Adrenal fatigue is a real thing, and it’s something many people suffer from.
It’s a hormonal imbalance that, if left untreated, can lead to more severe health problems like anxiety, depression, and autoimmune diseases.
It’s characterised by low energy levels and can be caused by several things, from stress and a poor diet to lack of sleep. With adrenal fatigue, you feel tired all the time, your brain feels foggy, and you generally feel under the weather.
Thankfully, there are many natural ways to fight back against adrenal fatigue. Read on to find out how.
WHAT IS FATIGUE?
Your hormones are essential in regulating several body processes, including development and growth, metabolism, sexual health and reproduction, appetite, thirst, body temperature, mental function and mood. Some of the most common hormones include adrenaline, which causes a rush of energy in the body; cortisol, which is released when you feel stressed; insulin, which regulates the metabolism; and serotonin, which helps stabilise mood and aids relaxation and sleep.
Adrenal fatigue occurs when your adrenal glands don’t produce enough cortisol. This hormone is essential for maintaining blood sugar levels, regulating metabolism, and reducing inflammation. When you’re stressed, your body produces more cortisol, but if you’re constantly stressed, your adrenal glands can become ‘fatigued’ and stop producing as much. This can lead to a whole host of problems like fatigue, weight gain, anxiety and depression.
Physical stressors like illness or injury can cause adrenal fatigue, but it’s more often caused by psychological stressors like chronic stress at work or home. If you’re constantly juggling work, family, and social obligations, your adrenal glands will eventually start to wear out.
Other causes of adrenal fatigue include chronic illness, infection and emotional trauma.
You must see a doctor if you think you are suffering from adrenal fatigue. The good news is it’s a treatable condition, but it won’t go away on its own. You can overcome adrenal fatigue with the right treatment plan and start feeling like yourself again.
WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF ADRENAL FATIGUE?
It might be more than just stress if you’re constantly feeling exhausted. It could be adrenal fatigue.
Other symptoms to watch out for include:
- Fatigue
- General aches and pains
- Low blood pressure
- Sensitivity to the cold
- Poor sleep
- Difficulty concentrating
- Decreased sex drive
- Having a hard time losing weight
- Irritability
- Restlessness
- Feelings of panic or anxiety
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to see a doctor to rule out other conditions. Adrenal fatigue can be treated with lifestyle changes and supplements.
WHAT ARE SOME NATURAL WAYS TO TREAT ADRENAL FATIGUE?
The good news is there are many natural ways to treat adrenal fatigue. One of the best things you can do for adrenal fatigue is to get rid of the stress in your life. This means making lifestyle changes, such as eliminating toxic relationships, cutting back on work, and taking time for yourself.
If you want to try some natural remedies, adaptogenic herbs like Ashwagandha or Siberian Ginseng can help reduce stress levels, while Omega-3 fatty acids can help reduce inflammation. Another excellent natural remedy for adrenal fatigue is getting enough sleep. This means getting around eight hours of sleep every night and ensuring a regular sleep schedule.
Eating foods that are high in nutritious value will also help your body to heal and recover from adrenal fatigue. Avoid processed foods, caffeine, and alcohol, as they can worsen symptoms. Protein is nature’s building block and should be a vital part of every meal. It provides the essential amino acids your body can’t make on its own and plays a crucial role in developing healthy muscles, bones and skin. Protein also helps to regulate the release of hormones that control appetite. It also helps to boost metabolism and burn fat quicker. B vitamins can help your body to recover from adrenal fatigue. They help the body produce more energy, which can be particularly helpful if you’re dealing with adrenal fatigue. Try taking a B vitamin supplement once a day.
Eating the right amount of calories is also vital. Too much – or too little – food throughout the day can throw your hormonal balance off-kilter and lead to weight problems. Overeating increases insulin levels and reduces insulin sensitivity, especially if you’re overweight.
However, cutting your calorie intake can lead to an increase in cortisol, which your body will release in response to being ‘starved’.
And although it may not seem the most logical thing to do when dealing with adrenal fatigue, regular exercise, especially in the morning, can help the body recover from adrenal fatigue. Do light stretching before starting your day, and then go for a brisk walk or jog.
Exercise also helps to flood your body with endorphins, the feel-good hormones which regulate mood and promote better rest and recovery.
CAN NATURAL SUPPLEMENTS HELP BEAT ADRENAL FATIGUE?
While eating well can go a long way to supporting healthy adrenal function, good-quality supplements can top up any shortfall. Master Gland, our key system product for glandular health, contains a specially formulated blend of antioxidant vitamins, minerals, phytonutrients and zinc. It supplies the glands with nutrients that contribute to normal metabolism, immune system and cognitive function.
