Name: Creamsicle Adrenal Cocktail
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Yield: 1
Ingredients: 1/2 cup orange juice, no sugar added (and preferably freshly squeezed); 2 tbs almond or coconut milk, unsweetened; 1 scoop vanilla collagen; 1/4 tsp cream of tartar; 1/4 tsp sea saly or pink Himalayan salt

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 needed to fuel the adrenal glands, regulate cortisol production, protect against oxidative stress, and boost the immune system.

Almond or Coconut Milk- The essential fatty acids in almond and coconut milk will help stabilize blood sugar levels and provide your body with additional energy. Use your favorite unsweetened dairy-free milk, here!

Hydrolyzed Collagen Powder- Fundamentally, collagen act as a blood sugar regulator in the adrenal cocktail. More so, it provides essential amino acids to support gut health and boost cortisol production (which should be at it’s highest in the AM).

Cream of Tartar- You’re probably thinking, “ewh.” But, cream of tartar offers an abundance of minerals, especially 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, sea salt is a necessary nutrient. After all, it’s an essential electrolyte, 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? In the 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. Personally, I drink my Creamsicle Adrenal Cocktail first thing in the morning- after 20 ounces of water and before hitting the gym. However, you can drink your cocktail before or after breakfast (but, at least 30 minutes before or after food for that optimal digestion!).