At long last I’m able to give you a bit of an update on my recent health struggles! If you’re catching up, read this post and this post (and the comments) first.
Well, where did we leave off? To start, I’m so thankful to have found a great naturopath after not having an overly helpful experience earlier in the year. I’ve been struggling with my symptoms on and off for years now, so it’s been a huge relief to finally get some answers! Slowly but surely I’m starting to feel like a new person. My recent tests showed that my hormones are a hot mess…estrogen is too high, my morning cortisol is way too low (hello, feeling like a zombie even after a decent night’s sleep), and one of my thyroid hormones is also too low. My doctor had suspected many of these results based on my symptoms, but it was interesting to see them on paper! I’m definitely no expert on this stuff, but I learned that when one hormone is off, it can impact another…and on and on the cycle goes, often throwing your entire system out of whack in the process. I felt such relief knowing that how I was feeling wasn’t just in my head all this time.
It’s so easy to push through feeling awful, blaming your symptoms on other things. I can’t even tell you how many times I told myself that I felt like crap because I was a new mom, or I was nursing and up in the middle of the night, or I was working out too hard (or not enough), or I wasn’t taking my vitamins, or my diet wasn’t balanced, or I was just feeling anxious about changes in my life. Some of those things may have been part of the issue, but I overlooked the real possibility that something beyond my immediate control was at work.
Dear self: it’s okay to ask for help.
Speaking of which, my biggest regret is that I didn’t get help for my symptoms sooner. It’s easy to put off, especially when Dr. Google is at your fingertips. Everyone would tell me how important it is to take care of myself while raising two young kids, but most days I just pushed it aside and tried to rely on the fact that I am a generally healthy person who eats well and exercises. My mom and Nicole were the ones who finally pushed me to get help…we all need those people in our lives who look out for us! Sometimes you have to learn the hard way, but I’m grateful for this lesson and wake-up call. I may have ignored my body’s messages for quite some time, but once I commit to something, I’m all-in, and I’ve been such a good “student” these past few months!
Taking the time to heal has set me back on some career goals this year, but sometimes there’s no better goal than good health. I actually can’t think of a better way to celebrate OSG’s upcoming 10-year milestone than circling back to my journey to health, which is the reason I started my blog! It’s just another reminder that our journey is always changing and evolving over time.
I’ll try to update you again as soon as I have more to share, but in the meantime if you have any questions, or would like to share your own experiences, I would LOVE to read them below.
Oh, and I should probably mention this recipe before I go! My naturopath recently encouraged me to add more green tea to my diet, and this has been my go-to mix. I had requests for the recipe after sharing it on Insta Stories last week, so I decided to put it up on both the app and blog! I hope you’ll find this warm, creamy matcha blend as calming and gently energizing as I have.
Featuring all new, protein-packed salads, hearty toppers, flavour boosters, and dressings you'll want to drink, my new cookbook will transform the way you think about salads. Oh, and be sure to flip to the back for a surprise dessert chapter!
Sleepy Morning Blender Matcha
Yield
1 1/3 cups (330 mL)
Prep time
Cook time
0 minutes
Total time
You know when you wake up on a chilly morning and need a hot drink now? Well this is my go-to on fall and winter mornings (or afternoons!) when I want a change from coffee. The thought of this smooth, warm, creamy drink seriously lures me out of my cozy bed. I love how effortless this recipe is, especially on those half-awake, barely functioning mornings (just make sure you’re alert enough to operate a blender with hot liquid!). I love matcha green tea powder because it delivers calming, jitter-free energy as well as powerful antioxidants. Be sure to see my Deluxe Version in the Tips section below for a more decadent way to make this beverage—when I want an especially comforting treat, I’ll forgo the water and only use canned coconut milk.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (250 mL) water
- 1/3 cup (80 mL) canned light coconut milk, room temperature*
- 1/2 teaspoon matcha green tea powder, or to taste**
- 1 teaspoon (5 mL) pure maple syrup, or to taste (optional)
Directions
- Add the water to a kettle or pot and bring to a boil.
- While the water heats up, add the coconut milk and matcha powder to a high-speed blender.
- Once the water has boiled, remove it from the heat and let sit for 15 seconds. Carefully add it to the blender along with the maple syrup (if using).
