Adrenal fatigue occurs when the adrenal glands do not function at an optimal level, especially after periods of prolonged stress. The adrenal glands, located above the kidneys, produce adrenaline, cortisol, estrogen, aldosterone and testosterone. When these hormones are unbalanced, the body cannot adequately respond to stress, and symptoms of adrenal fatigue occur.
Fatigue and Exhaustion
A common symptom of adrenal fatigue is difficulty in waking up in the morning. Lethargy and lack of energy are also common symptoms. These symptoms sometimes diminish for a short period of time after eating. According to Project Aware.org, people suffering from adrenal fatigue have a distinct energy pattern. They feel fatigued in the morning and not fully awake until after 10 a.m. A lull in cortisol causes exhaustion and fatigue in the afternoon, but they feel more energized by 6 p.m. By 9 p.m., they experience another period of fatigue.
Cravings
Another symptom of adrenal fatigue is food cravings, especially foods that are high in salt and fat. Another craving is for sugary foods, which boost extra energy when lethargy and fatigue set in. Dr. Angela Agrios, a naturopathic doctor, states that eating foods with large amounts of refined sugar can stress out the adrenal glands and causes symptoms of adrenal fatigue to get worse. Eating a diet low in processed foods and eating six small meals a day can help to combat adrenal fatigue by regulating blood sugar and keeping energy levels stable.
Weight Gain
Adrenal fatigue may also make it difficult to lose weight and may cause weight gain. Higher levels of cortisol in response to stress for prolonged periods of time cause weight gain, especially around the abdomen, the Mayo Clinic states. Increased fat around the abdomen puts people at increased risk for high levels of cholesterol and heart disease.
Other Symptoms
Unregulated hormones produced by the adrenal glands reduce the ability to handle stress and causes anxiety, depression and other mood changes. Insomnia, memory problems, increased infections and thinning hair can also occur in people with adrenal fatigue.
