Functional ways to reduce your body's stress response
By: Amelia Hunt, FNTP

It's amazing the amount of stress we are ALL under in this life, sometimes it actually feels very stressful or we could be stressing ourselves without even realizing it. Either way we could all use a little help in this arena. There are a lot of ways to manage stress, but today I'm going to give you some ideas of supplements you could take to actually alter the way your body mechanically manages your stress load. As you read through these options for functional supplementation, choose ones that you think relate most to your stress scenario.
*consult your physician before taking anything*
Adaptogens:
Adaptogens exhibit neuroprotective, anti-fatigue, anti-depressive, anxiolytic, nootropic and CNS stimulating activity. Adaptogens exert an anti-fatigue effect that increases mental work capacity against a background of stress and fatigue, particularly intolerance to mental exhaustion and enhanced attention.
Chronic stress from constant overstimulation of cortisol can lead to imbalance of our endocrine system. Adaptogens improve the natural stress response.
Panossian, A., & Wikman, G. (2010). Effects of Adaptogens on the Central Nervous System and the Molecular Mechanisms Associated with Their Stress-Protective Activity. Pharmaceuticals (Basel, Switzerland), 3(1), 188–224. https://doi.org/10.3390/ph3010188
To implement adaptogens into your life you can take it supplements, there are also some really tasty teas and coffee substitutes.
Ashwaganda: reduces stress & anxiety
Ginseng: Boosts memory, reaction time, calmness, & immunity
Tulsi/Holy Basil: Reduces physical and mental health, stress-related anxiety and depression
Reishi: Reduces stress & anxiety. Improves sleep
Lion's mane: Improves cognitive & brain health. Reduces anxiety & depression
Chaga: Immune health, reduce inflammation, blood sugar, & blood pressure
Cordyceps: Boosts stamina & increased energy
Licorice root: Reduces stress (great in tea form, yummy and sweet)
CBD oil:
Hemp supplementation tends to support psychometric measures of perceived sleep, stress response, and perceived life pleasure and was well tolerated with no clinically relevant safety concerns. Based on the evidence, CBD may potentially help manage the symptoms of anxiety.
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