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Exhausted? Gaining Weight? You May Have Adrenal Fatigue
Paula Gallagher on
If you are chronically tired, fatigued, and or stressed, you may have adrenal fatigue. The adrenal glands are two small glands located on top of each kidney, and they play an essential role in regulating the body's stress response. These glands produce and secrete hormones such as cortisol and DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone) that help the body respond to stress and maintain balance.
Cortisol and DHEA: What Are They and What Do They Do?
Cortisol is a hormone that is produced by the adrenal glands in response to stress. It helps to regulate blood sugar levels, blood pressure, and the body's immune response. Cortisol is often referred to as the "stress hormone" because it is released in response to stress, whether physical or emotional.
DHEA, on the other hand, is a hormone that is produced by the adrenal glands, but it plays a different role than cortisol. DHEA is a precursor hormone, which means that it is converted into other hormones such as testosterone and estrogen. DHEA is also involved in the body's stress response, but it works differently than cortisol. DHEA helps to counterbalance the effects of cortisol, promoting relaxation and reducing inflammation.
What is Adrenal Fatigue?
Adrenal fatigue is a condition where the adrenal glands, which are responsible for producing hormones that help the body respond to stress, become overworked and unable to function correctly.
Common Signs and Symptoms of Adrenal Fatigue
- Fatigue and exhaustion, even after adequate rest
- Weight gain
- Difficulty sleeping or insomnia
- Cravings for salty or sweet foods
- Brain fog or difficulty concentrating
- Anxiety or depression
- Low blood pressure
- Decreased immune function or frequent illness
- Loss of libido or sexual dysfunction
- Muscle weakness or joint pain
- Digestive issues such as bloating, constipation or diarrhea
It's important to note that these symptoms can be indicative of other health conditions as well, and a practitioner can help you. Additionally, cortisol testing may be helpful in determining if adrenal dysfunction is a contributing factor to these symptoms.
Supporting Adrenal Health
Lifestyle
Lifestyle choices such as getting enough sleep, exercising regularly, and reducing stress can be helpful in improving adrenal health. Practicing stress-reducing techniques such as meditation, yoga and deep breathing can help reduce cortisol levels and promote relaxation. Eating a healthy diet that is rich in whole foods and low in sugar and processed foods can also support adrenal health.
Supplements
Adaptogenic herbs like ashwagandha, rhodiola, and holy basil have been shown to support healthy adrenal function. These herbs help the body adapt to stress, reducing cortisol levels and promoting relaxation. Other supplements such as magnesium, vitamin C, and B vitamins can also help support adrenal health.
Before taking a supplement, consider a lab test to give you a view of your adrenal health. Supplements and diet can be personalized based on individual results.
Lab Tests
An Andrenal Stress Profile test is a noninvasive saliva test that measures cortisol and DHEA, which are produced by the adrenal glands in response to stress. These hormones influence metabolism, inflammation and thyroid function, and can affect energy levels and resistance to disease. Too much or too little cortisol or DHEA can negatively impact health. If you are experiencing symptoms, such as morning or afternoon fatigue, poor concentration, feeling "tired but wired," sleep disturbances, increased cravings, or susceptibility to illnesses, this test may be helpful for you.
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