- If your blender’s lid is vented, secure it on top. If you don’t have a vented lid, keep the lid slightly ajar so air can escape. Blend on the lowest speed, very slowly increasing to medium, for about 20 seconds until frothy and combined.
- Immediately pour into a mug and enjoy your cozy cup o’ green!
Tip:
* If using already chilled canned coconut milk, add an extra 1/3 cup (80 mL) hot water to ensure your blend is hot enough (nobody wants lukewarm tea, if you know what I mean!). Be sure to stir the coconut milk before measuring.
** My preferred brand of matcha powder is DoMatcha Organic Summer Harvest Matcha Powder.
Deluxe Version: Heat 1 cup (250 mL) canned light coconut milk on the stovetop over medium heat, watching closely to ensure it doesn’t boil over. Once it starts to simmer and froth, immediately remove it from the heat. Add this to the blender along with the matcha powder (and maple syrup, if using). Follow steps 4 and 5 above and enjoy your extra-creamy tea!
Nutrition Information
(click to expand)
Sorry to hear you’ve not been well. Hormones can be so hard to pin down, I’ve just been diagnosed with endometriosis after years of feeling rubbish and going back and fore to the doctor. Great that you’re getting help!
Thank you, y they really can and are so complex!
I’m sorry to hear about your diagnosis, but so glad you’re getting some answers after years of not knowing what was going on. I hope you’re able to get some relief soon. :)
I hear ya on the hormones! I finally got tested after having baby no 2 and it turns out a lot of my post party anxiety was actually due to super low (like non-existent) progesterone. I needed meds after my first baby, but now I realize the drop in hormones caused most of it and I didn’t need any medication after baby no 2! Just some help with my progesterone! Happy you’re better now!
I didn’t have endometriosis but did have the hormonal imbalances resulting in infertility! It was awful. So unlike Angela who eliminated foods for allergies (and for a loooooog time I suspected allergies) I tried everything to get my hormones in whack. Still not great! But truly, recipes on this blog and a few others have helped me gain control…..especially how I feel. Not only about myself but that I’m doing everything humanly possible to feel and look my best. That’s all we can do! I can’t wait to try this recipe =) www.raiseyourgarden.com
Hey Laura, Thank you so much for sharing! I can relate to your approach as using food to feel good and in control when so many other things can feel out of control. And I’m so touched that my recipes have helped you during this process.
This is exactly how I’ve been feeling too! Two young kids around the same ages as yours, no time for myself and just not 100 percent. After years of pregnancy and breastfeeding, I know what I need to do to be healthy but have been running on fumes, cookies and coffee to just keep muscling through each sleep-deprived day. I keep reminding myself that I have to stay healthy so I can look after my family but it’s really hard to prioritize sometimes because it kind of feels selfish? I heard a very impactful story about a woman with three young kids who felt run down and exhausted and ignored it. She ended up having advanced colon cancer but assumed her weight loss and exhaustion were just related to being a mother of young kids and didn’t get it checked out. I remind myself of this story when I feel like I can’t make time for myself – I need to be healthy for them if not myself! I am also going to see a naturopath (after saying that for two years!) to really get on top of things. Looking forward to following the rest of your journey!
Kate, I’m sorry to hear you’re struggling with similar things. I felt like I could’ve written that myself. I’m so glad that you booked an appointment…sometimes that’s the hardest step! I should’ve made mine about 3 years sooner, but better late than never I suppose. ;) I wish you all the best and hope you are able to get some answers too.
I only recently started following you on Instagram but went out and bought your cookbook “oh she glows” and love it! I made your thumbprint cookies which were a huge hit with my 14 year old son! As I write this comment I am sitting in my son’s hospital room who happens to have Panhypopituitary so as a result is cortisol deficient, hypothyroid, growth hormone deficiency among other issues. I have always looked for healthy recipes to help keep him healthy and your posts and book have resonated with me and are so helpful. Just last week I made your instant pot recipe that you had shared on Instagram. I had to modify it a bit since I made it in a regular pot but it was a Thai curry with lentils, butter nut squash and cauliflower…absolutely delicious!!! Thanks so much!
