Nutrition for Adrenal Fatigue Syndrome

Nutrition for Adrenal Fatigue Syndrome
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Adrenal fatigue syndrome refers to a collective group of symptoms such as body aches, fatigue, nervousness, sleep disruptions and digestive issues. This term is not an accepted medical diagnosis, according to MayoClinic.com. Your adrenal glands are essential for producing hormones your body needs to be healthy. Adrenal insufficiency, also referred to as Addison's disease, occurs when one or more of these hormones isn't produced in adequate amounts. This can present as unintentional weight loss, body aches, fatigue, lightheadedness, low blood and low blood pressure. Your doctor can diagnose adrenal insufficiency by blood tests and other stimulation tests that can show your hormone levels. According to MayoClinic.com, people who support adrenal fatigue syndrome as a real diagnosis believe this is a form of adrenal insufficiency that is due to chronic stress. A nutrient-rich, balanced diet may help relieve and control symptoms.

Whole Grains

Choosing whole grains when you experience adrenal fatigue symptoms may help you build a healthy body. According to Womentowomen.com, refined grains such as cookies, cakes, white bread, and white pasta contain processed flour and sugar and lead to an energy surge in your body. This increase in energy can then be followed by a dip in energy, causing you to feel increased fatigue and weakness. Whole grains are a better choice to increase and maintain your energy and fight the fatigue that accompanies adrenal insufficiency. Whole grains contain fiber, a component of food that can slow the influx of sugar and nutrients into your bloodstream. Therefore, you get a steady supply of energy and avoid energy surges and dips. However, you may need to be careful about what types of whole grains you choose. According to womentowomen.com, many people with adrenal problems may have an allergy to gluten, a protein found in grains such as wheat, oats, rye, and barley. Consult your doctor to be tested for this allergy. Good whole-grain choices that are gluten-free include brown rice, quinoa and buckwheat.

Protein

According to Dr.Lam.com, consuming high-quality protein is important if you experience adrenal fatigue. Protein is important for the formation, repair and maintenance of healthy muscle tissue in your body. Therefore, it can provide you with energy and you can avoid the weakness and fatigue characteristic of adrenal fatigue. In addition, protein can be satiating and supply you with a steady supply of energy so that you avoid energy dips that lead to increased fatigue and energy loss. Quality protein sources include chicken, turkey, eggs and fish. You can also get some protein from beans, legumes, and nuts.

Beverages

According to Dr.Lam.com, drinking caffeine in coffee or tea may lead to symptoms of adrenal fatigue. These beverages can cause your blood sugar to drop quickly; this can lead to a rapid decrease in energy to perform daily functions. Other beverages that may have the same effect include those with sugar, such as colas and chocolates. Alternative forms of liquid include water and natural fruit juices.

Foods Rich In Magnesium

According to womentowomen.com, magnesium is an important mineral if you experience adrenal fatigue symptoms. Magnesium provides energy for your adrenals to function properly, so consuming magnesium-rich foods may help you. Good dietary choices include legumes, whole grains, nuts and vegetables.

References

Article reviewed by Anton Alden Last updated on: Mar 2, 2011

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