Turmeric Latte – My Adrenal Enhancing Coffee Alternative (AIP/Paleo)

This turmeric latte number is one of the most popular on my site. It’s the little recipe that could…

First published back in mid-2016 when I was in the midst of dealing with a severe adrenal crash, this baby is not only a good way to increase your intake of that very nutrient-dense ingredient that is turmeric, but also a sneaky hot-drink alternative when you are working to reduce your caffeine intake…

“It is not a daily increase, but a daily decrease. Hack away at the inessentials.” – Bruce Lee

So, I’m waiting for an updated diagnosis on the state of my adrenals.

You already know that I’m a worrier of EPIC proportions.

Recently, I hit a bit of a wall. Well, to be honest, it was a pretty scary BIG wall. And, despite already understanding that my adrenals need some TLC, I’m on a bit of a mission to actually do something about it now. Sometimes, even health coaches can be a bit slow about these things.

Not sure what your adrenals actually do?

Your adrenal function plays an important role in moderating the inflammatory processes characteristic of autoimmune reactions. Adrenal glands produce the hormone cortisol, which is the most powerful anti-inflammatory substance in your body. In autoimmune disease, cortisol levels are inadequate for the degree of reaction taking place in the tissues being attacked.

Cortisol not only affects the the visible swelling of inflammation, it also influences the activity of the white blood cells that actually cause the inflammation and help keep immune reactions in balance. Cortisol activates existing immune defense mechanisms when they are needed, and it dampens them down to prevent them from overshooting and causing damage or cell death. Through this ‘damping down’ action, cortisol modulates the immune response. Healthy adrenal function and cortisol output is pretty important for optimal health.

During adrenal fatigue, it is less likely that your adrenal glands can produce enough cortisol to adequately fight autoimmune inflammatory reactions.

The very first thing I’ve done to help my poor wee adrenals is give up coffee. (Sniff.)

Constant stimulation weakens your adrenals. And, coffee is a stimulant.

Kind of a no brainer, really.

Every time you drink a cup of coffee, your brain sends a message to your pituitary gland, which releases a hormone to tell your adrenals to produce stress hormones – adrenaline and cortisol. Our brain can’t differentiate between a stimulant like coffee and say, spotting a poisonous spider. That means we’re triggering the same kind of stress response that our body uses when it thinks it’s in imminent physical danger. Sad but true.

Giving up my morning cup of coffee might sound daunting – and, it’s fair to say I miss it dreadfully – but it’s an important part of recovering from adrenal fatigue.

So instead, I’m experimenting with alternatives. There’s only so much water a girl can drink!

Of course, there’s always that trusty AIP stalwart – bone broth; but, honestly? – I’d be lying if I said the idea of a cup of this filled me with excitement. I’m quite partial to a peppermint tea, especially made with fresh mint.

But, with winter coming, I’ve been turning to my turmeric latte…

It makes me feel like I’m indulging. The ginger is warming in the cooler weather. And, that turmeric is so good for me.

Don’t believe me? – look at all the good stuff turmeric can do for you…