Adrenal fatigue - Balance Hormone Center

What is adrenal fatigue?

Adrenal fatigue refers to a collection of signs and symptoms that result when the adrenal glands cannot adequately meet the demands of stress. It is characterized by feeling consistently tired and drained despite getting adequate rest and sleep.

The adrenal glands produce key hormones including cortisol to regulate metabolism, blood sugar levels, blood pressure, inflammation, and the "fight or flight" stress response. Overwork and chronic stress can overburden the adrenals and gradually weaken their function. When taxed for too long, they struggle to keep up with the body's demands.

Common signs and symptoms of adrenal fatigue may include:

• Fatigue and low energy levels
• Difficulty getting up in the morning
• Cravings for salty and sweet foods
• Low libido
• Brain fog, poor concentration, and forgetfulness
• Mood changes, irritability, and depression
• Sleep disturbances
• Digestive issues like bloating and constipation
• Low tolerance for stressors that were previously manageable

What causes adrenal fatigue?

Frequent or prolonged stress is the primary culprit behind adrenal exhaustion. Your lifestyle choices also play a major role. Factors that strain the adrenals include:

• Emotional stress from relationships, finances, or work overload
• Physical stress from injury, disease, poor nutrition, or lack of sleep
• Environmental toxins
• Too much caffeine, sugar, or alcohol
• Chronic worry, negativity, and perfectionism

If ignored for too long, mild adrenal weakness can eventually progress to full-blown adrenal fatigue and lead to additional health issues like thyroid problems, infertility, and burnout.

How is adrenal fatigue treated?

Treatment focuses on identifying and reducing the lifestyle factors taxing your adrenals while supporting weakened adrenal function. Key remedies aim to:

• Minimize stress exposure
• Get adequate restorative sleep
• Follow an anti-inflammatory nutrient-dense diet
• Correct nutritional deficiencies
• Engage in adaptogenic herbs like ashwagandha, ginseng, and rhodiola
• Use Bioidentical adrenal hormone therapy if indicated
• Pursue enjoyable activities and self-care

With proper treatment guided by your healthcare provider, adrenal fatigue can be effectively reversed and managed in most cases. Supporting weakened adrenals now helps safeguard your long-term health, vitality, and resilience.