If you want to improve your adrenal gland function take a look at your diet. Adrenal glands can be worn down by consistently stressful situations and, as a result, can malfunction in their release of proper hormones throughout the body. This is known as adrenal fatigue or burn out. Eating a specific diet, however, can help to restore the adrenal glands to optimal health.
Adrenal Glands
The adrenal glands are endocrine glands that are located on top of the kidneys. These glands are responsible for releasing adrenaline during periods of extreme physical activity or in fearful or stressful situations. These glands are also responsible for controlling the levels of certain hormones in the body such as cortisol and testosterone.
Adrenaline Fatigue
The adrenal fatigue theory asserts that too much stress on the adrenal glands will eventually cause them to burn out causing the body to produce fewer amounts of certain hormones such as cortisol. Although these theories are not medically recognized, they are accepted by numerous conventional medical practitioners such as Dr. L. Wilson and Dr. James Wilson. Despite the lack of evidence, Dr. L. Wilson asserts that "doctors are well aware that most other glands such as the thyroid, pancreas, pituitary, ovaries, and testes can have many degrees of dysfunctions. Why should the same not be true of the adrenal glands?" Proponents of the adrenal fatigue theory recommend dietary changes to counteract the adverse effects of adrenal malfunction. According to Dr. James Wilson, "with adrenal fatigue, the cells have used up much of the body's stored nutrients, creating a nutritional void. Good quality food is the best source for replenishing these nutrients."
Foods to Eat
Wilson recommends eating high-quality protein such as poultry, red meat, fish, legumes, nuts, seeds and soy as these are nutrient-dense foods. Vegetables are an important food to increase adrenal function especially brightly colored vegetables. While fruits are a highly nutrient-rich food type, they are also high in fructose. A high sugar intake is not recommended for sufferers of adrenal fatigue, as sugar acts as a stimulant and can cause an adrenal response. Unless you suffer from high blood pressure, adding a little more salt to your diet can help adrenal fatigue as salt contains many nutrients.
Foods to Avoid
Avoiding certain foods is paramount to overcoming adrenal fatigue. Refined sugar and white flour are the type of foods that adrenal fatigue sufferers usually crave the most, according to Wilson. Try to avoid these foods as they raise your blood sugar levels, cause a rise in insulin, and can cause an adrenal response to the sudden increase in sugar. Avoid hydrogenated oils and fried foods because they disrupt metabolic function, form free radicals and can cause tissue damage throughout the body.
Drinks
All forms of herbal tea are considered good for the adrenal glands as well as carob, vegetable juice and plain water. Avoid any type of stimulating drinks. This includes caffeine, chocolate, energy drinks and alcohol.
Symptoms
According to Dr. Lawrence Wilson, symptoms of adrenal fatigue or exhaustion are a general sense of fatigue or tiredness, even if you sleep well. Cravings for coffee and candy are also common symptoms as well as lower back pain, depression and a desire to eat sweet and salty foods.
