AMA #3: Adaptogens, Fasting & Fertility, Bluetooth/EMF Risks, Cognitive Load Limits & More
Main Takeaways
- Adaptogens are compounds that help the body adapt to stress and can be in the form of supplements, food, drugs or behaviors.
- The three main categories of adaptogens are vitamins or micronutrients, supplements and behavioral tools.
- Vitamins and micronutrients contained in food can help reduce cellular stress.
- Supplements such as ashwagandha, lion’s mane, and chaga can be helpful to manage cortisol levels during stressful periods.
- Ashwagandha should not be taken prior to exercise or in the morning, and should not be taken for more than 30 days straight.
- Lion’s mane and chaga may reduce anti-inflammatory cytokines that spike during stressful periods.
- It's recommended to try single-dose ingredient supplements to identify what’s working and what’s not.
- There is limited evidence that adaptogens can directly alter neurotransmitters.
- Cortisol levels can ultimately impact neurotransmitters through the effects of adaptogens.
- Behavioral tools like exercise, mindfulness meditation, and yoga nidra can also be used as adaptogens.
