A Stressful Lifestyle Can Cause Adrenal Fatigue

In this hectic society, many people experience adrenal fatigue and are not aware of it. The adrenals are two small organs located on top of the kidneys. They secrete hormones that trigger stress reactions such as the “fight or flight” instinct, and are involved in a complex hormone interaction between the hypothalamus and the pituitary glands. A diagnosis of hypoadrenalism means the adrenals have a reduced hormonal response. This inhibits an individual’s ability to handle stress, as well as many other disorders. Addison’s disease is the chronic condition of adrenal insufficiency. Weak adrenals are inherited, and the condition runs in families.

Symptoms of adrenal fatigue include chronic fatigue, dizziness, and fainting. Memory loss and forgetfulness can also be caused by low adrenal function. It can also be caused by extremes in weather (hot or cold), physical trauma or injury, or a period of stress, such as a long-term illness. Diet plays a role as it can rob the body of B vitamins. Metal toxicity can trigger adrenal fatigue as well, with exposure to lead, mercury, cadmium or aluminum. The adrenals also manufacture aldosterone, which controls salt and potassium balance. Without enough of this hormone, the body can become dehydrated.

Low blood pressure can be another indicator, and one that is frequently overlooked, as low blood pressure is not considered an abnormal medical condition. Standing blood pressure versus sitting blood pressure can be used as a diagnostic. A healthy person will have a higher blood pressure after standing, but those with hypoadrenalism will have a drop in BP.

Adrenal fatigue can also lead to insomnia. While some natural remedies for insomnia may relieve the problem temporarily, if the underlying cause is in the hypoadrenalism, the adrenals will need to be healed for lasting relief to occur.

Allergies can be related to adrenal failure as well, because people with low adrenal function can stop producing the hydrochloric acid needed for digestion. When this happens, the body is unable to digest protein. This can lead to food allergies, nutrient deficiency or hypoglycemia.

Strenuous exercise can be interpreted by the body as stress, and trigger the “fight or flight” mechanism in the adrenals. Intense exercise can cause adrenal fatigue and will deter from healing the adrenals. For those with hypothyroidism, exercising at a low intensity is advised, and slowly building back to the previous aerobic level.

Cortisol levels can be tested via blood or saliva, to monitor adrenal function. The saliva test checks cortisol at different times of the day. Used to diagnose Cushing’s syndrome and Addison’s disease (serious adrenal disorders), physicians are now using these blood and saliva tests more frequently to evaluate hypoadrenalism. Normal cortisol levels are low in the evening and highest in the morning. Pregnancy, stress and illness can all increase cortisol levels.

There are numerous natural methods to treat hypoadrenalism. Adaptogens are plants known to help reduce adrenal reaction. Rhodiola is one of the adaptogens used to treat stress and research has proven its effectiveness. Vitamin C and the B complex help rebuild the adrenal gland. Supplements that contain raw animal adrenals have been useful for some.

A natural diet helps heal the adrenal gland. Processed foods should be eliminated along with sugars, including honey, molasses or fruit juices, to help stabilize the blood sugar. Whole foods and vegetables add fiber, nutrients and vitality that cannot be supplied in supplements. Water helps maintain hydration.

The most important factor in healing the adrenals is rest, both physically and emotionally. Meditation and relaxation are advised. Alternate being busy and active, with time to relax and restore. Doing and not-doing are the yin/yang of a healthy lifestyle.