The adrenal glands are where stress-related hormones and epinephrine are produced in the body. These glands are naturally rich in vitamin C, and are responsive to the general stress levels of the body. The best foods for the adrenal glands are those that are naturally rich in vitamin C and flavonoids, as well as foods that reduce the overall stress on the body.
Dark Berries
Fruits in general are high in both vitamin C and fiber, and the best foods for the adrenal glands are dark-colored berries. Blackberries, marion berries, raspberries, plums, cherries, strawberries, grapes, pomegranate, rose hips, acerola, and citrus fruits like oranges and tangerines are great foods for the adrenals.
Dark Green Vegetables
Spinach, Swiss chard, collard greens, red cabbage, asparagus and leaf lettuces are, in general, full of antioxidants and good for the adrenals.
Root Vegetables
Many root vegetables, especially the highly colored ones, are also good for the adrenals. Beets, carrots and radishes are some of the root vegetables that are good food for the adrenals.
Seafood
Many fish are good food for the adrenals, including cold water fish high in omega 3 fatty acids such as cod, sardines, halibut and salmon. Sea vegetables are also good for the adrenals, and include arame, hijiki, dulse, wakame, sea lettuce, kombu and nori.
Other Foods
Green tea is excellent for the adrenal glands, and a great substitute for coffee. Whole grains such as brown rice and whole wheat are good foods to nourish the adrenals. Organic, free-range eggs are a good food for the adrenals if not eaten excessively, because they provide dense nutrition with good cholesterol and fatty acids.
References
- "Medical Nutrition from Marz;" Russell Marz; 1998
- "Healing with whole foods: Asian traditions and modern nutrition"; Paul Pitchford, 2002
