Adrenal Fatigue Syndrome

Fact or Fiction

 

Adrenal fatigue is a term used to describe a collection of signs and symptoms that results when (in theory), the adrenal glands function below the necessary level.  

The cause is thought to be intense or prolonged stress, or, following acute or chronic illness.

Typically the main symptom is fatigue/tiredness or "gray feelings".  People experiencing adrenal fatigue often have to use coffee/colas to get going in the morning and to prop themselves up during the day.

Other symptoms include;

• Low Blood Pressue
• Easily irritated
• Craving salt
• Premature aging
• Dry skin
• Low libido
• Poor sleep
• Chronic infections (bacterial, fungal, yeast)

To date, there is no medical evidence to support such a syndrome!  It is proposed that these symptoms are more likely to be associated with other causes of fatigue. It is important to consult with your GP to rule these out. 

If these symptoms sound at all familiar you could try these natural methods to provide support to your body. (and of coarse seek medical advice)

• Eliminate sugar (EEK - I know!!)
• Incorporate whole foods, nuts, seeds, vegetables and beans in to your diet
• Get quality sleep
• Quit the coffee habit (you CAN do it)
• Incorporate stress management techniques in to your life.  Try deep breathing, meditation and yoga.

 

Cortisol and Stress: How to Stay Healthy

What is Cortisol?

Cortisol is a hormone secreted by the adrenal glands and is released in response to stressful situations (physical, mental or emotional).  It increases the flow of glucose (as well as protein and fat) out of your tissues and in to the bloodstream in order to increase energy and physical readiness to handle the stressful situation.

Ideally cortisol is meant to come on immediately, get used and then switch off!  It is not meant to get stored and stick around.  While it is an important and helpful part of the body’s response to stress, it is important that the body’s relaxation response be activated so the body’s functions can return to normal after a stressful event.

Unfortunately in our high stress lifestyles, the body’s stress response is activated soften that the body doesn’t always have a chance to return to normal, causing damage to the body.
Ideally your cortisol level should be neither consistently high nor low but fluctuating in a rhythmic pattern, responding to both stress and relaxation.

Persistently high cortisol levels seen in people, who are suffering from prolonged or chronic stress, are associated with:

•   Obesity
•   Increased fat storage around the abdomen even in lean women
•   Heart disease
•    Depression/anxiety
•    Chronic fatigue
•   Fibromyalgia
•   Diabetes

If you have a hectic lifestyle, family or money issues, deadlines, rushing here and there, eating fast food, lack of sleep or exercise, you are a prime candidate for elevated cortisol levels.

To keep your body healthy and your cortisol secretion under control, the body’s relaxation response should be activated after each stress response.
The following have been found to be helpful in relaxing mind and body and stimulating the relaxation response:

•    Meditation
•    Listening to music
•    Yoga
•    Exercise
•    Breathing exercises
•    Sleep between 7 and 9 hours a night