Treatment of Adrenal Fatigue
Basics
In general, any kind of stress damages the adrenal glands. A stressor is everything that challenges us and forces the organism to make adjustments. For example, changes in the life situation, changes in diet, chemicals, medicines, infections etc., but also sleep deficit is a severe stressor. On the other hand, good nutrition, security and stability, rest, adequate sleep, rest and relaxation are helpful.
So you should avoid everything that unnecessarily stresses you. It is important to eat as few carbohydrates as possible (especially sugars) but to eat many proteins (amino acids!) and fats (not vegetable oil). Harmful are stimulating substances such as caffeine - therefore, coffee and tea should be avoided - or even alcohol and cigarettes. Allergens are also strong stressors that should be avoided as far as possible. Often mold fungi are a considerable stress factor, but they can hardly be avoided.
Try to reduce as much stress as possible and learn to minimize negative emotions (such as fear, guilt, anger). Sufficient sleep is important. Excessive training, work or even celebrations stresses the adrenal glands.
Proceeding
Adrenal fatigue is reversible. This means that the adrenal glands can recover and the metabolism can normalize. Be aware that it can take 6 months to 2 years to restore the original situation. Important points are:
1. to reduce everyday stress. Family, relationship or financial problems, etc. should be normalized as far as possible. Eliminate all the stressors you can.
2. Sleep is another important point. It is best to go to bed before 10 pm (22:00). The adrenal glands have to work intensively between 11 pm and 1 am (23:00 and 01:00 h). Save them this burden and if possible try to sleep until 08:30, 09:00. Turn off the alarm clock when you can afford it. The adrenal glands perform heavy work between 1 pm and 1 am (23:00 and 01:00) to regenerate the body. In addition, the cortisol level rises sharply in the morning between 06:00 and 08:00 to wake us up.
If Adrenal Fatigue has existed for a long time and the adrenal glands are exhausted, we are tired and it is very difficult to wake up at all in the morning. Early awakening or getting up early puts the adrenal glands under pressure and forces them to produce more cortisol during severe exhaustion. Healthy and enough sleep is a prerequisite for a regeneration of the adrenals and the body. In the night it collects forces for the stress of the new day. It is helpful to sleep in a room as dark as possible to increase melatonin production.
Often, however, sleep disturbances do not disappear so easily. Waking up regularly in the middle of the night (03:30, 04:30 hrs) with difficulties to fall asleep again are signs of considerable stress. Below we will discuss what you can do about it.
3. Avoid as mentioned coffee and tea and all that includes caffeine. Reduces alcohol and cigarettes. Television and computer work can also cause problems. People who are photosensible should avoid it from 8 pm (20:00). In addition, it can prevent melatonin levels from rising and inducing sleep.
4. Light physical exercise also reduces stress. Do not overload yourself. This is individuelly different. 2 x 10 minutes may be sufficient at the beginning.
5. Food supplement.
A very important step is to provide the body with sufficient nutrients to allow repairs. It is usually urgently necessary to intervene here. Basic nutrients for functioning adrenal glands are:
- A healthy, biological and rich but low allergenic diet. A balanced diet with many vitamins, minerals and trace elements is essential (see below for details).
- B vitamins. A complete B vitamin complex is good for cell energy. Vitamin B5 is particularly important.
- Vitamin C. Best with bioflavonoids for optimal utilization. It acts as antioxidant and supports the adrenal glands in their work.
- Amino acids. Often there are problems with the digestion of proteins. The adrenal glands are very dependent on amino acids. They can be spread throughout the day.
- Sea-salt. This helps to increase blood pressure and relieve the adrenal glands. A deficiency of aldosterone is associated with the exhausted glands. Good is it a teaspoon morning with water or (vegetable) juice to drink (or flush down). Unrefined sea salt or crystal salt is best.
Nutritional Supplements
To reverse Adrenal Fatigue, it is necessary to provide the body with sufficient nutrients and support it during regeneration. As a result, the symptoms of low metabolic energy can be reduced or even completely disappear.
