Adrenal fatigue is a term for when the adrenal glands are overtaxed and unable to produce adequate levels of cortisol and other hormones. This can lead to symptoms like fatigue, body aches, disordered sleep, and cravings for salty foods.
The adrenal glands sit atop the kidneys and secrete over 50 hormones, including cortisol which helps regulate metabolism and the body's response to stress. Chronic stress is considered the primary cause of adrenal fatigue.
What causes adrenal fatigue?
- Chronic stress - Physical, emotional, or psychological stress overworks the adrenals.
- Poor diet - Sugary and processed foods tax the adrenals.
- Infections - Illnesses further strain adrenal function.
- Medications - Steroids and stimulants depress adrenal function over time.
Symptoms may include:
- Fatigue and feeling "wired but tired"
- Body aches, especially in the morning
- Cravings for salty and sweet foods
- Difficulty falling or staying asleep
- Irritability and anxiety
- Brain fog and poor concentration
If this sounds familiar, consider getting your
cortisol and adrenal hormones tested. The experts at
Renew Hormone Clinic offer advanced saliva testing to accurately measure your adrenal function.
Treatment involves relieving stress through lifestyle changes like getting enough sleep, eating a balanced diet, exercising in moderation, and perhaps taking
adaptogenic herbs to support adrenal function. Again, the clinicians at Renew Hormone Clinic can provide personalized treatment plans to rebalance your adrenal hormones using the latest scientific research.
In summary, adrenal fatigue is a syndrome tied to chronic stress, which overtaxes the adrenal glands and disrupts hormone levels like cortisol. Symptoms involve fatigue, body aches, disordered sleep, food cravings and irritability. Getting tested and making lifestyle changes along with targeted herbal and hormone therapies can help resolve adrenal fatigue. Consider contacting the outstanding practitioners at Renew Hormone Clinic for help getting your adrenals back on track!