Adrenal insufficiency is a condition in which the adrenal glands are unable to produce a normal amount of hormones. Fatigue, nausea and inability to deal with stress are just some of the symptoms of this condition. While occasionally this can be a dangerous condition which requires serious medical attention, it can sometimes be managed with effective stress management, a healthy lifestyle and most importantly a good diet.
Diet
Eating a healthy diet is conducive to managing and sometimes treating adrenal insufficiency. In order to effectively manage this condition a diet should include some whole grains, lots of protein and some oils at every meal. The best types of proteins include nuts and seeds while high-quality olive, walnut, flax and fish oil are recommended. There should also be a heavy emphasis placed on vegetables as they are a good source of fiber and vitamins.
Nutritional Supplements
In addition to a healthy diet, nutritional supplements that reduce stress and increase adrenal activity can also be beneficial. Vitamins A, C and E, pantothenic acid, manganese and zinc are essential for supporting proper adrenal gland function. Magnesium citrate and vitamin B complexes, especially B-6 and niacin in the form of inositol hexaniacinate, are also great supplements for maintaining overall health and managing the symptoms of adrenal insufficiency.
Salts
Low blood pressure and cravings for salt are also symptoms of adrenal insufficiency. Because of this it may be beneficial for patients to increase the amount of salt and electrolytes in their diet. Sea salt, or Celtic salt, is preferable to traditional table salt. Trace minerals (zinc, manganese, selenium, chromium, molybdenum, copper and iodine) in the liquid form not only maintain the electrolyte balance but also seem to have the added benefit of having a calming effect.
Hydrate
Water is necessary for all bodily functions, thus a big part of a healthy diet is staying properly hydrated. If a patient increases their salt intake without drinking enough water they run the risk of dehydration. Furthermore, part of managing adrenal insufficiency is regulating a patient's digestive system. Staying hydrated is an easy way to do this as it can "enhance overall metabolism, eliminate toxic metals and enhance absorption and digestion of food."
Foods to Avoid
A patient with adrenal insufficiency cannot handle as many carbohydrates as the average person. Because of this only small amounts of unrefined carbohydrates should be consumed and white or refined carbohydrates should be avoided all together. Foods and drinks with caffeine, such as chocolate or coffee, should also be avoided as they are hard on the digestive system. Foods with hydrogenated fats, as a general rule, should also be avoided.