The following list lists the most important nutrients in approximately relevant order. This can, of course, vary from person to person, and some people will perhaps need it all. In any case, the ideal therapy and dosage should be agreed with a doctor or a naturopath. What is good for one can harm the other.
The vitamin B complex supports the function of the adrenal system as well as the entire metabolism. The B vitamins help in energy production. This product is highly concentrated, so one capsule daily is usually sufficient. It should not be taken too late, as it could affect sleep. Sensitive persons can also begin with the B50 complex. Some people will feel better, others need a few days or need additional support.
Vitamin B5 Vitamin B5
Pantothenic acid (B5) is particularly important for the function of the adrenal glands, as most hormones need coenzyme-A (made from vitamin B5) for their production. Dosage: 900 - 1500 mg.
Since weak adrenal glands are often associated with poor protein utilization and these are built up from amino acids, it is helpful to supplement a complete mix. It is appropriate to take the amino acid mixture spread over the day (or morning and evening). The dose is 5-10 grams. If more than 5 grams are taken, there should be no problems with the kidneys. If in doubt, a doctor should be consulted. Proteins seem to assist the adrenal glands, while carbohydrates (sugars) weaken them.
Adrenal tissue
A very effective product especially at the beginning of the treatment is Cytozyme AD. It contains hormoneless adrenal tissue of newborn calves. There are all the raw materials available to rebuild and support the adrenal glands. The production of the adrenal cortex is stimulated. The typical dosage is 1-2 tablets 3x daily. The intake can shorten the regeneration of the adrenal glands and significantly accelerate improvement. It is possible to detect the effect after only a few (about 4) days and notice clearly when the intake is forgotten.
Pregnenolone is a precursor to many hormones that are formed in the adrenal glands. It is sometimes referred to as the 'primordial hormone'. It acts as a starting material in the metabolic pathway and supports a higher cortisol output. The dose is usually 25-50 mg best around late afternoon. The product is not available in Germany (or only with prescription) but can be imported.
Vitamin C Vitamin C 1000mg with bioflavonoids
Vitamin C also supports the function of the adrenal glands and works best with bioflavonoids. These increase the efficiency period. The individual tolerance threshold is different. Some people tolerate only 500 mg per day, while others can easily tolerate up to 15-20 grams. A too high dose is noticeable with diarrhea. You can try to approach your personal tolerance threshold. Normally a quantity of 1-3 g / day is recommended. The dose should be spread throughout the day. Also useful are 100-200 mg of fat-soluble vitamin C (ascobyl palmitate).
These three amino acids can be helpful. Proline (500 mg) is involved in the development of connective tissue. Weak adrenal glands often accompany weak connective tissue. What is good for the connective tissue also helps the adrenals. In heavier cases, lysine (1-2 g) and glutamine (1-5 g) may be indicated.
5-HTP, Griffonia5-HTP Griffonia (5-hydroxy-tryptophan)
5-HTP (5-Hydroxtryptophan) can be considered as a substitute for sleep disorders. This is a precursor of the neurotransmitter serotonin, which in turn can be metabolized into melatonin. It should not be taken with antidepressants. It is not compatible with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI) such as fluctin or Prozac. The interactions are very dangerous. An initial dose is 50 mg. After three days, a further 50 mg can be increased if no sleep can be achieved. 5-HTP increases the serotonin level and thus also mood. It works relaxing and balancing. If you feel sleepy in the morning you can reduce the dose again or take it earlier. Usually 5-HTP is taken in the evening. A dose of 500 mg should not be exceeded and slowly increased. The product is not for sale in Germany. It is available through prescription or can be imported. In the United States and Great Britain, you can buy it (as well as melatonin) in the supermarket. (Alternatively, Griffonia extract or tryptophan can be taken from which 5-HTP can be formed, but it is significantly less effective and requires higher dosages)
Magnesium Magnesium Citrate 200mgMagnesium Citrate
Magnesium can help with sleep problems. In the evening before going to sleep, you can dissolve some powder (1/2 teaspoon) in warm water or juice. Then it tastes (properly diluted) not bad and has a soothing effect. Pure magnesium powder (magnesium citrate) from the pharmacy is favorable. It is used as the drug base and can be e.g. As 250 g packets. A good dose is 500 mg. A very good intake is provided by magnesiumorotate, which simultaneously supports and repairs the mitochondria.
