If you pay attention to health trends, you’re probably hearing a lot about adoptogens lately. What are these herbs, what do they do, and can they help you reach your health goals? Yes, adaptogens can be a good fit for many of you, depending upon your particular needs.

Most of us deal with some amount of stress in our lives, and some suffer a lot more than others. Adaptogens are believed to help us adjust to stress and find a better mood balance. Research has also linked the herbs to lowered fatigue, improved mental alertness, and better immune functioning. Those who suffer from anxiety and sleep disturbances often report a relief of those symptoms when taking adaptogenic herb supplements. And adaptogens might also help you to balance your hormones and support your weight loss plan!

That’s because adaptogens help your body to regulate endocrine production, particularly of cortisol. Regulating this stress hormone can help your body to stop the cycle of spikes and crashes that contribute to symptoms like anxiety, mood swings, and fatigue. And because cortisol plays a role in prompting cravings, along with fat storage, supporting your body this way can probably help to boost your weight loss plan a bit.

Adaptogens have been used for hundres, and probably thousands, of years by herbal medicine practitioners. But they’ve only recently become known to the general public. Herbs that restore the body’s natural balance are considered adaptogenic, and include (but are not limited to) the following:

• Asian ginseng
• Eleuthero (or Siberian ginseng)
• Rhodiola rosea
• Maca
• Cordyceps
• Reishi
• Holy basil
• Ashwagandha
• Astragalus

Do remember that herbal supplements can interact with some medications, so always discuss your use of these substances with your doctor. And take note of any side effects that you notice; while considered safe for most people, herbs can occasionally produce unwanted effects in a small number of people.

Let’s discuss your supplement regiment at your next appointment, and we can help you decide if adaptogens might be a helpful addition to your weight loss plan.