The adrenal fatigue theory suggests that prolonged exposure to stress could drain the adrenals leading to a low cortisol state. The adrenal depletion would cause brain fog, low energy, depressive mood, salt and sweet cravings, lightheadedness, and other vague symptoms.
Too little cortisol may be due to a problem in the pituitary gland or the adrenal gland (Addison's disease). The onset of symptoms is often very gradual. Symptoms may include fatigue, dizziness (especially upon standing), weight loss, muscle weakness, mood changes and the darkening of regions of the skin.
Magnesium is a mineral your body needs to stay healthy, and research shows magnesium may play a role in supporting normal stress response in the body, including management of cortisol response. “It appears that high intake of magnesium (350 milligrams a day) can lower cortisol levels,” explains Azzaro.
Ginkgo is a popular supplement for brain health and cognitive performance. Besides improving brain function, ginkgo has also been found to reduce blood pressure and cortisol levels, reducing stress.
Primary adrenal insufficiency: Something directly affects adrenal gland function, leading to decreased cortisol production. Secondary adrenal insufficiency: The pituitary gland fails to secrete enough of the hormone ACTH—the hormone that tells the adrenal glands how much cortisol is needed.
“Eating foods such as processed meats, high sugar foods, caffeine and alcohol, which provide little nutritional value, have been associated with more psychiatric symptoms and can increase cortisol levels—our primary hormone responsible for stress,” she said.
Vitamin B5, Vitamin C, and Magnesium are three key nutrients that help to support adrenal hormone production, electrolyte balance (along with potassium) and enzyme reactions. It also helps to replace these key nutrients when lost under chronic stress.
Various factors can cause high cortisol levels. But the biggest culprits on the list are sleep insufficiency, chronic stress, circadian misalignment, high-intensity exercise or overtraining and certain medical conditions like Cushing's disease.
The adrenal glands then don't make enough cortisol. Mild symptoms may be seen only when a person is under physical stress. Other symptoms may include weakness, fatigue, and weight loss. You will need to take hormones to replace those that the adrenal glands are not making.
People who lack cortisol must take their cortisol replacement medication on a regular basis, and when they are sick or injured, they must take extra cortisol replacement to prevent adrenal crisis. When there is not enough cortisol, adrenal crisis can occur and may rapidly lead to death.
If you're looking to reduce adrenal stomach fat, you'll want to make sure your diet includes plenty of protein and healthy fats as well as foods that are high in: Vitamin B. Vitamin C. Vitamin D.
The suggested treatments for healthy adrenal function are a diet low in sugar, caffeine, and junk food, and “targeted nutritional supplementation” that includes vitamins and minerals: Vitamins B5, B6, and B12. Vitamin C. Magnesium.
Adrenal fatigue isn't an accepted medical diagnosis. It is a lay term applied to a collection of nonspecific symptoms, such as body aches, fatigue, nervousness, sleep disturbances and digestive problems. Your adrenal glands produce a variety of hormones that are essential to life.
However, several at-home cortisol tests are available to purchase. A person can take these tests at home by providing a urine, blood, or saliva sample. Once a lab analyzes the test, people usually receive their results within a few days. Individuals should follow up on any test results with a healthcare professional.
Gastroenteritis and SIADH are the most frequent reported misdiagnosis in cases of AI.
Taking in adequate amounts of Vitamin B12 For Stress can help reduce stress by promoting healthy nervous system function. When the nervous system is functioning properly, the adrenal glands do not secrete as much cortisol—the hormone produced during times of stress that causes “fight or flight” response.
There is reason to believe that the dietary intake of vitamins, in particular the B-vitamins including B6 (pyridoxine), B12 (cobalamin/cyanocobalamin) and B9 (folate) may also influence patterns of diurnal cortisol secretion.
I recommend magnesium glycinate or malate.