Who doesn’t love a hot latte or blended coffee beverage? When we are stressed to the nines or have a mound of hurdles to jump during the day ahead it seems both logical and comforting to reach for a caffeine rich latte…right?! Ah, but when we gulp down loads of caffeine and sugar we send our insulin and cortisol to the moon. Our fat storing and stress hormones, respectively, start us on a downward spiral. We have essentially throat punched our adrenal glands when we take in black coffee (or other high dose forms of caffeine) or sugary coffee disguised treats.
Understanding what our adrenal glands do is important in your role of becoming a more optimal human being who kicks butt in life. The adrenal glands produce hormones that help the body control blood sugar, burn protein and fat, react to stressors like a major illness or injury, and regulate blood pressure. Pretty important stuff right?
We want to care for our adrenal health and limit excess sugar and high amounts of caffeine. Try my low caffeine Stress Busting Chai Latte recipe (below) that is keto friendly, dairy free and provides the calming adaptogenic benefits of aswagandha root.
Ashwa-what? Ashwagandha is an adaptogenic herb meaning it can help your body cope with stress. It can give you natural energy when you need it, but without caffeine like jitters and it can also calm your down when you are stressed. It “adapts” to what you need. It is a powerhouse for helping lower blood sugar and cortisol levels. It may even release reactive oxygen species (ROS) to help kill cancer cells. Could you use a little more focus power in your day? Well, ashwagandha can help you concentrate, much like caffeine can but without the side effects. Read more about the benefits HERE. Now on to the recipe!
STRESS BUSTING CHAI LATTE
Sugar-Free/Keto-Friendly/Dairy-Free
12 oz chai tea (I used TAZO Classic Chai)
2 tsp coconut milk powder (or coconut milk)
2 tsp Swerve confectioners sugar (or other xylitol/erythritol based sweetener)
1/4 – 1/2 tsp ashwgandha root powder
Brew tea as directed. Add all ingredients into a blender and blender for 20 seconds on high. Deep breath, relax and enjoy!