endocrine and brain activity responsible for emotion, appetite, and sleep/wake cycles. In clinical studies, the administration of 5-HTP supported serotonin production.
Disclaimer: Always ask your doctor before trying any new regimens, herbs or supplements.
Health