Adrenal fatigue can occur following a long period of excessive stress which, as noted by Dr. James Wilson, can be a result of psychological stress, over-exuberant exercise, poor sleeping or chronic infection. Parts of the adrenal glands begin to falter as a result, causing an array of symptoms. Particular nutrients, namely pantothenic acid, can help restore adrenal function for many sufferers.
Adrenal Fatigue
After a period of weeks or months of excessive strain, the adrenal cortex can begin to under-secrete cortisol. In his book "Adrenal Fatigue: 21st Century Stress Syndrome," Dr Wilson explains that this steroid represents the body's main stress hormone and plays a role in blood sugar level balance, immune system reactions, sleep-wake cycles together with general energy and well-being. This can account for the wide range of symptoms typically experienced by an individual suffering from adrenal fatigue.
Pantothenic Acid
Pantothenic acid exists in food as a member of the B vitamins and plays an important role in the Krebs cycle, a symphony of chemical reactions that helps to release energy in the body. However, as Dr Michael Lam points out, it also supports the production of steroid hormones at the adrenal glands. The U.S. practitioner, who has worked with a large number of adrenal fatigue patients, explains that the vitamin converts into a substance called acetyl co-enzyme A, a precursor to cholesterol, from which cortisol and other adrenal hormones are manufactured.
Cortisol Production
Dr Wilson explains that during times of sustained stress, the body's reserves of cholesterol-based hormones can become depleted. At these times, providing additional amounts of pantothenic acid may have a very measurable effect on cortisol production, and therefore the symptoms found in the individual. However, often the supply of steroid hormones to the adrenal glands remains healthy with the problem occurring purely in specific tissues responsible for cortisol production. This explains why pantothenic acid production can help in some cases and not in others.
Expert Insight
Dr Lam believes that therapy for adrenal fatigue should revolve around reducing the stress placed upon the adrenal glands and increased nutritional support. He explains that different individuals will require a different amount of each nutrient, but points to panthothenic acid and vitamin C as important compounds in supporting the function of the organ. He also explains that some individuals may benefit from licorice root and adrenal extracts to help fortify the production of cortisol, but others may react badly to these interventions.
References
- "Adrenal Fatigue: 21st Century Stress Syndrome"; Dr James Wilson; 2002.
- Dr Lam: Adrenal Fatigue
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