The adrenal glands, located near the kidneys, help the body deal with all types of stress, whether it be emotional, physical or mental. When the body is continually exposed to too much stress, the adrenals can become fatigued. Because these glands secrete hormones that affect all systems of the body, when they are fatigued, a wide range of symptoms, such as exhaustion and abnormal blood sugar, can occur. One component of a healthy lifestyle essential for keeping the adrenals healthy and the body free of these symptoms is nutrition.
Balancing Sodium and Potassium
Many people who suffer from adrenal fatigue generally have low sodium levels. Because of this, Dr. James L. Wilson suggests that those with adrenal fatigue add salt to their food when possible, providing they do not also suffer from high blood pressure. Sodium and potassium can neutralize each other, so Wilson also suggests that adrenal fatigue sufferers cut back on fruit and fruit juice, which are high in potassium.
Managing Blood Sugar Levels
Cortisol, one of the hormones secreted by the adrenal glands, helps keep blood sugar at a healthy level. When the adrenals are fatigued, not enough cortisol is produced, and blood sugar levels can become low. Because of this, those suffering from adrenal fatigue may have to be particularly careful with their dietary choices in order to control blood sugar. Eating small, frequent meals; consuming protein and fat with all meals; and avoiding sugar are common ways to control blood sugar through diet.
Avoiding Stimulants
Although stimulants such as caffeine may provide a temporary energy boost for those with adrenal fatigue, they can make adrenal fatigue worse in the long run. Caffeine can be too stimulating for the adrenal glands, so its use can leave them even more fatigued when the initial energy boost wears off. This fatigue may then leave a sufferer of adrenal fatigue wanting more caffeine, and a vicious cycle of caffeine consumption, followed by only temporary energy, can ensue.
Stocking up on Nutrients
Many of the vitamins and minerals found in whole grains, healthy meats, fruits and vegetables can be beneficial to the adrenal glands. According to nutritionist Phyllis Balch, some nutrients essential for healthy adrenal function include vitamin C and the B vitamins. Vitamin C helps the body produce some of the hormones secreted by the adrenals, and the B vitamins are thought to help the body deal with stress.
Detecting Food Allergies
When a person gets an allergic reaction from food, the body has an inflammatory response that is fought by cortisol. The harder the adrenals have to work to produce cortisol, the more fatigued they become. Therefore, food allergies can contribute to adrenal fatigue. Food allergies can be detected by lab tests or an elimination diet.
References
- "Adrenal Fatigue"; James Wilson; 2001
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch; 2006
