Is Coffee an Adaptogen: Debunking the Myth
When it comes to beverages that promote mental wellbeing, one of the industry buzzwords is “adaptogens.” These are ingredients that work to counteract the effects of stress on the body, offering a wide range of benefits, from increased relaxation and quality of sleep to improved immunity. Many believe that adaption coffee, which involves adding different ingredients to your morning coffee, can mimic the effects of adaptogens. However, is coffee truly an adaptogen? Let’s explore this myth in detail.
Common Misconceptions
One common misconception is that adding adaptogens to your coffee can counteract the effects of stress hormones, particularly cortisol. In reality, coffee itself does not inherently reduce the release of cortisol; in fact, it increases the release of this stress hormone. But because caffeine is a stimulant, it provides a temporary feeling of alertness and energy, often referred to as a ‘positive effect’ until the caffeine content in the coffee wanes.
No, It’s Not Correct
Apart from these temporary boosts, coffee is not a substitute for genuine adaptogens. In low doses, coffee does serve as a source of antioxidants, vitamin B2, vitamin B5, and magnesium—all essential nutrients for the body. These antioxidants, particularly, can mitigate some of the negative effects of stress by reducing inflammation and promoting overall health.While it is true that adaptogens can help lower cortisol levels and provide a positive feeling throughout the day, the presence of caffeine in coffee often negates these benefits. Caffeine can lead to stimulant jitters and temporary stress, which can counteract the relaxing effects of adaptogens.
Adaptogenic Benefits of Coffee
Moreover, the role of adaptogens in enhancing the stimulating benefits of coffee is indeed valid. Adaptogens such as ashwagandha, rhodiola, and Lutheran can help reduce the impact of stress hormones, allowing you to harness the benefits of your morning coffee without the negative side effects. When combined with these adaptogens, you may experience enhanced mental clarity, sustained energy, and reduced anxiety.
The Importance of Dosage
The key to enjoying the benefits of coffee as an adaptogen lies in the dosage. While a small amount of coffee can provide antioxidants and essential nutrients, the high caffeine content can induce stress and anxiety. By reducing the caffeine content in your coffee, for example, to as low as 50 mg per cup, and adding adaptogens, you can create a more balanced and stress-reducing beverage.For those looking to reduce their caffeine intake, there are innovative products that remove caffeine down to low levels and add adaptogens like ashwagandha, rhodiola, and Lutheran. These products can provide the energy and focus benefits of coffee without the negative side effects associated with caffeine.