Adrenal fatigue stands out as a condition that hits sufferers in different ways, with each sharing the same hormonal imbalance as the basis of their malady. Low cortisol, found in all individuals experiencing the syndrome, plays an important role across many areas of the body. These undesirable fluctuations can result in poor energy, difficulty concentrating, low blood sugar levels and sugar cravings.
Adrenal Fatigue Causes
Dr. James Wilson highlights that adrenal fatigue generally follows a period of extreme stress, which could occur over the course of several months ot even years. The physician, the author of "Adrenal Fatigue: 21st Century Stress Syndrome," points out that psychological stress, lack of sleep or infection can all contribute to the stress load that the adrenal glands experience.
Low Cortisol
A steroid hormone, cortisol comes from the adrenal cortex and heavily affects the function of the human body. Dr. Robert Kapolsky points out that the body requires cortisol to resist the affects of stress but that the hormone also helps co-ordinate the sleep-wake cycle, maintain the metabolic rate and boost the blood sugar levels when required. The researcher, who wrote the best-selling book on stress "Why Zebras Don't Get Ulcers," explains that the low blood sugar levels often result in strong cravings for sugar.
Sugar Cravings
Dr. Wilson notes how, under normal circumstances, a basal release of cortisol maintains the blood sugar levels within a healthy range. This does not occur during adrenal fatigue. Sensing unwanted drops in blood sugar levels, the body produces cravings for quick energy; sugar supplies such energy.
Dietary Choices
However, Dr. Michael Lam explains that the consumption of sugars and refined carbohydrates can disturb blood sugar levels, briefly solving the problem before a wave of insulin results in further blood sugar slumps. Instead, he advises the consumption of slow release carbohydrate foods like vegetables and whole grain carbohydrates.
Expert Insight
Stabilizing the blood sugar levels eases the burden on the overworked adrenals and remains an important part of the treatment. Dr. Wilson does stress that these walnut-sized glands will generally require specific nutritional support on top of dietary change, and often uses vitamin C, vitamin B5 and adrenal extracts to help recovery.
References
- "Adrenal Fatigue: 21st Century Stress Syndrome;" Dr James Wilson; 2002
- Dr Lam: Adrenal Fatigue
- "Why Zebras Don't Get Ulcers;" Dr. Robert Kapolsky; 2002
