Stress Care and Adaptogens ~Nutritionist's Column Vol.23

September 11, 2020

COLUMN

This time we will talk about adaptogens, very valuable substances that have been used in Indian Ayurveda and Chinese medicine since ancient times.

The term adaptogens refers to "natural substances" found in herbs, plant roots, and fungi such as mushrooms, and is different from direct nutrients such as vitamins and minerals.

The word comes from a combination of "adapt," meaning "to adapt," and "gen," meaning "something that arises." In earnest research into this topic began around 80 years ago, around 1940, and it is now also being applied to skin care and supplements.

The main role of adaptogens is to promote hormone balance, increase resistance and immunity, and normalize bodily functions. They are said to regulate the level of cortisol, known as the "stress hormone," and have the effect of suppressing stress and calming anxiety.

In today's world, which is said to be a stressful one, I believe that "adaptogen" will become a trending keyword.

When you hold on to stress, your skin can become damaged, your body can feel heavy, and you can lose motivation.
I would like to talk a little about this type of stress.

Since Hans Selye proposed the concept of "stress," the term has become widely known not only in the medical community but also among the general public.
Originally, stress was a state of tension that arose when exposed to external stimuli.
Stress was not simply viewed as something bad as it is today, but rather as existing in terms of both "good stress" and "bad stress."

You may be wondering, is there such thing as good stress?
What is perceived as "good stress" is something that increases motivation.
It creates positive energy that allows you to face external stimuli with a positive attitude.

On the other hand, "bad stress" is caused by heat, cold, noise, chemicals, diverse interpersonal relationships, etc.
It can have effects such as irritability, a feeling of lethargy and fatigue that is hard to shake off, and an inability to concentrate on studying or work. If you neglect to deal with these stresses, in the worst case scenario, it can even lead to illness.

Specific measures for stress care are listed below.
We tend to think of changing the way we think, having fun, or relaxing, but in order to create a mind and body that is resistant to stress, other recommended methods include incorporating aromas into your life and paying attention to the nutrients in your diet.
If you continue to feel a little different from your usual self, consulting a medical institution can of course help prevent the condition from worsening.

Of particular note are preventive measures and treatments in the field of "food."
In the global wellness market, stress management through diet and supplement intake is becoming increasingly popular.
It is recommended to incorporate a diet rich in protein, vitamin C, and magnesium, which are known to be anti-stress nutrients.
A genre of supplements known as "mood foods" has become a trending keyword.

Mood foods often contain ingredients such as phytochemicals and amino acids, such as theanine and GABA found in green tea, and herbs such as chamomile, which are believed to promote restful sleep and relaxation, as well as ingredients that fall under the category of "adaptogens."

Adaptogens, which are expected to increase the body's resistance to physical, chemical, biological and psychological stressors and regulate hormone balance, are being actively adopted as a key ingredient in mood foods and are attracting more and more attention as the mood food market grows.

In today's society, where the threat of invisible viruses and anxiety about the future are growing due to the impact of the new coronavirus, the effects of adaptogens, such as calming the nervous system and reducing fatigue, as well as improving energy levels, strengthening immune function, and improving concentration, are likely to become even more necessary in the future.

Below are some examples of plants that are known as adaptogens:

Maca: Rich in essential amino acids such as lead, iron, and calcium, it was even called the "Queen of Medicinal Herbs" in the Andes. It is expected to increase physical strength and overall energy, and also have a skin-beautifying effect.

Holy Basil: One of the most noble herbs in Ayurveda. Perfect for stress relief and relaxation.

Korean Ginseng: It is believed to improve vitality, endurance, and mental awareness. It can also be used to improve poor circulation.

Ashwagandha: A plant from the nightshade family that is said to increase physical strength, stress resistance, and immune system.

Jiaogulan: A vine plant of the Cucurbitaceae family that is said to regulate hormone balance and relieve stress.

Reishi: A mythical mushroom that has long been prized as a traditional Chinese medicine for boosting the immune system.

Chaga: Also known as obliquus obliquus. A type of highly nutritious mushroom that parasitizes birch trees.

Cordyceps sinensis: A type of mushroom that has been valued as a luxury food ingredient, having the ability to relieve stress and act as a tonic.

Maca is also an ingredient in GRØN's protein blend, Red Heat . There are many supplements out there that contain these ingredients, even if they aren't labeled as "adaptogens," so why not find one that's right for you and give it a try?

In addition, instead of relying solely on supplements, it is also a good idea to eat a diet that includes nutrients such as protein, vitamin C, and magnesium, which are said to be good for stress management, and to incorporate relaxation methods that suit you, such as yoga or meditation, into your daily life.

In this era of rapid change, let's live fulfilling days without succumbing to the various stresses that come our way.

Protein Blend Red Heat 20g / 320 yen (excluding tax)

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Nutritionist, Food Education Instructor, Food 6th Industrialization Producer Level 4
Ayako Ishihara

A nutritional advisor in the healthcare field and an agribusiness professional.
She is involved in a variety of activities specializing in the fields of beauty and health, including giving lectures to Miss World Japan candidates.

With the philosophy of "enriching the mind and body through food and realizing a vibrant society where people and communities are connected," he founded i-Field Co., Ltd. in 2013 and serves as its representative.
He is a core member of the food team for "DINING OUT," which opens outdoor restaurants in various regions, and also participates in fashion brand projects.
She is also involved in the promotion of local ingredients, product development and production specializing in "health" and "beauty," branding, concept design, food hygiene, sales promotion, training planning and management, etc. She is in charge of nutritional supervision for GRØN's product development, proposing ways to incorporate them more effectively into consumer health.

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