The adrenal glands produce several vital hormones including cortisol -- which controls inflammation and is involved in wound healing and the allergic response -- and epinephrine and norepinephrine, which control metabolism and are involved in the stress response. Certain nutrients are known to support healthy adrenal function. What's more, poor nutrition can considerably weaken adrenal performance. Nutrition should only be used, however, as an adjunct to proper medical treatment for any adrenal weakness or dysfunction. Always seek a doctor's care if experiencing any symptoms of exhaustion, fatigue, or low blood pressure, blood sugar or body temperature.
Liver & Fish
According to Dr. James F. Balch in his book "Prescription for Nutritional Healing" the adrenal glands will not function properly without an adequate supply of pantothenic acid, or vitamin B5. In fact, a deficiency of vitamin B5 could cause the adrenals to atrophy. The rest of the vitamin B complex are also vital for proper adrenal performance. Liver is one of the richest dietary sources of vitamin B5 and all of the B vitamins, as well as of iron and certain enzymes also found beneficial in supporting adrenal health. Fish, and particularly deep-water ocean fish such as tuna and salmon, are also rich sources of these nutrients that Balch recommends eating at least three times per week to maintain healthy adrenal function.
Fruits and Vegetables
Also essential for proper adrenal function is sufficient vitamin C and bioflavonoids, both of which are contained in large proportions in citrus fruits like grapefruits, oranges, limes and lemons. Most vegetables, especially leafy, green ones, also provide adrenal support, containing several vitamins and minerals like calcium and magnesium known to benefit the adrenals and the whole glandular system. Legumes, including beans and peas, as well as nuts and seeds also support adrenal health.
Potassium Rich, Low-Sodium Foods
The adrenal glands produce a hormone called aldosterone that, along with the kidneys, regulate the body's potassium-sodium balance. Nutritional support for the adrenals includes foods that are high in potassium and low in sodium. Foods highest in potassium include the seaweeds dulse and kelp, although they are also high in sodium. More balanced alternatives include sunflower seeds, wheat germ, almonds, raisins, peanuts, dates, figs, avocados, yams and Swiss chard.
Thyroid Nutrition
Thyroid function is closely tied in with adrenal function, and nutritional support for the thyroid can indirectly benefit the adrenals as well. Foods that support the thyroid and may therefore support the adrenals as a consequence include brewer's yeast, high in the full B complex of vitamins, and unsaturated fatty acids, such as can be found in nuts, seeds and fish oils.
References
- "Prescription For Nutritional Healing"; James F. Balch, et al.; 1990
- "Alive": Avoiding Adrenal Exhaustion; Carolyn DeMarco; Mar 2003
- Natural Ways: "Adrenal Weakness"
