Adrenal Exhaustion

The adrenal glands are situated on the upper surface of each kidney. The three main groups of hormones secreted from the adrenal glands are:

Glucocorticoids, (cortisol/hydrocortisone being the main ones) which have effects on the metabolism and fluid balance. In pathological and pharmacological quantities, they have an anti-inflammatory action and suppress the response of the tissues to injury, delaying healing.

Mineralcorticoids, aldersterone being the main one. Its functions are associated with the maintenance of the electrolyte balance in the body, thus affecting water excretion and retention

Adrenaline and noradrenaline. Secretion of these hormones is closely related to nervous stimulation. Noradrenaline is vital for the maintenance of blood pressure and adrenaline is associated with the fight or flight response, which prepares the body in times of severe stress or danger.

The release of these hormones, in particular adrenaline, is closely linked with the stress reaction of the body which is designed to maximise survival chances in life threatening situations. Fortunately, in modern life these serious conditions rarely arise, but the body responds in a similar way when faced with stressful situations such as arguments, job interviews or traffic jams. Over-use of stimulants such as coffee, tea, chocolate and cigarettes coupled with periods of unmanaged stress can lead to adrenal exhaustion. The body channels energy into dealing with the stressor, thus slowing down digestion, maintenance and repair, leading to a number of symptoms and diseases associated with the digestive system and upsetting the hormone balance.

There follows a list of products that clients have reported success against this health challenge with. For personalised advice, please email or call 01730 233 414.

Additional Notes

The need for GLA, Vitamin C and Vitamin B5 increases during and after periods of either severe stress or long term low level stress. Obviously supplementing these particular vitamins is going to contribute to healthy adrenal glands but a long term strategy for coping with stress is essential.

We all experience stress differently. What may be stressful for one person may be fun for another. Each individual needs to find the best way of dealing with stress to suit their own personality and lifestyle. Stress management techniques need to be explored for their suitability and may include learning to “let go” and to delegate responsibility or the complete opposite by taking more control. Sometimes seeking professional help can be very beneficial in exploring what is the best method for you. Some considerations for healthy adrenal function may include:

Relaxation training: Meditation, Yoga, Muscle Relaxation, Massage
Lifestyle: Diet, healthy and balanced and reducing articifical stimulants, exercise, give up smoking.