Adrenal Fatigue

Overview: What is Adrenal Fatigue?

Adrenal Fatigue is a syndrome that causes a wide variety of symptoms all stemming from an imbalance of an individuals hormonal systems. Specifically the hormones secreted by your Adrenal Glands (also known as your Suprarenal Glands located on top of your Kidneys).

Your Adrenal Glands regulate your stress response (fight or flight instinct) through the release of 2 hormones: Cortisol and Epinephrine (also known as Adrenaline). They also produce DHEA, Progesterone, Estrogen and Testosterone.

Imbalances of these 2 primary Adrenal Hormones can lead to problems in the human body.


Signs and Symptoms:
For a quick quiz check out the adrenal fatigue quiz @ adrenalfatigue.org

Anyone under stress, be it physical from a chronic pain condition, emotional or mental is at risk of the burn out of Adrenal Fatigue.

Feeling tired all the time isn't normal! relying on coffee or other stimulants to get going would be a classic sign.

Weight gain for 'no reason' is another symptom. Especially when it outwardly appears that the person is doing all the right things with their diet and exercise.

Muscle weakness, absent minded behaviours, mood swings and food cravings are also signs.

Adrenal Fatigue often closely mimics a Thyroid Disorder.


Treatments:

Relaxation!
Sleeping 8-10 hours uninterrupted.
Regular meals (every 3-4 hours).
Nutritional Supplements such as B-complex, Vitamin C, Vitamin D, Magnesium and Minerals.
Avoiding highly processed foods and refined carbohydrates.