adrenal fatigue

Question
Do you know of any foods that will really help adrenal fatigue?

Answer
Adrenal fatigue is caused by chronic stress, which overworks the adrenal glands, which help moderate some of the hormones that work to combat stress. Symptoms include fatigue, irritability, poor sleep, decreased immunity, and increased weight. Unfortunately,  many of the foods people turn to when fatigued (coffee) or want to relax (alcohol) are detrimental to overcoming adrenal fatigue. While there are no magic foods I can turn you to so you can feel better, I will try to give you some guidelines.  Avoid alcohol and tobacco, both of which tax the body as it tries to clear out the toxins. You should try to stay away from caffeine, the immediate effects are short-lived and even caffeine consumed early in the day can effect sleep at night. Studies suggest crunchy foods, such as apples, are actually better at waking people anyway. Another common pick-me-up, simple sugar (as found in candy, soda, and energy drinks) should also be avoided due to following drops in blood sugar. For the best energy, eat every 2-3 hours, avoiding large meals. Include protein, fat, and carbohydrates each time you eat to help keep blood sugar steady. People with adrenal fatigue often have low levels of the hormone aldosterone, which can cause electrolyte imbalance, dehydration, and low blood pressure; if other health conditions allow, try to add iodized salt to your diet and drink LOTS of water every day. (Even slight dehydration can contribute to feelings of fatigue.) Limiting foods high in potassium may also be beneficial. Some studies suggest adrenal fatigue and gluten intolerance may be related and some people claim to have more energy after reducing the amount of gluten (found in wheat and some other common grains) in their diet. If you are looking for a supplement,  chamomile tea, ginseng, licorice root, B-complex vitamins,  vitamin C, and a multivitamin which also contains minerals (especially calcium, zinc, magnesium, and selenium), may all be beneficial, but remember to ensure supplements will not interact with any medications you may be taking. Exercise is also beneficial for reducing cortisol levels and overall relieving stress, so if you can manage to take a walk every day or begin an exercise routine, that may also help with your symptoms.

I hope that at least gives you a starting point to begin to improve your diet. I wish you all the best!!!

1. Prev:Low carb and P90X
2. Next:Low Carb Snacks