Endocrine Profile: The Adrenal Glands

Adrenaline.

This is probably what you think of when you hear the term “adrenal glands” – the hormone which is responsible for revving us up, and getting our heart pumping.

But these glands are responsible for so much more than this.

And when they aren’t working properly, we might need to see a naturopathic doctor for chronic fatigue to start feeling like ourselves again.

Keep reading to learn more about the role of these important glands in your body.

Recap: What Is An Endocrine Gland?

If you read my last article on the pancreas , you might remember that an endocrine gland is one which produces hormones and distributes them to the bloodstream.

The endocrine system is responsible for a wide range of functions, including metabolism, growth, mood, and reproduction.

Some of the other glands that make up your endocrine system include your thyroid and parathyroid, pituitary gland, pineal gland, hypothalamus, sex organs, and of course, the pancreas.

Where Are Your Adrenal Glands?

Your adrenal glands are located on top of your kidneys and consist of two separate sections.

The outer section of the gland is called the adrenal cortex and the internal portion of the gland is called the adrenal medulla.

What Do Your Adrenal Glands Do?

The two sections of the adrenal glands have very different functions.

The adrenal cortex produces hormones which are required for life – hydrocortisone (cortisol) and corticosterone.

Hydrocortisone controls the body’s conversion of carbohydrates, fats, and protein to energy. It also acts as an anti-inflammatory and is instrumental in the body’s response to stress. In humans, corticosterone plays a minor role in the stress response.

It also produces aldosterone which controls blood pressure and the body’s fluid balance.

Hormones produced in the adrenal medulla are also very important.

These are epinephrine and norepinephrine which are responsible for the “fight or flight” response which occurs when you face a stressful situation.

Epinephrine (also known as adrenaline) causes your heart rate to increase and blood sugar to spike.

Norepinephrine works alongside epinephrine – it can cause blood vessels to narrow, resulting in high blood pressure.

Common Illnesses Of The Adrenal Glands

There are a number of diseases which can affect the adrenal glands.

Some of these include:

● Congenital adrenal hyperplasia: a genetic disorder which is defined by low cortisol levels.
● Cushing’s syndrome: characterized by an overproduction of cortisol
● Addison’s disease: occurs when the adrenal cortex does not produce enough cortisol
● Adrenal cancer: this form of cancer is rare, however when it does occur it tends to be very aggressive.

Adrenal Fatigue

An adrenal disease is not always required for the adrenal glands to malfunction.

The term “adrenal fatigue” is sometimes used to describe a condition wherein the adrenal glands don’t perform to their full ability, and hormone production is slowed.

People who have been under chronic stress, or have had respiratory infections such as bronchitis, pneumonia, or influenza are at a greater risk of developing adrenal fatigue.

The main function of the adrenal glands is to help the body respond to stress. Because of this, adrenal fatigue can result in feelings of not being able to sufficiently cope with stressful situations.

Symptoms Of Adrenal Fatigue

Individuals suffering from adrenal fatigue may complain of feeling generally unwell, and tired.

Due to the wide range of functions adrenal hormones play in the body, every case of adrenal fatigue will look a little different.

Some common symptoms include:

● Fatigue
● Feeling agitated, but tired at the same time
● Not feeling able to handle stress
● Cravings for salty foods
● Weakened immune system
● Not feeling refreshed, even after sleeping

Causes Of Adrenal Fatigue

It is unknown exactly what causes adrenal fatigue, however the main theory is that the cause is chronic stress.

When someone undergoes prolonged periods of cognitive, emotional, or physical stress it can lead to adrenal fatigue.

This theory states, when the adrenal glands are unable to keep pace with a constant need to produce the “fight-or-flight” hormones, then adrenal fatigue can occur.

People at higher risk include single parents, shift workers, those with drug or alcohol dependence, and people with high stress at work.

Adrenal Fatigue Diet

If you are suffering from adrenal fatigue, you may be able to manage it through diet and nutrition.

The adrenal fatigue diet was designed to encourage:

● The functioning of the adrenal glands
● Decreased stress levels
● Healthy blood pressure
● The presence of healthy nutrients in the body.

Its goal is to increase energy levels and stop your body from depleting stored nutrients.

If you’re attempting this diet, it’s a good idea to avoid refined and processed sugar, and unhealthy trans fats.

It’s also recommended to increase the amount of vegetables in your diet, which will ensure you are getting plenty of vitamins and minerals.

Foods included in the adrenal fatigue diet include:

● Fish
● Eggs
● Lean meats
● Nuts and legumes
● Whole grains
● Dairy
● Fruit – preferable low in sugar
● Moderate amounts of sea salt
● Healthy fats (avocado, olive oil)

Proper hydration is also extremely important, with this diet and at any other time.

Book an Appointment with Nardini Naturopathic

Are you suffering from fatigue, and you can’t pinpoint why?

Perhaps you’ve been under a period of increased stress, and its effects are taking their toll on your body.

You might be suffering from adrenal fatigue – or perhaps chronic fatigue due to other causes such as iron deficiency or other hormonal imbalances.

Whatever the issue, Nardini Naturopathic can help.

I’ll help you get to the root of your symptoms and design a treatment plan to help get you back on track.

Book an appointment with me, Dr. Pat Nardini, today.