Hi Pauline, Aww big hugs to you and your son. I can’t thank you enough for your support and I’m so happy the recipes are helping you navigate the health challenges. I’m sending all my positive vibes to you both!
Thank you for the update Angela! Even though I’ve had some “chronic” health challenges as well, the experience I’ve had with a few naturopaths has been less than helpful. I understand that sometimes supplements can help but I feel uncomfortable getting pushed hundreds of dollars worth of products on me every time. I still believe in naturopathy but I’m not sure how to find a practitioner who I can “vibe” with,
It can be so challenging to find the right fit…I totally get that. I hope you find someone who can help you soon!
I’m sorry you haven’t been feeling well. Hope you are on a path to feeling better. I just had cortisol testing done and it validates why I’m so exhausted. My levels were so low! Taking care of ourselves as busy moms is so important. Best of luck to you!
I feel like it’s so common…I always blamed it on the kids being up in the night, but once I had a couple weeks of okay sleep I was like…okay I’m STILL exhausted, what gives? I hope you are starting to feel better!
Hormonal struggles are tricky and quite the snowball effect. I felt like I was crazy until I got my diagnosis of PCOS last year, so I’m happy for you that you have some answers. I have to say because it helped me so much I’m always excited to share, but read the book Woman Code. It gives the most amazingly explanation and insight into female hormones and honestly saved me. I went from 1 period in 12 months with a slew of other symptoms to being regular and most of my symptoms disappearing using the knowledge from her book. I loosely follow her protocol in a plant based way but I can’t recommend reading it enough even Just for the understanding of hormones. hope you feel well soon!
Hey Becky, Wow I’m so glad you have found some relief! I’ve heard great things about that book and I really appreciate you reminding me about it. Making a note to check it out soon. :) Thanks for your well wishes too!
I’m a first time visitor to your site. Great site!
I’m sorry to hear that you’ve been going through these health issues. Although I’m a guy, I can understand – my wife feels tired and exhausted all the time ever since we had a baby 2 years ago. Just watching her be a warrior makes me realize I could do so much more to support her and be present. I really admire the courage and endurance that women show before, during and after childbirth. I’m glad to hear that you’ve got support.
Wow, this is such a beautiful comment, Sriram. Thank you for sharing. I’m sure it means the world to your wife to have your support! I hope she feels better soon.
Hi Angela
Love your story!! As a naturopath myself who focuses on hormones and fertility, it is a story I hear time and time again and it is so great that you are sharing it. We need more women to feel comfortable reaching out for support and getting the health care they deserve. Wishing you all the best on your health journey.
Hi Laura, Thank you so much for your support! It means a lot to me. :) My naturopath also said the same about how common postpartum hormone issues are. I’m sure I have been dealing with it since my firstborn and just didn’t realize. Better late than never though. ;)
For sure! The most important thing if that you did something, you are on a mission with a purpose and should be very proud :)
Thanks so much for your kind words Laura :)
I can very much relate too and would love to read more about the things (or foods) you’ve ended up trying! For me, fatigue (or lack of energy) has been such a struggle, it’s the main reason I first went vegan. And even though my new diet (not just vegan but also more whole foods, fruits and veggies) has definitely helped, I still feel I’m running uphill far too often. I’ve heard a lot lately about gut health and have been experimenting with eliminating gluten, and that seems to make a big difference already! I also started taking evening primrose oil and it has totally helped me in stabilizing my monthly cycles (before I had really long irregular cycles). It’s a difficult search, first we have to admit there is a real problem, than we need to find the right doctor and even then it’s like finding a needle in a haystack I feel. But I totally agree it is the best investment we can make in ourselves! Thank you for sharing your journey! And so happy to hear you are already seeing results! :)
“It’s a difficult search, first we have to admit there is a real problem, than we need to find the right doctor and even then it’s like finding a needle in a haystack I feel. But I totally agree it is the best investment we can make in ourselves!” Yes…totally nodding my head to this Monique.
