When the adrenal glands start to burn out after a period of excessive demand, a range of symptoms can result. A discussion of the function of these walnut-size organs can help you understand the array of symptoms in adrenal fatigue and the dietary changes required as part of an effective treatment plan.
Adrenal Glands
Triangular shaped glands that sit atop each kidney, the adrenals maintain an incredibly varied role in the human body that belies their small size. The adrenal medulla produces adrenaline, a peptide hormone that increases heart rate and alertness, while the adrenal cortex takes responsibility for making cortisol. The tasks allocated to this steroid hormone include reduction of inflammation, regulation of sleep-wake cycles and boosting of blood sugar levels between meals.
Adrenal Fatigue
Dr. James Wilson, a physician and the author of "Adrenal Fatigue: 21st Century Stress Syndrome," explains that the adrenal cortex begins to fail in most patients with the condition. This results in a low level of cortisol. Although this has a major impact on a number of factors, such as energy levels and sleeping patterns, the doctor highlights the blood sugar dips that become likely in such cases. These dips, also called hypoglycemia, can result in dizziness, shaking and disorientation.
Blood Sugar Levels
Because cortisol levels linger at such a low level in adrenal fatigue sufferers, dips in blood sugar regularly occur unless dietary measures are taken to address this. Dr. Michael Lam, a practitioner familiar with the condition, says that regular small meals throughout the day remain the only practical method of balancing blood sugar levels.
Protein and Fats
Lam recommends that those with adrenal fatigue base their meals around proteins and fats. These types of nutrients, found in meats, fish, eggs and nuts, release their energy slowly into the bloodstream. They also slow down the release of carbohydrates, helping to maintain stable levels of glucose in the bloodstream.
Slow-Release Carbohydrates
Dr. Wilson suggests that adrenal fatigue patients avoid sugars and instead choose slow-release carbohydrates. Such choices include whole grain products and vegetables. Wilson said these foods help prevent excessive release of insulin, a pancreatic hormone that would otherwise cause the blood sugar to crash and bring about the symptoms of hypoglycemia.
References
- "Adrenal Fatigue: 21st Century Stress Syndrome"; Dr James Wilson; 2002.
- Dr Lam: Adrenal Fatigue
