Adrenal Disorder
The triangle shaped
organs that rest on top of the kidneys are the adrenals. The
adrenal glands operate in concert with the hypothalamus and
pituitary, which regulate metabolism and physical functions. The
three work closely together and are known as the HPA axis.
Disruptions in one organ throws off the usual operation of other
glands.
An adrenal response occurs with psychological,
emotional, environmental and infectious stress. Prolonged stress
can trigger unfavorable effects in the body that can progress to
chronic disease states.
The medulla secrets adrenaline and norepinephrine to help the body
handle stress by escalating metabolism. The cortex is
in charge for maintaining the body's balance, regulating sugar
metabolism, and a complex array of steroid hormones such as
cortisone, DHEA, progesterone, estrogen and testosterone.
Adrenal function is impaired by long term cortico-steroid drug
use, as these will cause the adrenals to shrink.
It is possible to have adrenal fatigue and not
know it. The fatigue can be covered up by constantly
drinking coffee, or any drink with caffeine. One of my customers
would not address the issue, and developed onset diabetes.
If you lead a high stress life, and need 5 cups of coffee just to
get started in the morning. Get checked, it doesn't
hurt it is a saliva test.
Common symptoms of poor adrenal health are:
lack of energy
unable to stay alert
Fatigue
poor memory
moodiness
brittle nails
dry skin
food cravings
depression
lack of sleep
carbohydrate cravings
high blood pressure
suppressed immune function
allergies
hair loss
Pre-Disposing
Factors / Common Causes:
1. Continuous Stress
2. Anterior Pituitary dysfunction
3. Diet high in sugar and refined carbohydrates
4. Excess of Caffeine
5. B vitamins deficiency
Lifestyle
Sleep at least 8 hours a night
Fresh air
Sunshine
Drink Fresh water
Yoga to reduce stress
Review medications to insure they are not the underlying cause
Eat a balanced diet
Supplements that May Help
Supplements
Property of Supplement
| Wild
Yam |
helps to
maintain hormonal balance. The fundamental nature of
the action of yam appears to be in facilitating the
production of DHEA, 'the mother of hormones' |
| Licorice |
helping the
adrenal glands to produce natural steroids and also to
help balance the immune system in cases of auto-immune
disorders as well as reduce inflammation via these two
routes |
| Vitamin C |
Vital for Adrenal Function |
| B Vitamin
Complex |
Necessary for adrenal
function. Pre-curser to digestion |
| Schisandra
Berries |
adaptogens |
| Ashwagandha |
adaptogens |
| L-Tyrosine |
Relieves excess stress |
| Co Q-10 |
Carries oxygen to all the
glands |
| Ginseng |
A natural adaptogen |
| Hops |
Helps to relax and de-stress |
Sour
Jujuba Seed Raw
Suan Zao Ren |
calming, tonic yin |
References:
National Cancer Institute
Healthy Healing by Page
The Science of Self Healing by Dr. Lad
Adrenal Fatigue by James Wilson D.C
Adrenal Fatigue, the 21st Century Syndrome by JL Wilson
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