If you are tired, lethargic and fatigued, despite getting enough sleep each night, you may suffer from adrenal fatigue. Adrenal fatigue is believed by some health care professionals to be a condition in which your adrenal glands have become exhausted due to overuse. This can be caused by a number of factors, including too much stress. Remedies that can help to alleviate this condition include the supplementation of certain nutrients and vitamins in your diet. Adrenal fatigue is not recognized as a medical condition, so be sure to consult with your doctor or health care professional to rule out other conditions, and before consuming any vitamin or mineral supplements.
Adrenal Glands
The adrenal glands are located on top of the kidneys. The adrenal gland is responsible for the release of adrenaline during times of stress, such as physical exertion, danger or mental pressure.
Adrenal Fatigue
Adrenal fatigue is the theory that over time, the adrenal glands can be overused, producing too much adrenaline and essentially fail to function. This condition can manifest itself in many ways. According to Dr. Lawrence Wilson, adrenal fatigue or burnout is characterized by weakness, fatigue, low blood pressure, changes in skin color, dehydration, anorexia, nausea, decreased cold tolerance and dizziness. Adrenal fatigue can also cause a drop in the body's nutrient level. This occurs when the metabolism speeds up in response to stress, causing more nutrients to be used than normally. A healthy diet and supplement intake are the best remedies for this. 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."
Vitamins and Supplements
There are a variety of supplements and vitamins that can be taken to combat adrenal fatigue. Valerie Balandra, ARNP, recommends taking vitamin B-complex. B-complex contains vitamin B6, niacin and other B vitamins which are essential for proper enzymatic and adrenal function. Taking vitamin C, too, helps produce adrenal steroid hormones and aids in adrenal function. Take L-theanine supplements, an amino acid found in green tea, as this has a calming effect on the body which is necessary to properly heal the adrenal glands. Other mineral and vitamin supplements are also recommended, such as licorice, magnesium, pregnenolone and Siberian ginseng. Discuss any supplements with a doctor before taking.
Foods
Eating right is also important for healing adrenal fatigue. Eat meals consisting of fat, protein and complex carbohydrates. Complex carbohydrates are foods such as whole-grain breads, brown rice and oatmeal. This combination helps provide a steady stream of energy throughout the day, says Dr. James Wilson. Avoid stimulants as these cause a reaction from the adrenal glands. Stimulants include refined sugar, coffee, energy drinks and simple carbohydrates such as white rice and white bread. Try to eat as many vegetables as possible.
Other Remedies
Valerie Balandra recommends a few other activities to help overcome adrenal fatigue. Relaxing, exercising, getting extra sleep, minimizing stress, eating regular meals and doing something fun each day can help to alleviate the pressure placed on the adrenal glands.
