Could It Be Adrenal Fatigue?
Adrenal fatigue is a buzz word in the holistic atmosphere right now. What is it? What causes it? Could you have it?
Although we don't have the time to delve deep into everything behind adrenal fatigue, it is something I feel that needs to be on more people's radar. It could be the cause of a number of symptoms you may be experiencing.
Daily living causes much stress, which is not easy on the adrenal glands. The adrenal glands (also known as suprarenal glands) are the triangle-shaped endocrine glands that sit atop the kidneys. They are chiefly responsible for regulating the stress response through the synthesis of corticosteroids like cortisol and catecholamines like adrenaline.
When the adrenals are tired, the body may experience a number of different symptoms. The most common symptoms caused by tired or worn-out adrenal glands are:
Again, this doesn't even begin to cover all the symptoms you could be experiencing with adrenal fatigue. That's where listening to your body and understanding the signals its sending you becomes critical.
If you suspect you might have tired adrenals, address it right away. Adrenal glands are extremely important to a healthy immune system. They are also necessary for proper thyroid function. To support your adrenals, use the following tips:
Firstly, get some sleep. You must rest if you are going to help your adrenals get stronger. That means having a regular sleep schedule and getting eight hours of sleep a night. Make this a priority and stick with it. Your adrenals need their beauty sleep!
Second, eliminate sugar and processed carbs. Sugar and simple carbs (junk!) put stress on the adrenals. Adrenal glands help to regulate blood sugar levels.
Third, eat real, whole food! Protein from animals, healthy fats, and lots of fruits and veggies.
Next, curb your coffee habit and drink plenty of filtered water every day.
Lastly, relax. This is the HARDEST of the steps, but it is the most critical. You must stop the stress hormones from being released over even the smallest of things. Start journaling, take up yoga, or practice deep breathing. Whatever works for you in order to destress, do it. Today.
xoxo Olivia