Addison's disease is a deficiency or lack of adrenal cortex hormones, or the hormones that are produced by the outer portion of your adrenal glands -- triangular-shaped glands that are on top of your kidneys. The National Adrenal Diseases Foundation states that Addison's disease is usually caused by an autoimmune reaction in your body that takes months to years to damage your adrenal glands. Nutritional treatments, especially supplements, may help treat your Addison's disease, but you should discuss procedures, alternatives and risks with your doctor first.
About Addison's Disease
Addison's disease, according to the National Health Service of the United Kingdom, disrupts the production of two steroid hormones: aldosterone and cortisol. Aldosterone helps regulate the amount of salt and water in your body, while cortisol, also known as the stress hormone, is released when you encounter stressful situations and is responsible for fight-or-flight feelings. Fatigue, low appetite, weight loss, nausea, diarrhea and muscle weakness are common symptoms associated with Addison's disease.
Nutritional Treatments
Nutritional supplements have long been used in treating adrenal gland disorders, including Addison's disease, although more scientific research evidence may be necessary to validate the use of these supplements for this health problem. According to Phyllis A. Balch, a certified nutritional consultant and author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," helpful nutritional supplements for this health problem may include vitamin B complex, vitamin C with bioflavonoids, coenzyme A, tyrosine, raw adrenal glandular, chlorophyll, Siberian ginseng, milk thistle extract, SAMe and ashwagandha.
Featured Nutritional Supplement
Siberian ginseng may be a helpful nutritional supplement in treating Addison's disease and other adrenal gland disorders. Naturopathic physician and expert herbalist Sharol Tilgner, author of "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth," states that Siberian ginseng possesses adaptogenic properties, which means that it may support your body -- especially your adrenal system -- through stressful events. This nutritional supplement has historically been used to help increase your endurance and concentration.
Considerations
Addison's disease is a serious health problem that requires the assistance of a licensed health provider. If you suffer from Addison's disease or other adrenal gland problems, review all relevant treatment options with your primary care provider. Your doctor can counsel you on the best nutritional supplements to take to help treat your condition, and she can tell you about the potential side effects and drug interactions that might occur, too. Always be judicious in your use of nutritional supplements.
References
- National Adrenal Diseases Foundation: Addison's Disease
- National Health Service: Addison's Disease
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, CNC; 2010
- "Herbal Medicine from the Heart of the Earth"; Sharol Tilgner, N.D.; 1999
