Get Going with this Maca Latte
Caffeine can be very hard on the adrenal glands when consumed daily. What does that mean? Well, it can make it difficult for your body to sustain energy and even blood sugar levels throughout the day. There are more healthy ways to get that ‘kick’ you are looking for without the negative side effects.
But first…
What is Maca?
Maca is an adaptogen, which means it can help to support hormonal, nervous and cardiovascular systems. It is also said to be quite effective for improving libido.
While the concept of adaptogens may sound wishy washy, there’s a growing body of research to back up those claims. Adaptogens are chemically complex, with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds in addition to polysaccharides, fatty acids, and active compounds that are unique to each plant.
Most adaptogens can impact a variety of systems in the body, and the effects can be individual. What they do have in common, however, is an impact on the stress hormone cortisol and other stress response factors.
Does Maca Taste good?
Maca has a malty and sweet flavour, maybe a bit caramelly with hints of vanilla. It is delicious in smoothies, mixed into overnight oats, or, in a lovely chocolatey
Maca Latte Ingredients:
- 1 cup dairy free milk (coconut or almond or oat at good) – heated
- 1 tsp maca powder
- 1 tsp cacao powder (optional)
- 1 tbsp MCT oil
- Splash of vanilla and/or sprinkle of cinnamon
- Dash of stevia or monk fruit sweetener to taste
Simply combine all ingredients together and blend!
Is Coffee not good for you?
Moderation is key! And some clients may be told to avoid it for a period of time while their body heals.
To be an educated consumer, you have to consider both the pro’s and the con’s to consuming coffee.
The Positives:
- Coffee is a source of anti-inflammatory and vitality boosting compounds known as antioxidants.
- Stimulates brain activity and the production of dopamine (which explains its addictive quality)
- Minimizes cognitive decline and risk for Alzheimer’s
- Increases metabolic rate
- Lowers the risk of cardiovascular disease and diabetes
- Increases alertness and decreases fatigue
The Negatives:
- Can raise blood pressure
- May increase cortisol secretion which in turn can lead to inflammation in the body
- Can contribute to insomnia, anxiety
- Regular coffee is acidic and may lead to digestive issues like heartburn and acid reflux
- May lead to dehydration and a loss of vitamins B and C, calcium, iron and zinc
- Can stain teeth
If you absolutely love your coffee and can’t give it up, then try these tricks to make it healthier: buy organic coffee, mix a teaspoon of coconut oil or coconut butter in your coffee, add a teaspoon of raw cacao, stay away from syrups and creamers, consume it within 15 minutes (it becomes really acidic after that), don’t drink it after 2pm if you want to limit sleep disturbances, and reduce intake to one coffee per day in the morning, we have options for you!
Top Tips for Reducing Caffeine
-Cut back your consumption of coffee by half a cup per day.
-Switch to adaptogenic coffee blends like: Four Sigmatic and Focus Fuel!
-Transition from coffee to green tea (or Matcha or herbal tea over the course of a few days
-Increase your water intake significantly – 8 glasses a day!·
-Try herbal “coffee” substitutes like Dandy Blend or Teeccino
-Last but not least: a little bit of dark chocolate (70% or higher) might also help!
Crina Creta, Registered Nutritionist, Oakville