Whether referred to as adrenal burnout or by its more common tag adrenal fatigue, the experience remains the same for the sufferer. Low blood sugar levels, cravings for sugar and salt, concentration problems, disrupted sleep and poor energy levels plague such individuals. While tempting to use as a pick-me-up, caffeine use can worsen all of the above symptoms.
Adrenal Burnout
Adrenal burnout typically occurs after several months of sustained stressors, which may come in the form of psychological stress, excessive exercise, poor sleep or chronic infection. Dr. James Wilson, the author of "Adrenal Fatigue: 21st Century Stress Syndrome," notes how levels of cortisol normally rise in the early stages of stress, where they remain until a crash ensues. Wilson explains that falling levels of cortisol, the body's major stress hormone, can result in a wide array of symptoms.
Caffeine
Many individuals who have experienced such a crash in energy levels often find themselves reaching for caffeinated drinks to make it through the day. Dr. Michael Lam, a physician familiar with the condition, explains that this is a mistake, as the effects of these stimulants last for only a short time and result in a lower energy state later on.
Stress Load
Because of the nature of adrenal fatigue, removing the stress load from the body remains a crucial part of treatment. Dr. Wilson points out how regular consumption of teas and coffees can ensure that the adrenal glands remain overworked and cannot recover, the exact opposite of the desired outcome.
Nutrition
Instead of using stimulants, Dr. Lam suggests nourishing the adrenals with a range of specific nutrients. He highlights vitamin C, vitamin B5 and magnesium as particularly important for the health of these walnut-sized organs, and believes that increased intake of these nutrients may improve healing in the gland to restore cortisol production more efficiently.
Replacing Coffee
Dr. Wilson states how so many individuals with adrenal burnout have developed a coffee addiction as a result of the low energy state they feel each day. He explains that, as well as the physiological craving, the habit of consuming coffee often makes its elimination difficult for his patients. He suggests replacing it with chicory root tea, which he believes provides a similar texture to coffee but none of the caffeine.
References
- "Adrenal Fatigue: 21st Century Stress Syndrome"; Dr. James Wilson; 2002
- Dr. Lam: Adrenal Fatigue
