Herbed Chicken Bites: The Power of Protein for Adrenals
The Power of Protein in Adrenal Health
Adrenal dysfunction, including conditions like adrenal fatigue and Addison's disease, disrupts the delicate balance of hormone production in the body, leading to a host of symptoms such as chronic fatigue, muscle weakness, and mood swings. Diet plays a crucial role in managing these conditions, with protein being a key nutrient. Protein helps stabilize blood sugar levels, supports muscle repair, and boosts overall energy—critical factors for individuals coping with adrenal dysfunction.
1. **Stabilizes Blood Sugar Levels**: Proteins have a lower glycemic index compared to carbohydrates, leading to a slower release of glucose into the bloodstream. This helps prevent the blood sugar spikes and crashes that can exacerbate adrenal fatigue symptoms.
2. **Supports Muscle Repair and Growth**: Chronic fatigue often leads to muscle weakness. Adequate protein intake provides the necessary amino acids for muscle repair and growth, helping improve overall strength and energy levels.
3. **Enhances Mood and Cognitive Function**: Protein-rich foods contain amino acids like tryptophan, which is a precursor to serotonin—a neurotransmitter that regulates mood and sleep.
Herbed Chicken Bites Recipe: A Protein-Rich, Gluten-Free Delight
This herbed chicken bites recipe is not only packed with high-quality protein but also infused with herbs and spices that support adrenal health. Lemon provides a refreshing zest and boosts vitamin C intake, while avocado oil and garlic add healthy fats and anti-inflammatory properties.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. **Marinate the Chicken**: In a large bowl, combine the avocado oil, minced garlic, thyme, lemon zest, lemon juice, sea salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken pieces and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
2. **Preheat the Oven**: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. **Bake the Chicken**: Arrange the marinated chicken pieces on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown.
4. **Serve and Enjoy**: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. These herbed chicken bites can be enjoyed on their own, added to salads, or served with a side of roasted vegetables.
Nutritional Benefits
*Protein*: Each serving of herbed chicken bites provides a substantial amount of high-quality protein, essential for muscle repair and energy.
*Healthy Fats*: Avocado oil is rich in monounsaturated fats, which support hormone production and reduce inflammation.
*Vitamins and Minerals*: Lemon juice and zest are excellent sources of vitamin C, which supports immune function and adrenal health. Garlic and thyme offer additional antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.
Incorporating protein-rich foods like these herbed chicken bites into your diet can significantly support adrenal function, helping to manage symptoms and improve overall well-being. By choosing nutrient-dense, whole foods, individuals with adrenal dysfunction can pave the way toward better health and vitality.
Here is a link to a guide I put together on adrenal health and hormones. Enjoy!
If you’d like to work with me I’d be honored. Schedule here.
Blessings In Health!
Marcia Jones, NP
P.S. If you are interested in Functional Medicine for your women’s health, hormonal bliss, adrenal health and answers to lingering misery, you can schedule with me at marciajonesnp.com.
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Marcia Jones, NP offers a Hormone Focused Functional Medicine Clinic, replacing fear, uncertainty and despair with answers, guidance and HOPE in breast cancer and hormonal health through functional medicine.