It is difficult not to take notice when others are performing at higher levels than you are able to achieve. This was the case when the power of "Adaptogens" were discovered back in the 1950's. What researchers at the time discovered was people who ate herbs like ginseng were able to perform better athletically and professionally. That likely sparks most of our curiosity.
Today, there is much more research available about this powerful group of herbs. Merriam Webster even has a definition for adaptogens: "a nontoxic substance and especially a plant extract that is held to increase the body's ability to resist the damaging effects of stress and promote or restore normal physiological functioning".
Some examples of these herbs that help the body to manage stress a little easier are Ginseng, Ashwaganda, Rhodiola, Holy Basil, and even the mushroom Cordyceps. This tasty recipe full of superfoods like chia seeds, hemp seeds, and cacao also contains a daily dose of the adaptogen Maca. A study recently found that taking Maca daily for 12 weeks was shown to:
Increase sexual desire
Improve mood
Increase energy
Improve health-related quality of life score
Decrease chronic mountain sickness
Now, this doesn't mean it will necessarily do all of these things for you, but it might help. Maca is generally considered safe when used as a food, but some people do notice side effects and some people should not take maca. As always, it is best to work with your health care provider(s) before beginning this or any other recommendation on the internet.
Be careful with yourself. You are the only you we have.
Maca Power Balls
Total prep time: 15 minutes
Yields: 24-36 balls
Ingredients:
1 jar of nut butter
1/2c raw cacao nibs
1/2c chia seeds
1/2c hemp seeds
1/8c honey
1/2c maca powder
4T coconut oil
2T water
pinch of sea salt
Coconut flakes to coat
Instructions:
In a large mixing bowl, combine all ingredients until well blended.
Roll dough into small balls and coat with coconut flakes
Place in refrigerator to harden for at least 1 hour
Especially delicious stored in freezer
The more you adapt, the more interesting you are.
-- Martha Stewart