I’m doing a lot of things…haha…it would probably feel overwhelming to list them, but as I’ve learned it’s often not just one issue, but a series of related complex issues that need addressing (at least for me). I’m making a lot of lifestyle and dietary changes (and supplements)! I’ll try to update in a future post once I have a better handle on things. :)
Thank you for sharing your health journey. How amazing it has been 10 years of OSG! BIG congratulations. While I’ve followed your blog and cooked from your books for years, this is my first comment. I just wanted to thank you for sharing your struggle with energy, balance and guilt for taking time to take care of yourself. I am a mom of two and the owner of a business that has grown exponentially since having kids. It is hard to balance exciting work opportunities, family time and health. I struggle with energy, anxiety, and feel “enough” regularly and it can be easy to assume that behind your beautiful blog and photos that you “have it all together or figured.” So, thanks for being honest and human. It means a lot.
This means so much Aimee! And it’s so cool that you’ve been following for years! Thank you. Yes, it’s hard opening up about (I felt nervous posting this blog post the other day!), but I would never want someone to think that I have it all figured out because I definitely don’t! Lol. It sounds like you have a lot on your plate too…growth is such a blessing, but the timing isn’t always ideal. ;) I hope you’re able to find help when needed and give yourself the permission to rest and slow down. It’s not an easy thing to do, but it makes a big difference.
Dear Angela,
I first came to your blog about 4 & 1/2 years ago – my daughter sent me the link to it. I had been vegetarian for about 8 years and really wanted to be fully vegan (out of compassion for animals), and your blog really encouraged me to feel that I could. It showed me that I could have a healthy and nourishing diet, and make a wide variety of delicious meals that even my omnivore husband would enjoy. The first thing I made was the Sun-dried Tomato, Mushroom and Spinach Tofu Quiche – it is so delicious! He said it was the best quiche he ever had! Thank you for your kindness and generosity in sharing your recipes and your experiences.
I’m now in my late 50’s and have three grown daughters. I remember back to those early days of caring for three small children. Although I didn’t have any severe or extreme symptoms like yours, I was often tired and run down and could have used some extra health support; but in those days naturopaths were not really well known. It’s so great that young mothers – and everyone – now have this recourse: a healthcare professional who focuses on natural remedies and good nutrition, and who looks for the root cause, rather than just medicate for symptoms. You are very wise to be taking the time to take care of yourself; it’s the one of the best things a mother can do for her family. I wish you well in your return to full health; you’re doing all the right things!
Jeannie, I can’t thank you enough for your heartfelt support and kind words. Your comment made me a little teary-eyed! Haha. That’s so wonderful you’ve found so many recipes you and your family enjoy….it’s why I do this and means so much to hear that. Also, thanks for your support with my health discussion. :)
I usually don’t leave comments and I’m sure you’ve had hundreds of book/ vitamin/doctor recommendations, but the book Medical Medium by Anthony William has been a lifesaver for me. (I’ve had chronic fatigue and weight gain among other things) He covers a lot of issues including adrenal issues and thyroid issues. If you are looking for more answers, I really think he can help! In any event, I wish you vibrant health and well-being! ?✨
Hey Karen, thank you so much for the book reco…a couple other readers actually mentioned this series (I think it’s a series of books?) with rave reviews! I have it on my list to check out…can’t wait. Sending you positive vibes!
Hi Angela, I also highly recommend the Medical Medium. Maybe start with his 3rd book Thyroid healing. It just may speak to you in a way that no other doctor or book can. Thank you for sharing this part of your life with us. There are so many going through the same issues. Marci
Hi Marci, Thank you! I’ve had this book recommended to me a few times…it’s definitely on my list to check out. Thanks again
I’d love it if you’d create some Medical Medium friendly recipes!
I have been feeling exhausted for years too & have been addicted to coffee first thing every morning and then in the afternoon I’d have a cup too but a few months ago I quit drinking coffee & switched to black tea & matcha. So far I have lost 10 pounds & my skin is looking way healthier BUT my mood is lower for sure. Pros & cons. I also find that when I drink coffee vs. Matcha, my throat kind of hurts all day and there is no way to get rid of the coffee breath & taste in my mouth. Seems like it’s just so acidic for the body & gut.
What are your thoughts on coffee? Has your naturopath advised you to quit coffee or just cut back?
Thanks!! Appreciate your opinion ??
