Those suffering from a high adrenal load can be challenged by some of the foods they crave the most. Frequent dips in blood sugar levels, and the furious sugar cravings that follow, stand out as a common symptom when the adrenal glands are strained or exhausted. Unfortunately, indulging these sweet cravings can cause insulin spikes that only perpetuate this blood sugar level roller coaster and actually increases adrenal load. A diet that balances serum glucose levels takes removes a major stress load from the adrenal glands.
Slow-Release Carbohydrates
The adrenal glands serve the body in many ways and one of their functions includes the release of adrenaline and cortisol to boost blood sugar levels. The more occasions your blood sugar levels drops quickly means that these walnut-sized organs must work harder. Placing more work on already-overburden adrenal glands can result in exhaustion states, including adrenal fatigue. Consuming slow-release carbohydrates, such as wholegrains and vegetables, can help stabilize your blood sugar levels and avoid creating an additional load on the adrenal glands. Dr James Wilson, author of "Adrenal Fatigue: The 21st Century Stress Syndrome", suggests combining carbohydrates, fat and protein at every meal to provide a steady stream of energy.
Salt
Although it becomes especially important to avoid sugar to protect the adrenal glands, it may actually benefit some individuals to ignore the official warnings regarding salt intake. The adrenal cortex normally produces a hormone called aldosterone, which preserves sodium and regulates blood pressure, but secretions may slump following periods of sustained stress. This may be seen in cases of adrenal fatigue. If an individual notices a drop in blood pressure or often gets light-headed from standing, the person may benefit from adding more salt to foods. Experts including Wilson recommend using sea salt as it contains a full complement of trace minerals alongside the sodium.
Easy-to-Digest Protein
Almost every person suffering from a high stress load notices disturbance in the digestive function. The major stress hormones, adrenaline and cortisol, play an important role in regulating many aspects of the digestive function. Robert Kapolsky, author of "Why Zebras Don't Get Ulcers," explains how the secretion of stress hormones, such as cortisol, can interrupt peristalsis, alter intestinal bacteria and even cause diarrhoea. Reducing the load on your digestive organs therefore becomes more important than ever; easy-to-digest protein, such as fish, eggs and organ meats, present less of a challenge and may help nourish the body during episodes of sustained stress.
References
- Dr. James Wilson's Adrenal: Diet for Adrenal Fatigue
- Revolutionhealth: How Stress Impacts Digestion
- "Why Zebras Don't Get Ulcers"; Dr. Robert Kapolsky; 1998
