Adrenal fatigue is becoming known as a 21st-century phenomenon. Dr. James Wilson, author of "Adrenal Fatigue," believes that repeated stress, no matter what the cause, increases the likelihood that you will suffer from adrenal fatigue. The good news is that there are natural things you can do, including diet, supplements and lifestyle changes, that can help you make a complete recovery from adrenal problems.
Adrenals
The adrenals, two small crescent-shaped glands perched on top of the kidneys, are part of the endocrine system. The inner part, the medulla, produces epinephrine and norepinephrine, the so-called "fight or flight" hormones. The cortex produces the steroid hormones cortisone, hydrocortisone, testosterone, estrogen, 17-hydroxy-ketosteroids, DHEA, pregnenolone, aldosterone, androstenedione, progesterone and some others. These hormones are important in stress reactions.
Symptoms of Weak Adrenals
When adrenal function is weak, you may have the following symptoms: dizziness, weakness, lethargy, headaches, memory problems, food cravings, allergies and blood sugar disorders. Extreme underactivity may lead to Addison's disease, a rare disorder that includes fatigue, loss of appetite, low blood pressure, nausea, depression, a craving for salty foods and an inability to cope with stress. Cushing's syndrome is another rare disorder caused by excessive cortisol production. People with Cushing's are heavy in the abdomen and buttocks, with thin limbs and round, "moon" faces.
To test your adrenals, take your blood pressure lying down and standing up. If the blood pressure is lower after resting lying down for five minutes, then standing up, you can suspect weak adrenal function and may want to consult further with your physician.
Foods That Support the Adrenals
"The Prescription for Natural Healing" recommends the following foods to support the adrenal glands. Deep-water ocean fish, salmon or tuna should be eaten three times a week for the omega-3 fatty acids. Eat plenty of antioxidants in the form of fresh fruits and vegetables, especially green leafy ones. Brown rice, brewer's yeast, nuts, legumes, olive and safflower oils, seeds and wheat germ are all helpful. Garlic, onions, shiitake mushrooms and pearl barley contain germanium, a powerful immune stimulant.
Supplements
Life Extension recommends these supplements for the adrenals: licorice, which reduces the amount of hydrocortisone broken down by the liver; pantothenic acid; vitamin B5, which activates the adrenals and helps with the production of acetylcholine; and L-theanine, a calming amino acid found in green tea. In addition, DHEA protects against too much cortisol from the adrenal glands; vitamin C has an anti-inflammatory effect; phosphatidylserine improves mood and lowers the release of cortisol in response to physical stress; and melatonin regulates circadian rhythm and induces sleep.
Other Recommendations
Avoid fats, fried foods, pork, red meats, sugary sodas and white flour because they put additional stress on the adrenals. Engaging in regular, moderate exercise stimulates the adrenals and helps decrease stress. Avoid stress as much as possible. Prolonged stress from job problems, a troubled marriage, or loneliness can take a toll on the adrenals.
Dr. James Wilson, author of "Adrenal Fatigue," firmly believes that most people with adrenal weakness and fatigue can feel better again by adjusting their diet and lifestyle, taking supplements and learning how to modulate stress in their lives.
References
- "Prescription for Natural Healing"; Phylis A. Balch, CNC and James F. Balch, MD; 2000
- Adrenalfatigue.org: Frequently Asked Questions
