The adrenal glands are two small endocrine glands located above the kidneys that are largely involved in hormone production. Although many Western doctors are reluctant to diagnose conditions of adrenal fatigue, due to insufficient research, alternative medicine practitioners and naturopaths frequently link the condition to certain lifestyle choices, such as caffeine consumption. For best results, keep your daily intake of caffeine below the 200 to 300 milligrams recommended for healthy adults.
Caffeine and the Body
According to the Mayo Clinic, heavy caffeine use can cause a variety of negative symptoms, including: irritability, muscle tremors, insomnia, nervousness and restlessness. Although most individuals experience an immediate sensation of alertness and wakefulness after drinking caffeine, long-term consumption can create symptoms of withdrawal and fatigue caused by caffeine addiction. If you feel like you need increasing amounts of caffeine to achieve a feeling of alertness, your adrenal glands may be experiencing fatigue.
The Adrenal Response
While most people are aware of caffeine's effects as a psychoactive stimulant, not everyone is familiar with the reactions your body has to a cup of coffee or tea. The Women to Women website compares the body's response to caffeine to the natural "fight or flight" response to stress. In other words, as you begin to consume a caffeinated product, your pituitary and adrenal glands begin circulating stress hormones such as cortisol, norepinephrine and epinephrine, also known as adrenaline. These stress hormones create a perceived threat response in the body, dilating your pupils and increasing your heart rate.
Adrenal Fatigue
Proponents of the adrenal fatigue theory believe that your adrenal glands gradually become deficient due to the constant and unnatural stimulation of caffeine and other substances. Lawrence Wilson of the Center for Development website considers adrenal burnout syndrome a mild version of Addison's disease, resulting in underactivity and diminished function of the adrenal glands. Although no clinical studies have been performed on adrenal fatigue conditions, many alternative-medicine doctors recommend natural treatments such as diet modifications, reduced caffeine intake, regulated sleep patterns and herbal remedies.
Safety Concerns
Always talk with your doctor before undergoing an alternative treatment plan to reduce the risk of interfering with medications or treatments you may be taking. If you currently consume high quantities of caffeine, try curbing your intake by switching highly caffeinated beverages for decaffeined alternatives.