Licorice root can regulate sleep too. Licorice Root, known from licorice, helps to harmonize the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis and stimulates the adrenal glands. It acts detoxifying, cramping, tonic and supports digestion.
Cordyceps vital mushroom
This is a Chinese mushroom that is used to support the adrenal glands.
7-keto-DHEA (or DHEA) 7 Keto DHEA
At low DHEA levels one can take 10-25 mg 7-keto-DHEA in the morning. It has the advantage, in contrast to the DHEA, that it is not converted into sex hormones. It thus has all the advantages of DHEA without its side effects. Again, this metabolic product is hardly available in Germany.
GABA Gaba
Gamma-aminobutyric acid has a soothing, anxiety-dissolving effect. It acts on the same receptors (GABA receptors), which also affects valium. It is a natural substance, the dosage is normally 500mg 2-3x daily. Often a capsule is enough in the morning and in the evening.
Vitamin E Vitamin E 400 I.E.
Vitamin E is another important nutrient for the adrenal glands. He plays in min. Six enzyme reactions of the adrenal cascade. It is a powerful antioxidant. A natural, extremely rich source of high-quality vitamin E is found in wheat germ oil.
Digestive Enzymes Enzymes
Many people with Adrenal Fatigue have a bad digestion and too little stomach acid. Digestion enzymes can help. Good is often Slippery Elm and to regularly drink plenty of water. Heartburn does not always mean you have too much gastric acid, it can also be a deficiency. That would have to be clarified with a doctor.
MSM MSM Sulfur
MSM provides sulfur and supports the skin, nails, bones and ligaments as well as the connective tissue. It acts detoxifying. The dose is about 2-3 grams.
Essential Fatty Acids Omega-3-6-9
The body can not produce essential fatty acids by itself. They are important for healing processes and can be supplemented. High-quality non-vegetable fats are also favorable. Eggs and free-ranging, happy chickens are good resources.
Cortisone
In severe cases, it may be appropriate to treat with low amounts of cortisone (low-dose). Particularly good is natural hydrocortisone (25-50 mg) or alternatively cortisone acetate (10-20 mg). These small doses are safe and ensure rapid relief of the adrenal glands, which can soon recover. However, it can only be prescribed by a doctor because cortisone is a prescription drug. Unfortunately, very few physicians know how to treat Adrenal Fatigue. Maybe there is a therapist near you.
- Do not forget to swallow a Tps sea salt in the morning. -
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Nutrition
It is important not to leave out breakfast in the morning. Since the cortisol level is highest between 06:00 and 08:00, we often do not feel hungry. The cortisol increases glucogenesis in the liver, which increases glucose. When the cortisol level is lowered, the adrenal glands are stimulated to secrete the blood glucose level (see hypoglycemia). Therefore, as soon as you get up, something should be eaten, even if it is only a small snack.
Lunch and dinner should not be too late. Helpfull are small, high-quality snacks served inbetween (around 14: 00-15: 00) and a diet with a low glycemic index (so-called LOGI diet). These are, above all, foods that do not burden the blood glucose mechanism.
In the long term an incorrect diet (lots of sugar, soft drinks, etc.) can affect insulin and adrenal function and can lead to hypoglycemia particularly at night wich can menifest itslef with nightmares, sweating and anxiety. During the day the condition leads to fatigue, dizziness and vertigo.
