Adrenal fatigue is a condition whereby the body has lost or severely decreased ability to cope with stress and this can lead to breakdown of other body systems, fatigue, weakened immunity and arthritis. While adrenal fatigue is not a new or entirely modern illness, certain aspects of modern life have a causative effect. Vitamins and other nutrients are essential in the treatment of adrenal fatigue.
Stress
Mental and emotional stress tax the adrenal glands and place extra demands on them to respond to the perceived stress. The body requires nutrients and hormones to neutralize the stress effects and this leads to nutrient and hormone depletion. Altered sleep patterns and unhealthy eating habits are also typically involved in stress-related adrenal deficiency, placing an added burden on the adrenal glands by depriving them of the normal restorative function of sleep and the nutrients required to replenish cells and manufacture cortisol and adrenalin.
Environmental Toxicity
Everyday exposure to pollutants and other toxins in the environment, both outdoors and indoors, can lead to accumulations of toxins, placing excessive demands on the adrenal glands, according to the website WomenLivingNaturally.com. Chronic infections, such as mold and fungal infections or subclinical dental infections create a condition of toxicity in the body that depletes the adrenal system, as well. Dietary toxins, including caffeine and sugar, tax the adrenals and deplete nutrients. Electromagnetic frequencies from cell phones, computer screens, microwaves and other electronic devices add to the environmental toxic barrage.
Symptoms
The stress response floods the bloodstream with adrenalin and cortisol to prepare the body for physical flight or fight. Blood sugar levels are directly and heavily influenced by these adrenal hormones. Fatigue from low blood sugar or blood sugar swings is characteristic of adrenal glands that have been taxed or are in varying stages of burnout. Low levels of cortisol, which controls inflammation, lead to increased tendency to allergic reactions and muscle and joint aches and pains.
Recovery
Reversing the effects of adrenal fatigue requires time and concerted effort. In addition to eliminating the sources of stress as much as possible, dietary modifications and supplementation to replace lost nutrients is usually necessary for full recovery. Vitamin C is an important nutrient that is present in high concentrations in adrenal tissue in conjunction with copper. Copper must be obtained in its enzyme form. Mushrooms and red potatoes are food sources that contain vitamin C together with copper in an enzyme complex. Additionally, B complex vitamins are necessary for metabolism of carbohydrates and can help with the management of blood sugar when adrenals are taxed.
Other Considerations
Green foods such as wheat grass juice and barley grass help with detoxification while providing high nutrient density to restore lost vitamins and minerals, according to WomenLivingNaturally.com. Sufficient protein is important for the repair of cells and tissues in the adrenals and in parts of the body affected by the adrenal fatigue such as muscles and joints. Protein supplement powders are convenient to ensure a steady protein supply at each meal.
