Ashwagandha! Your Weapon Against Stress!

In today's fast-paced world, stress has become an inevitable part of our lives. 

Whether it's the demands of work, family responsibilities, or personal challenges, stress can take a toll on our physical and mental well-being. 

However, there's a powerful natural remedy that has been gaining attention for its ability to combat stress and promote overall wellness: Ashwagandha.

What is Ashwagandha?

Something I hadn't really seen in the supplement market until I completed my Functional Nutrition and Metabolism Specialist qualification.

I used this for a while 2 years ago for sleep.

But due to my life being more chaotic with my Online Coaching, Gym and Franchise kicking off, I was getting a little bent out of shape.

I started taking it again last week and I feel somewhat less bent out of shape.

This is my anecdotal experience so please don't take that as gospel.

That being said, there is tones of research backing this little beast up.

Ashwagandha, also known as Withania somnifera, is an ancient herb native to India and North Africa. 

It has been used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine to promote vitality, improve cognitive function, and enhance resilience to stress. 

Often referred to as an adaptogen, Ashwagandha helps the body adapt to various stressors by modulating the production of stress hormones like cortisol.

It has potential benefits of increasing testosterone and helping with sleep issues

How do Adaptogens Work in the Body?

Adaptogens are a unique class of herbs and mushrooms that help the body adapt to stressors, whether physical, chemical, or biological. 

They work by regulating the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, which is responsible for the body's stress response. 

By balancing stress hormone levels and supporting adrenal function, adaptogens like Ashwagandha help promote a sense of calm and resilience in the face of stress.

So in basic terms, it helps the body adapt to a stressful environment.

As in the case of all supplements, they should be used in conjunction with tactics that help relieve stress.

How to Take It:

Ashwagandha is available in various forms, including capsules, powders, and liquid extracts. 

The recommended dosage may vary depending on factors such as age, health status, and the specific product. 

But safe doses are usually about 500mg! Make sure you check the labels and with your doctor before taking this supplement 

One common way to incorporate Ashwagandha into your routine is by taking it as a daily supplement. 

Many people find it convenient to add Ashwagandha powder to smoothies, teas, or other beverages. 

Others prefer the ease of taking capsules with a glass of water. Whatever method you choose, consistency is key to experiencing the full benefits of this powerful herb.

In addition to supplements, Ashwagandha can also be used topically in the form of oils or creams for its soothing effects on the skin.

Remember: 

This information is used to inform and should not supersede the advice of your health care practitioner or doctor, so always check with them if you are in doubt.

Remember supplements are to enhance foundational stress relief tactics like exercise, sunlight and taking time for yourself. 

Supplements can be a useful tool in a holistic approach to your health and fitness. 

Topics like this are just a small portion of the education I deliver in the Veterans Health Academy!

So if you would like to know more about how I can help you ascend your body and mind and become the best version of you, reach out! 

Send me a message and we can go from there! 

Happy Hump Day! 

Carl