In general, people with adrenal fatigue need a balanced diet plan with a good balance of proteins, fats and carbohydrates. The foods should have a low glycemic index and the bulk of it should consist of raw food. Fruit juices are not suitable and also fruits should be reduced, especially particularly sweet ones such as e.g. melons. Also bananas, dates, fig raisins and grapefruit should be consumed little, since they contain much potassium. (Organic) fruits such as cherries, mangoes, papayas, apples and grapes are allowed. Vegetables are very good, those with much sodium like zucchini, spinach, celery, olives etc. are recommended.
High-quality proteins and fats are very important. Good resources are eggs, quality fish and meat. For vegetarians it is more difficult and they have to have eggs in their diet, eat lots of beans and whole grain cereals. Otherwise, nuts are an excellent choice as they contain many important fatty acids. These are an ingredient for cholesterol, which acts as a precursor to many adrenal hormones. You can put the nuts in water overnight and be sure that they are free from rancid oil. It aggravates the symptoms of Adrenal Fatigue and should be avoided at all costs. Peanuts are not ideal (better: cashew, almonds, walnuts, hazelnuts, chestnuts etc.).
Other general tips are:
- Breakfast before 10:00.
- Combine whole grain products generously with proteins and fats.
- Whole fruits are allowed except bananas, figs and all kinds of melons.
- 25% whole grain products, 35% vegetables (half of it raw), 15% nuts, beans and kernels, 10% animal products, 10 good fats, 5% fruits.
- Always use sea or crystal salt.
- Drink 1/2 - 1 teaspoon sea salt in a drink in the morning.
- Take 5-6 small meals to you, instead of three large ones.
- Try a protein- and fat-rich snack before going to bed when you wake up frequently at night. Take a carbohydrate snack if you can sleep badly.
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Salt Balance
If the adrenal glands are exhausted, there is usually a disturbance of the water and salt balance. This is regulated by the kidneys and adrenal glands to control the blood pressure. In the adrenal cortex, the substance aldosterone is formed. It causes the kidneys to resorb sodium from the primary urine. In the human body the rule applies: 'Wherever sodium goes, water follows.' This also leads to an increased retention of water. The volume in the vessels increases and the blood pressure increases. In a state of adrenal fatigue sufficient aldosterone can't be formed no longer. The body loses sodium and water - it dehydrates. At the same time, potassium leaves the cells to keep the sodium-potassium balance constant. This is not successful, resulting in an increased ratio of potassium : sodium, which in turn causes a number of other problems.
For this reason, it is important to regularly consume 1/2 - 1 teaspoon sea salt to relieve the adrenal glands. It is appropriate to dilute vegetable juice with water and to 'garnish' with the salt. This helps to regulate the water balance of the body. In addition, kelp (an algae species) can be spread over it. It is very rich in sodium which can easily be absorbed and also contains some potassium.
As described, a large amount of aldosterone increases blood pressure while a deficiency leads to low blood pressure. There is no negative feedback for aldosterone, such as e.g. for cortisol. However, the sensitivity of the aldosterone receptors can decrease. But the autonomic nervous system and adrenaline also influence the blood pressure. If the pressure sensors of the vessels register an increased volume, they can cause the veins to relax. This helps to regulate the blood pressure constantly. In phases of stress the concentration of adrenaline increases. It causes a constriction of the vessels to ensure adequate blood flow to the brain in times of danger.
In the early stages of adrenal fatigue, blood pressure can usually still be well regulated. The mechanisms play together to maintain a constant pressure. If the stress persists, aldosterone and adrenaline remain high and the body can not compensate for this in the long run. The blood pressure rises. It is often observed that stressed people have high blood pressure. In the further stages of adrenal fatigue, the adrenal glands are exhausted. Therefore, less aldosterone and adrenaline are produced. The body loses water, the blood pressure is lowered and the cells lose sodium.
The water balance should be balanced again. Care must be taken to ensure that this is always done with sufficient sodium. Otherwise, the sodium concentration would be further diluted and a dangerous situation would arise. Sportsdrinks, e.g. are not suitable since they were designed for people with sufficient sodium. They contain much potassium and hardly sodium.
Few people have high blood pressure and adrenal fatigue. They should balance their water balance very carefully and under medical supervision.
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