Adrenal fatigue is a condition in which the adrenal glands, located on top of the kidneys, become fatigued and are unable to produce the hormones that your body needs to regulate stress and maintain energy levels. This condition is becoming increasingly common, affecting many individuals in today’s fast-paced society.
Symptoms of Adrenal Fatigue
Adrenal fatigue can cause a wide range of symptoms, including:
- Fatigue and low energy levels, especially in the mornings or afternoons.
- Difficulty sleeping and staying asleep.
- Craving salty or sugary foods.
- Digestive issues (IBS/D, leaky gut, food intolerance, diarrhea, constipation, gas, bloating)
- Increased gut permeability and allergies/sensitivities.
- Prolonged infections – can’t seem to get over an illness or it morphs into something else
- Reduced ability to handle stress. In stressful situations you may feel a tightening in your throat.
- Get sick more frequently.
- Muscle weakness.
- Slow metabolism and weight gain.
- Depression and anxiety.
- PMS/PMT
- Infertility
Causes of Adrenal Fatigue
Adrenal fatigue is caused by a number of factors, including:
- Chronic stress: Prolonged stress can take a toll on your adrenal glands and reduce their ability to produce hormones. This includes excessive exercise, prolonged fasting, or yo-yo dieting
- Lack of sleep: Not getting enough sleep can increase stress levels and put pressure on your adrenal glands.
- Poor diet: A diet that is high in sugar, caffeine, and processed foods lead to nutritional deficiencies that can disrupt hormone levels and tax the adrenal glands.
- Chronic infections: Long-standing infections, such as candida or Lyme disease, can put a strain on the adrenal glands.
- Chronic illnesses: Certain chronic illnesses, such as autoimmune disorders, can lead to adrenal fatigue.
Recovering From Adrenal Fatigue
The recommendations I make depend on the individual’s symptoms and underlying causes. I cover these topics in part 2 of my adrenal health series:
- Managing stress
- Improving sleep habits
- Eating a healthy diet
Adrenal fatigue is a common condition that can cause a wide range of symptoms. If you think you may be experiencing adrenal fatigue, it’s important to work with a knowledgeable health practitioner to determine the underlying cause and find the best treatment plan for you. With proper care, it is possible to recover from adrenal fatigue and reclaim your energy and vitality.
