Ingredients:
1 cup unsweetened coconut water
1/2 cup unsweetened coconut milk
1 peeled orange
1 teaspoon grated ginger OR 1/4 teaspoon powdered ginger
1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
1/4 teaspoon grated turmeric OR 1/3 powdered turmeric
1/8 teaspoon pepper
1/8 teaspoon sea salt
Directions:
Add all of the above to a high-powered blender. Mix until thoroughly combined.
The amount of this cortisol drink you choose to enjoy per serving is up to you. Sometimes I will drink half of it on the first day and finish the second half the next day.
Other times I will take a shot glass once a day until it's gone. Be sure to keep any extra refrigerated.
Most cortisol drink recipes I have come across online contain the coconut water, orange juice, sea salt and cream of tartar. And those recipes are perfectly fine!
I chose to add a few more ingredients to my recipe as they are also beneficial in bringing the body back into balance, in regards to cortisol levels.
* "Coconut milk is a common ingredient in adrenal cocktails, which are drinks that some say can help balance hormones like cortisol and reduce stress. The high fat content of coconut milk may help stabilize the adrenal glands and stress response."
* "Ginger plays an important role in resolution of mucus membranes lined different systems that leads to decrease in cortisol levels."
* "The active ingredient in turmeric, curcumin, can help reduce cortisol levels and improve mood."
* "Black pepper contains piperine, which can increase the body's absorption of curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, by up to 2,000%."
What is the role of cortisone in the body:
“Cortisol is a hormone that helps the body respond to stress, regulate blood sugar and pressure, and maintain immune function:
Stress response: Cortisol is released into the bloodstream when you experience stress or danger, and helps your body's "fight or flight" response.
Blood sugar and pressure: Cortisol helps maintain constant blood sugar and blood pressure levels.
Immune function: Cortisol helps regulate the body's immune response.
Metabolism: Cortisol helps regulate the body's metabolism, which is how the body processes food to create energy.
Inflammation: Cortisol helps suppress inflammation.
Sleep-wake cycle: Cortisol helps control the sleep-wake cycle.
The adrenal glands, located on top of each kidney, produce cortisol.
The pituitary gland, a pea-sized gland at the base of the brain, regulates how much cortisol the adrenal glands release.
While it's normal for cortisol levels to fluctuate throughout the day and increase in response to stress, having too much or too little cortisol can cause health problems."
Symptoms of high cortisol levels may include:
fatigue
irritability
headaches
intestinal problems
anxiety or depression
weight gain
increased blood pressure
sleep difficulties
How to assist your body into coming back into balance:
Reduce stress:
Stressful situations can cause the body to release cortisol. Some helpful ways in managing your cortisol levels:
limiting caffeine
exercising regularly
practicing relaxation techniques like yoga, tai chi, or meditation
spending time in nature
Eating a balanced diet:
Foods rich in magnesium: avocados, bananas, dark chocolate, broccoli, and spinach
Foods with omega-3 fatty acids: fish, chia seeds, flax seeds, and walnuts
Taking supplements: supplements that may help lower cortisol levels include:
omega-3 fatty acids
Vitamin D
Vitamin C
Stay hydrated: dehydration can stress the body, so it's important to drink enough water.
Avoiding certain foods: foods that can increase cortisol levels include:
alcohol
saturated fats
simple sugars like sodas and candy
simple carbs like white breads
