Holistic Treatment of Sluggish Adrenal Glands
One of the major organs in the endocrine system is the adrenal gland. This is the "fight or flight" gland that kicks in when we are in trouble. The adrenal gland monitors and reacts stress in the body. When a perceived stress is present, the adrenal gland releases cortisol into the blood. The result is a rapid heart beat and increased blood pressure. Sometimes, due to constant stressors, the adrenal gland can become sluggish and burned out which can result in a condition called adrenal fatigue. Holistic treatment may be the solution for some.
Burn-Out
Adrenal fatigue can be hard to diagnose because it often goes undetected in a blood test. A sluggish adrenal gland can result in a wide and varied list of symptoms which can often be misread for many other diseases or disorders. Some of these symptoms include weight gain and a strong resistance to weight loss, memory loss, hair loss, lack of energy, depression, dizziness, lightheadedness, low blood pressure, high heart rate, bad PMS and menstrual cramps and unusually dry skin. These symptoms on their own can signal many other conditions so it is important to see a doctor who can view the larger picture and accurately diagnose you. Causes of adrenal fatigue can not always be pin-pointed but may include depression, stress, sleep deprivation, diet and bacterial infection. Also another side effect of adrenal fatigue can include irritable bowel syndrome, constipation or loose stools. This often results in mal-absorption of essential nutrients by the body which only compounds the problem of fatigue and mental confusion.
Herbs and Supplements
Herbs and supplements have been used by some holistic naturopaths in the treatment of adrenal fatigue. Not everyone will respond positively but vitamins and herbal supplements may help treat and balance the adrenal imbalance. Magnesium, antioxidants and Omega 3 vitamins can sometimes help balance the adrenal gland and help return your energy levels to normal. Vitamin C has been used in combination with bioflavonoids as well as vitamin E and a good vitamin B complex in conjunction with conventional treatment. Herbs that some have claimed effective are Rhodiola Rosea which is good for memory and brain fog and Ashwagandha which is a natural sedative used for the nervous system. Siberian Ginseng has been purported as well to balance the adrenal system and and to increase mental acuity. Again there are no conclusive studies regarding herbs and supplements in the treatment of adrenal issues so always consult your doctor. Herbs can sometimes interact with other medication and can be just as powerful as prescription medication.
Got Red Bull?
Although the tendency is to crave caffeinated products when one is fatigued, if you are suffering from adrenal fatigue, the opposite is actually recommended. You must reduce refined sugars and completely eliminate caffeine. It is has the opposite effect on someone with adrenal issues because the caffeine and sugar can increase your heart rate and only further burns out your system which is now-as far as your nervous system understands-in a constant heightened state of stress.
Nourish Your Spiritual Self
In addition to diet, focus on spiritual centeredness as well. The more stress you can eliminate, the better. Many naturopaths will suggest meditation in the mornings for at least fifteen minutes. Relaxing your nervous system may help to reactivate the adrenal glands in a nourishing way. You may need to use meditation in conjunction with other conventional therapy but it may, in some cases, help lower stress hormones. Use good sense and always seek the advice of a trusted medical professional. The entirety of this article is intended for informational purposes only. Never substitute this advice for your own sound judgment or that of a physician.
Tags: adrenal gland, adrenal fatigue, balance adrenal, nervous system, adrenal issues