Adrenal Supplements & Fatigue

If you suffer from adrenal fatigue, you are no doubt tired of being so tired. Energy levels and mood disturbances represent just a couple of problems related to adrenal fatigue, as the adrenals can affect many different aspects of the body. Satisfying their nutritional requirements during this time remains an important part of treatment, and particular supplements show promise in doing so. Note that you should always consult a knowledgeable physician before taking herbal supplements.

Adrenal Fatigue

Dr. James Wilson, the author of a book on adrenal fatigue, describes the condition as "The 21st Century Stress Syndrome" He explains that, if placed under excessive stress for too long, the tissues responsible for hormonal production in the adrenal cortex may begin to fail, resulting in reduced production of cortisol. Cortisol, a steroid hormone, plays a major role in a number of body systems; it boosts blood sugar levels between meals, provides anti-inflammatory action and controls energy levels throughout the day. A drop in hormone production results in energy "crashes."

Nutritional requirements

The adrenal glands' extensive nutritional requirements include minerals such as magnesium, zinc and iodine and an aray of B vitamins, but Dr. Wilson sees vitamin B-5 and vitamin C as the two most important essential nutrients. Vitamin B-5, also known as pantothenic acid, acts as a precursor for a compound called acetyl co-enzyme A, a necessary co-factor in the production of all steroid hormones. Vitamin C facilitates the production of cortisol, and Dr. Wilson notes that serum levels of vitamin C were once used to gauge adrenal function.

Licorice

Licorice root stands out as a particularly useful herb in adrenal fatigue, and has many effects beyond being used in confectionary and sweets. Adrenal Fatigue Focus explains that the root of the plant is featured in many traditional Chinese medicine remedies and that modern science has also recognised its ability to increase the potency of cortisol in the bloodstream, an especially relevant effect when cortisol output remains low. Licorice does this because it contains glycerrhizinic acid, which inhibits the breakdown of cortisol at the liver. People with hypertension should be cautious about using licorice because in high doses, it may increase blood pressure.

Adaptogenic herbs

Herbalists class plants as adaptogenic if they demonstrate an ability to normalize the function of glands or organ systems. Several herbs have shown adaptogenic properties in their modulation of adrenal hormones, lowering them when high and providing a boost when the opposite is true. A 1999 research paper by Rage et al studied the evidence for the effect of these adaptogens, including ashwaganda and siberian ginseng, and found that they had a measurable effect on normalizing the output of adrenal hormones.

Expert Insight

Dr. Michael Lam warns against the use of many herbs in the treatment of severe adrenal fatigue. While Dr. Lam, certified by the American Board of Anti-Aging Medicine and a specialist in nutritional medicine, says these supplements can provide a beneficial effect in the earlier stages of the condition, he warns that both licorice root and adaptogenic herbs such as ginseng will stimulate the functions of the adrenal gland; if the organ is not yet ready for this, a "crash" may occur. Instead, Dr. Lam recommends using a combination of vitamin C and vitamin B-5 to help to nourish the glands and rebuild them at a steady pace.