What causes adrenal fatigue?
The term "adrenal fatigue" attempts to explain and cluster the mysterious symptoms that come alongside chronic stress, chronic fatigue, and burnout syndrome.
These symptoms are associated with an overworked adrenal gland and cortisol imbalance. And unfortunately, they often are written off in conventional medicine.
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The signs and symptoms of adrenal fatigue may include:
Feeling tired all the time, yet sometimes still “wired”
Trouble concentrating and brain fog
Anxiety and nervousness
Disturbed sleep patterns
Impaired digestion and stomach pains
Decreased libido
Mood swings and changes
What causes adrenal fatigue?
Stage 1: Chronic Stress & Cortisol Overproduction
The adrenal glands respond to stress by releasing cortisol, the primary stress hormone. Typically, the stressor subsides and cortisol levels return to normal. In chronic stress, there is a consistent demand on the adrenal glands to release cortisol.
In this stage, one may test with high cortisol.
Stage 2: Adrenal Fatigue & Symptom Onset
The adrenals continuously produce cortisol in response to the chronic stress, eventually straining the adrenal glands ability to produce. This leads to decreased cortisol production.
In this stage, one may test with low cortisol. Low cortisol is the culprit to many of the symptoms listed above.
How to heal adrenal fatigue
Reversing adrenal fatigue requires a holistic approach incorporating diet, lifestyle, and therapeutic supplements.
Diet
An anti-inflammatory diet rich n healthy fats, high-quality protein, and antioxidants help to restore adrenal function. Processed foods, excessive caffeine and alcohol, and added sugar should be avoided.
Eating regularly throughout the day to maintain blood sugar balance is also important for healing. No fasting!
Lifestyle
Take a hard, honest look at your current stress levels and changes that need to occur to reduce or manage them. I know, it’s hard and it sucks. But, without addressing this root cause, you’ll end up in the same position soon enough.
Be gentle with yourself by recognizing that some stressors may be out of your control. What is in your control?
Supplements
Increased demand on the adrenals may lead to the need for supplemental vitamin C, magnesium, or B complex vitamins.
Adaptogenic herbs also can be incredibly useful, though a consult is needed with a professional to ensure the proper herbal blend and dosage for safety.
Where do I start?
Schedule a consult to discuss your needs. Labs may be needed to assess your adrenal health, including a 24-hour saliva cortisol test, hormone panels, and micronutrient assessment.
There is hope for you, I promise.
