Adrenal Cocktail (Mocktail, really)
The #1 drink recipe I recommend to all my clients: The Adrenal Cocktail, or what I like to call, "The Orange Creamsicle".
But why are you recommending a cocktail and what the heck is an adrenal!?
Two very good questions! First and foremost, I’m not sure why this popular drink is called a cocktail seeing as how it’s alcohol free but I recommend this recipe to my clients because most of my clients are stressed, burned out, lethargic, have sleep issues, and the list goes on!
WHAT IS AN ADRENAL?
The adrenals are actually hormone glands that are located on top of both kidneys. These glands produce hormones that help to regulate your metabolism, glucose usage, blood pressure, immune system, and response to stress.
The central theme here is balance. We want to make sure that we are supporting our body’s natural ability to regulate blood sugar, increase insulin sensitivity, and improve metabolic flexibility. One small way we can do that is to make a nourishing drink that can bring balance back and give our adrenals some love in return! Adjusting macronutrient ratios as needed is imperative to reduce spikes in blood sugar and insulin. So for this recipe, our macro ratios are equal in order to support the adrenals while providing essential vitamins and minerals for healing any insulin resistance or adrenal fatigue.
YOU WILL NEED:
Fresh fruit juice (carbohydrate source) - Fruit juice like orange juice has high amounts of vitamin C which is needed when your adrenal glands are producing cortisol during stressful situations. The antioxidant properties are also needed in order to fuel the adrenal glands, protect against oxidative stress, boost the immune system and regulate cortisol production.
I like using this organic orange juice brand because there are no preservatives, no artificial ingredients, no added sugar, nada!
Coconut Cream/Milk (Fat source) - Coconut milk has stable, saturated fatty acids that help stabilize blood sugar levels and provides your body with energy. Depending on your preference in texture, you can use either unsweetened coconut milk or cream. Personally, I think the cream is better and provides that “creamsicle” taste to the drink!
Hydrolyzed Collagen Powder (Protein Source) - Collagen acts as a blood sugar regulator and provides essential amino acids to support and build a resilient gut and boost cortisol production. My shop page has my favorite collagen of choice, vital proteins.
Sea Salt (Bonus* Mineral Source) - Sea salt and pink Himalayan sea salt contain essential electrolytes and minerals like potassium, sodium, and magnesium that are key for energy production, blood pressure, and adrenal function. Salt also elevates the flavor of the drink so don’t skimp!
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.
WHEN TO MAKE AN ADRENAL COCKTAIL
When your energy levels are low between 10-11AM and 2-3PM.
Right before bedtime - if you experience waking up at 3AM
Pre / Post workout snack
Breakfast - If you find yourself not hungry upon waking up and usually skip breakfast, this drink is a great way to kickstart that metabolism!
INGREDIENTS
4-6 oz freshly squeezed orange juice or juice of choice
2 Tbsp coconut milk or cream
1 scoop of collagen
1/4 tsp of cream of tartar
Generous pinch of Redmond real salt and/or other mineral source
BONUS: I like to add a couple chucks of frozen mango and/or pineapple
DIRECTIONS
Mix all ingredients in a glass or blender and enjoy!
NOTES
You can make this into a latte by simply steaming the coconut milk/cream in a milk frother and pouring it into the glass with the other ingredients. Stir to combine and enjoy!
