Y’all are in for a treat with this Creamsicle Adrenal Cocktail. But, let me first preface by stating this is in no way shape or form a traditional cocktail. First and foremost, it’s alcohol free (maybe I should’ve named it the Creamsicle Adrenal Mocktail?). Secondly, it isn’t a cocktail to offer at your next party or gathering. In fact, this cocktail is the opposite of most. It’s packed with essential nutrients and health benefits!
What are the Adrenal Glands?
You’ve probably heard of the adrenal glands in the context of “adrenal fatigue.” Why? Because adrenal fatigue is so prominent, today- recognized or not. In our hustle and bustle world, most of us deal with a degree of adrenal fatigue. Sorry to be the bearer of bad news, but the good news is: it’s not a life sentence. There are things you can do today to boost your adrenal function! But, first thing first, what even are the adrenal glands?
Adrenal glands are tiny, bean shaped organs located on top of your kidneys. Although little in size, they sure are mighty in function! As a part of the endocrine system, these organs are responsible for producing multiple hormones in the body. But, that’s not all: the adrenal glands are also a main player in the HPA-Axis (hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal). These 3 MVP’s work together to regulate your body’s stress response. When overworked, you’re left with a classic case of “adrenal fatigue.”
Your adrenal glands might be overworked (AKA dysfunctional) after a long bout of chronic stress (physical or mental). For example:
- After training for a marathon
- Dealing with chronic sickness, personally or close family/friends
- Working through a divorce
- Losing your job or starting a new job
- Moving to a new state
This short list is just the start. Adrenal fatigue, although usually due to stressful situations, can also be brought on by a poor diet, underlying infections, or lack of sleep. Here are the most common symptoms of adrenal fatigue:
- Feel exhausted in the morning (and all day long)⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
- Diagnosed with hypothyroidism⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
- Are a night owl
- Don’t fall asleep easily⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
- Feel dizzy when standing up⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
- Need sunglasses when outside⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
- Sweat easily⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
- Crave salty foods⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
- Feel jittery after coffee
Do one of more of these symptoms hit home for you? If so, I encourage you to keep on reading!
What is the Adrenal Cocktail?
This adrenal cocktail is a concoction of essential vitamins and minerals to support the adrenals on a foundational level. Here’s what you need:
Fresh Orange Juice- Unsurprisingly, orange juice is packed with vitamin C- an essential nutrient in times of stress. In fact, chronic stress depletes vitamin C stores. So, supplementing with vitamin C is non-negotiable when it comes to adrenal fatigue. It’s potent antioxidant properties are also needed to fuel the adrenal glands, regulate cortisol production, protect against oxidative stress, and boost the immune system.
Full Fat Coconut Milk- The stable, saturated fatty acids in coconut milk helps to stabilize blood sugar levels and provide your body with the energy it needs. Use your favorite unsweetened coconut milk, here!
Hydrolyzed Collagen Powder- In addition to the coconut milk, collagen acts as a blood sugar regulator in the adrenal cocktail. More so, it provides essential amino acids to support build a resilient gut and boost cortisol production (which should be at it’s highest in the AM).
Cream of Tartar- You’re probably thinking, “ewh.” I know I first did. But, cream of tartar offers an abundance of minerals, specifically potassium. And when potassium interacts with vitamin C, you get a kick-butt adrenal modulator. Meaning, it’ll either increase or decrease adrenal function, depending on your body’s need.
Sea Salt- Despite common belief, salt and iodine are essential nutrients. After all, it’s the minerals are essential electrolytes, which are critical in energy production, blood pressure, and adrenal function.
Together, these powerful ingredients create one heck of an adrenal-supporting, delicious drink!
Do You Need an Adrenal Cocktail?
You might benefit from this delicious (and completely alcohol free) adrenal cocktail, if you:
- Wake up groggy and exhausted, even after decent sleep
- Feel “wired but tired” throughout the day
- Experience the most energy at night
- Get light-headed when standing up
- Crave salty foods
- Feel depressed or anxious
These symptoms are all classic signs of adrenal fatigue, especially if you’ve experience prolonged stress- physically or emotional.
When to Drink the Adrenal Cocktail
Your adrenals are responsible for producing different hormones in the body. The most important hormone for today’s conversation is cortisol. This steroid hormone controls blood sugar levels, regulates metabolism, reduces inflammation, assists with memory formulation, and more. Did I mention, cortisol is produced and released during times of stress? This is why adrenal fatigue occurs after long periods of chronic stress.
Ideally, cortisol levels should be highest in the morning and lowest in the evening. However, in the case of adrenal dysfunction, cortisol levels are often reversed (low in the AM and high in the PM). This explains why adrenal fatigue often causes morning fatigue and evening energy!
So, when should you drink this adrenal cocktail? Ideally, mid-morning. This recipe supports healthy cortisol production. So, by consuming this strategic assortment of nutrients in the AM, you can encourage your body to self-regulate and achieve the proper balance of cortisol. If you need en extra boost, drink a second adrenal cocktail in mid-afternoon.
Creamsicle Adrenal Cocktail
Y'all are in for a treat with this Creamsicle Adrenal Cocktail. It's packed with essential nutrients and health benefits!
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup pulp-free orange juice, no sugar added (and preferably freshly squeezed)
- 2 tbs coconut milk, unsweetened
- 1 scoop vanilla (or unflavored) collagen
- 1/4 tsp cream of tartar
- 1/4 tsp sea saly or pink Himalayan salt
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients in a glass. Enjoy!
OMG! This is so good. I have made it before without the milk but it tastes just like a creamsicle with it!
How do you keep the coconut milk from not hardening with the cold ingredients?
What kind of coconut milk are you using? Canned or refrigerated? I’ve never had this issue! You can also try coconut water or grass-fed/raw milk!
Looking forward to feeling better
Do you use canned or refrigerated coconut milk? Could I use MCT oil instead or is there a specific benefit to using coconut milk?
You can use either! Or you can use cow milk. The purpose of the milk is to help stabilize your blood sugar.
Where do I find pull free orange juice? Thanks
Most groceries stores should carry it!
I think the recipe contains a typo: “pull free” orange juice probably should read “pulp free.”
Oops, thank you!
Does it matter if you drink this on an empty stomach or not? What scenario would give you the best benefits?
On an empty stomach is ideal. I use the coconut milk/milk to help stabilize blood sugar!
How often should we drink this, and for what duration of time? Everyday for a week, or until our symptoms are gone?
You can use the adrenal cocktail for as long as you want. It’s great to drink regularly, even if you feel your adrenal health is improving! I recommend drinking a serving at least once or twice a day.
What type of coconut milk do you use? The thick full-fat canned type, or the thinner refrigerated kinds?
You can use either kind!
Can I make a larger batch ahead of time and keep it in the fridge for each morning?
Oooh, I’m not sure this would last very well. But you can certainly give it a try!