The adrenal glands are small organs that rest on top of the kidneys and are part of the endocrine system. The health of these glands is important because they produce several key hormones in the body that directly affect the immune system and the stress response. Disorders related to the adrenal glands include reduced adrenal function and adrenal weakness. Replenishing key nutrients through a proper diet can promote the healing and strengthening of the adrenal glands.
Quality Proteins
Eat deep-water ocean fish, salmon or tuna three times a week. Also, include other plant-based sources of protein such as nuts, seeds, leafy green vegetables, soy and other legumes. Minimize animal-based proteins, including meat, fowl, eggs and dairy. Proteins that put additional stress on the adrenals include ham, pork and processed proteins such as bacon, cheese and packaged lunch meats.
All Vegetables
Vegetables offer a wide variety of nutrients for adrenal support, including essential antioxidants, vitamins, minerals and fiber. Consume plenty of vegetables every day (six to eight servings), especially those of the dark leafy green variety. Throughout the week, eat vegetables of all the rainbow colors, including purple, blue, green, red, orange and yellow. All vegetables are beneficial for the adrenal gland with the exception of any specific vegetables that an individual might be allergic to.
Limited Fruits
Fruits are also high in fiber and contain many phytochemicals. The fruits that most people with weak adrenals do well with are apples, pears, plums, cherries, papayas, mangoes and small amounts of grapes. Choose these fruits from local and organically grown sources whenever possible. However, if one has blood sugar issues or adrenal fatigue, go lightly on all fruits and especially avoid grapefruits, oranges, figs, dates, raisins and bananas.
Unrefined Carbohydrates
The foods that most people with adrenal weakness crave the most are foods made with sugar and white flour, including pies, cakes, cookies, candy bars, doughnuts and bread. These foods quickly raise blood sugar levels, causing excess insulin release and creating more stress for the adrenal glands. Choose whole-grain products instead, which have more fiber, take longer to digest and will not spike blood sugars. Avoid all sugars, including artificial sweeteners.
Potassium-Rich Foods
Foods that are high in potassium can help to rejuvenate the adrenal gland and restore its function. The best sources of potassium-rich foods include seaweeds such as dulse and kelp, wheat germ, sunflower seeds, almonds, Brazil nuts, pecans, peanuts, raisins, dates, figs and avocados. Also, include in the diet onions, garlic, shiitake mushrooms and pearl barley. These foods contain some potassium as well as germanium, a powerful immune system booster.
References
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch; 2006
- AdrenalFatigue.org: Diet for Adrenal Fatigue
- NaturalWays.com: Adrenal Weakness
