In a world where more people are turning to prescription and supplement sleep aids, a whole food solution for sleep and health may not be the first choice. However, as a Functional Nutrition & Lifestyle Practitioner, whole foods and natural options are my go-to. If a good night’s sleep is a challenge for you, join me. I will share my secret bedtime drink for people who need better sleep.
Turmeric is one of the most researched plants on the planet. Over 8000 scientific studies explore and confirm turmeric’s medicinal properties. Everything from depression and diabetes, to inflammation and blood pressure regulation; even liver detoxification and immune system support!
This is an ingredient that you definitely want to have on hand.
First, the good news: turmeric is affordable and available. Second, it has a neutral taste. Third, it is easy to incorporate into your daily routine. Hint: it’s the star of our bedtime elixir recipe!
Traditionally, turmeric is used in teas, curries, broths and herbal supplements. Those are great ways to get turmeric into play. But, as a healthy foodie, you are probably familiar with adding turmeric to a meal.
Here’s my truth:
I’ve had a relationship with turmeric for years. It’s been in my soups and stews. I toss in with my potatoes and pasta sauces. It even gets added into my morning smoothies! As a student of Ayurveda, I learned that daily use of turmeric could have a profoundly positive impact on my health. So, we’ve been in a hot little relationship ever since!
Turmeric tea sipped throughout the day is a go-to if I’m feeling bloated or at all inflamed. I simply slice a piece of turmeric root and a piece of ginger. Then, I grate them and add to a pot with water. Finally, simmer, steep and sip.
Incorporating turmeric into my nighttime routine has been magical. You deserve something magical, too!
Turmeric And Coconut Milk Bedtime Elixir
Servings: 4
Turmeric-infused coconut milk is delicious and warming. Try this before bed to improve digestion. It can calm the nervous system and help prepare you for restful sleep. Best results will be seen over time. The ingredients work to nourish and replenish your body.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups coconut milk
- 2 tsp powdered turmeric or 2 tbsp peeled, fresh turmeric
- 2 tsp powdered ginger or 2 tbsp peeled, fresh ginger
- ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 tbsp coconut oil
- 2 tbsp maple syrup, raw honey OR a squirt of liquid stevia
- 12 peppercorns, gently crushed
Directions:
- First, combine everything except the coconut oil into a saucepan and bring to a simmer.
- Next, let the mixture bubble gently for about 5 minutes, then shut off the heat.
- After about 5 minutes of cooling, strain the mixture through cheesecloth (or a fine strainer if you prefer a smoother texture).
- Stir in the coconut oil.
- Finally, taste and add maple syrup, honey or stevia if desired!
The Amazing Benefits and WHY You Should Consider This Turmeric Coconut Bedtime Elixir:
- Coconut Milk And Coconut Oil – The fiber and fat content of coconut are what help coax sound sleep. Fiber and fat support balanced blood sugar.
- Turmeric – Known to reduce inflammation, support brain and joint health; liver protective.
- Ginger – Natural anti-inflammatory that can help relieve symptoms of arthritis, bursitis and other musculoskeletal issues. Particularly calming for the digestive tract. For sleep, it’s the melatonin present in ginger that seals the deal!
- Nutmeg – Acts as a natural relaxant in small doses.
- Black Pepper – piperine in pepper enhances the absorption of curcumin. It contains nutrients, including manganese, iron and vitamin K. Also, commonly used to calm digestive issues.
Bonus Tip –
Some golden milk recipes include cinnamon. As a Functional Nutritionist, I encourage you to skip cinnamon at bedtime. Why? Because cinnamon is more of a stimulant. Traditional aromatherapy uses cassia and cinnamon oil to promote alertness. While the scent is warm and comforting, the spice helps stimulate digestive fire. So, save cinnamon for the morning cup!
Sources:
http://www.drweil.com/drw/u/ART03511/Dr-Weil-Anti-Inflammatory-Golden-Milk.html