Adrenal Fatigue Diet Smoothie

The term “adrenal fatigue” is being used to describe a set of symptoms including body aches, fatigue, unexplained weight loss, low blood pressure, lightheadedness, loss of body hair, and skin discoloration. To understand what adrenal fatigue is, it’s important to note what the adrenal glands do. The adrenal fatigue diet is still a fairly new concept… yet powerful.

The adrenal glands sit atop the kidneys and produce a variety of essential-to-life hormones. In short, these hormones are responsible for regulating the body’s metabolism, immune system suppression, regulation of blood pressure and electrolyte balance, and the rapid response to stress. (Think: flight or fight response.)

Lifestyle and diet changes are usually necessary to recover from adrenal fatigue.

Adrenal Fatigue Smoothie Ingredients

This smoothie is chock full of nutritious ingredients chosen for their anti-inflammatory and adrenal-supporting properties.

• Spinach is high in iron as well as contains moderate amounts of vitamins B6 and C. If you want to have it on hand for smoothies anytime, you can check out my simple guide to freeze spinach.
• Cauliflower is high in vitamin C, and is a great source of B6 and magnesium.
• Coconut water provides extra B6, magnesium, and iron.
• Pineapple is extremely high in vitamin C, and one cup provides another 10% RDV of B6 and 5% magnesium. For easy prep, check out our guide to learn how to cut pineapple.
• Turmeric is well-known for its anti-inflammatory properties thanks to curcumin, but it’s also high in iron and B6.
• Flax oil is one of the best sources of omega-3 fatty acids.

This smoothie is hydrating and full of heart- and GI-tract-friendly dietary fiber. If you’re not sure where to start, check out my guide on how to make a smoothie.

Using Adaptogens in Smoothies

Another helpful way to combat adrenal fatigue is to include adaptogenic herbs in your diet. They can better help your body respond to stress and recharge the adrenal glands. An adrenal fatigue diet can truly give you the energy and healing you need quickly! Food is medicine.

The best adaptogens for stress are rhodiola, mucuna pruriens, ashwaganda, cordyceps, schisandra, and licorice root. Maca and ginseng are great for fatigue. I use Four Sigmatic mushroom blend when trying to add more adaptogens to my diet.

A word of caution: discuss using these herbs with your healthcare provider as some adaptogens may interact with any prescription medications or supplements.

How To Recover From Adrenal Fatigue

If you are treating adrenal fatigue, here’s a few tips to help you recover:

• Follow an adrenal fatigue diet which entails avoiding foods that cause inflammation and loading up on anti-inflammatory foods.
• Eat high-protein foods as well as plenty of vegetables and whole grains
• Avoid refined sugars and processed foods
• Go to bed early (and drink a bedtime smoothie)
• Take a supplement with B5, B6, and B12 vitamins (under doctor supervision)
• Consume foods high in omega-3 fatty acids, curcumin (turmeric), and vitamin C
• Add adaptogenic herbs to your diet – cordyceps, ashwagandha, rehmannia, and licorice root
• Hydrate properly throughout the day
• Replace any missing nutrients (confirmed by doctor’s blood test and under supervision) such as vitamin D, magnesium, zinc, and selenium
• Rest during the day, as needed
• Participate in regular meditation and use other stress-relieving breathing techniques
• Do yoga or another mild exercise (as not to create more fatigue)

Foods That Fight Fatigue

Eat foods that help the body do its best work. While food alone can’t fix all your problems, it can certainly work for or against you. I drink a daily green smoothie because I know the more plants I eat, the better I feel… and the less I get sick, worn down, and stressed.

Here are specific plants that can help your body fight adrenal fatigue, and help make up the adrenal fatigue diet smoothie below:

• Legumes: Legumes are a great protein option, and easy to use in a variety of recipes.
• Nuts: Add a handful of nuts to your smoothie, or non-dairy milk (homemade or store bought) as your liquid base. You can find out some great options in my blog on the best almond milk brands.
• Leafy greens: Add a cup or more of leafy green vegetables to any smoothie you make; fresh or frozen.
• Colorful vegetables: Eating veggies doesn’t have to be boring. Delicious meals can be loaded with plants + taste good too.
• Whole grains: Toss into a smoothie or bake with whole grains once and have breakfast for the week.
• Low sugar fruits: You’d be surprised at some fruits that are low on the glycemic index! Smoothies can be both sweet and low in sugar.
• Healthy fats: Not all fat is the same and fat is a necessary part of a healthy diet. Learn what fats are healthy + how to use them in any recipe you want.

More Adrenal Supporting Drinks

Feeling drained? Simple drinks can help support your adrenal health while keeping you energized. From herbal tonics to quick green smoothies, these adrenal-friendly beverages are a delicious way to nourish your body:

• Adrenal Cocktail (Cortisol Cocktail)
• Ginger Switchel Recipe (Nature’s Gatorade)
• How to Clear Brain Fog with a Smoothie

If you make this adrenal fatigue diet smoothie, I’d love to hear how it turned out in the comment box below. Your feedback helps me and all the readers in this community. And if you’re interested in more plant-based recipes (and exclusive content), sign up for my weekly recipe newsletter.