Finding the perfect tea or coffee that you love and also doesn’t make you crash can be so tricky to do! I actually cut out caffeinated drinks 4 months ago, only introducing green tea very recently (boy, do I love that boost!). My naturopath didn’t tell me to cut it out as I wasn’t seeing one at the time, but I just stuck with it because I was worried that since caffeine is high in histamines it would make my allergic reactions worse. So I cut it out…mind you I still had one very light decaf coffee in the morning which still probably had a very small amount in it! Caffeine can also be hard on the adrenals so I think it was the right decision for me, especially seeing my recent test results. I won’t be cutting out caffeinated coffee forever though, but when I do bring it back it probably won’t be every day and I’ll rotate it with green tea and herbal teas. I hope you find the right balance for you…it’s not easy to do! :) Especially in the fall and winter…haha.
Wow Angela I’m sorry you have been feeling this way! I completely understand, I could have written that post myself, thyroid problems, cortisol levels low, hormones out of control… Diagnosis of adrenal fatigue caused by years of undiagnosed celiac disease and stress. I had no choice but to slow down in a major way. I went from being a high powered individual to one who just wanted to sleep 14+ hours a day! And with two kids to look after. It’s such a common story especially for type A personalities.
It’s been 4 years since my diagnosis and I’m improving steadily but it takes time, good nutrition (staying away from trigger foods because the adrenal problems heighten allergies, even now years later), minimising STRESS as much as possible (so so important!) and in my case, taking a bio identical progesterone supplement to balance out the hormones. Which I’m still taking ?
Wishing you all the best in your recovery!!
Hey Jessica, thank you so much for sharing your story! I’m sorry you’ve had to go through all of this, but it’s comforting in a weird way knowing how common it is. I said to Eric that I had no idea hormonal imbalances were so common postpartum…no one told me to look out for it. I’m so glad that you were able to get help! And I agree that the adrenal issue seems to be one that we’ll always have to stay on top of.
Thank you for sharing your raw & authentic health journey! It’s fascinating to read & great news that you’re onto recovery! Would you mind sharing how you eventually had your symptoms recognised & diagnosed as hormonal imbalances? Is there a blood test? Thank you, you’re an inspiration xoxox
Hi Lara, Thank you so much! As for testing, I had a blood work thyroid panel and also saliva hormone testing to evaluate things like progesterone, estradiol, cortisol, etc. I hope this helps!
Love, love the recipe! Can I ask you, which test did your doctor make you do to know your hormones level like that?
Thanks xx
Hi Camille, I don’t have the name of the test on hand, but it was saliva hormone testing done first thing in the morning and at a certain time of my cycle. :) I hope this helps!
Take care Angela. None of us have minds or bodies functioning at 100 per cent. For me, it was about accepting and embracing my need for medication to address mental health challenges at the root of everything. I take the bare minimum, but it makes a world of difference in my life. Also hard to admit this widely. Leigh Anthony
Thank you Leigh! I’m so glad you’ve found a system that works for you…and you’re so right that we often need to embrace & accept various methods of treatment.
I’ve recently finally discovered that I have very very low T3. It’s been so hard to get answers because the TSH which would be high in 95% of people with thyroid issues due to hashimotos is not effected for whatever is going on with me. I’m still trying to figure out how to address this with my Dr which so far is very much still in the trial and error phase. I’ll be interested to hear how your journey progresses.
Hi Sarah, I’m sorry to hear about your T3 results, and even more frustrating that it’s adding to the confusion over treatment. I hope you find some answers soon!
Please can you provide the details of the naturopath that you have used as I would like to have a similar assessment and as you say it is hard to find someone recommended that has given you such a productive outcome. Thank you
Hi Emma, I’m seeing Dr. Sarah White at Bronte Wellness Boutique. She’s been so helpful for me…so grateful I found her. :)
Hi Angela,
I read a great book called A Mind of Your Own by Dr. Kelly Brogan. In it, she addresses many of the physical symptoms you’ve experienced and talks about how they can masquerade as psychological symptoms. She is a medical doctor who has now taken a more natural approach after healing her own postpartum Hashimoto’s diagnosis. I’ve applied many of her suggestions with great success. Wishing you all the best with your recovery.
Hey Kelly, thanks so much for your kind wishes and for sharing the book recommendation! It sounds really interesting…I’ll make a note to check it out!