While adrenal gland disorders are rare, physicians and alternative health practitioners have begun to focus on a condition known as adrenal weakness or adrenal fatigue. Adrenal weakness is not a validated medical diagnosis; however, it is theorized to develop in response to chronic stress that reduces adrenal function. Stress-modification practices, diet and nutrition may play a significant role in relieving adrenal weakness and associated symptoms.
Adrenal Health
The adrenal glands are two small organs that cover the top of your kidneys, and they are responsible for the production of cortisol and adrenaline. Cortisol and adrenaline are commonly described as "stress" hormones, because during times of heightened anxiety or perceived danger, your body releases greater quantities into the bloodstream. While stress hormones play a vital role in survival, chronic high levels can negatively affect your health and contribute to elevated blood pressure and increased risk for heart attack and stroke.
Adrenal Weakness
Proponents of adrenal weakness theory, such as Drs. Michael Lam and James Wilson, maintain that chronic over-exposure to stress hormones not only contributes to health problems, but also leads to impaired adrenal function. Symptoms of adrenal weakness are broad, and may include unexplained weight gain, reduced libido, lack of energy and motivation, back pain, food cravings and increased perceived stress.
Adrenal Weakness Diet
According to Dr. Michael Lam, diet plays a central role in supporting adrenal health and treating adrenal disorders. He recommends that individuals experiencing adrenal weakness follow a nutritional plan that emphasizes protein balance and avoids fluctuations in blood sugar levels. Dr. Lam advises that at each meal you consume a protein, such as eggs, fish, or poultry, and that you eat small but frequent meals throughout the day in order to support energy levels. Dr. James Wilson recommends consuming six to eight servings of vegetables every day, with a particular emphasis on brightly colored varieties. Vegetables provide a low-calorie source of essential vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, and can help provide a steady source of energy without the potential blood-sugar fluctuations caused by fruits and starches. Seasoning your food with sea salt can support the health of your kidneys and in turn facilitate adrenal function.
Foods to Avoid with Adrenal Weakness
In treating adrenal weakness, what you eliminate from your diet is equally important as what you include. Dr. Michael Lam strongly advises that you avoid fruit juices and refrain from consuming whole fruits in the morning because he maintains that the high sugar content causes sharp spikes in energy. He urges the complete elimination of caffeine, chocolate, alcohol and sweeteners from your diet, and additionally recommends that you avoid processed white flour, such as that found in bread, pastries and baked goods.
Caution
Focusing on adrenal weakness may result in ignoring other health conditions that contribute to symptoms of fatigue, weakness and altered mood. If you suspect that you have an adrenal disorder or are experiencing prolonged symptoms of lethargy or depression, consult your doctor to discuss possible diagnoses and options for care.
