Adrenergic Symptoms And Low Carbs

Low-carb diets limit the intake of carbohydrates but may allow an unlimited consumption of fat and protein. Observing a low-carb diet can have a positive effect on stress and anxiety, reducing adrenergic symptoms such as heart palpitations, excessive sweating, muscle tension and lethargy. Low-carb diets taken to the extreme, however, can have the opposite effect on the adrenergic system, causing symptoms of stress and anxiety.

Low-Carb Diets

One of the most popular low-carb diets is the Atkins diet. During the induction phase, it restricts carbohydrates to 20 g a day. During later phases, followers consume 100 g of carbohydrates daily. As the bloodstream absorbs protein and fat components at a slower rate than glucose, a component of carbohydrates, restricting carbohydrates can reduce appetite and limit the daily intake of calories, which can lead to weight loss.

Adrenergic Symptoms

Stress hormones are a natural response to danger and an important part of the body's fight-or-flight mechanism. Stress hormones are secreted into the bloodstream when the brain senses a threat in the internal or external environment. The adrenergic response is a healthy response to real threats. It prepares the body for a fight-or-flight response in the presence of danger. However, when the response continues over time as a reaction to psychological stress or an anxiety disorder, it can have detrimental effects on health.

Glucose and Stress

A high intake of carbohydrates can cause glucose, or blood sugar, levels to rise. Over time, elevated blood sugar levels can trigger the formation of plaque in the blood vessels, making it difficult for blood to circulate. The brain interprets this as a threat and activates the adrenergic system, causing it to secrete stress hormones. Cutting down the intake of carbohydrates and eating healthy "stress-reducing" fats, such as those found in salmon and tuna, can offset this response, lowering the secretion of stress hormones and the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Extreme Low-Carb Dieting

If a low-carb diet is taken to the extreme, the intake of all nutrients is restricted. The brain interprets this as a state of starvation and a source of stress. The body responds to this internal environment by triggering the adrenal glands to secrete stress hormones, which can cause adrenergic symptoms such as heart palpitations, muscle tension, excess sweating, fear, anxiety and lethargy.