Chronic, long-term stress can result in low adrenal reserve, which is made worse if thyroid hormone production is also low (hypothyroidism). If extreme stress continues long-term, or thyroid deficiency remains untreated, the adrenals are unable to maintain this higher output, and eventually become exhausted. If extreme, physicians will treat this condition with hydrocortisone, but early stages of low adrenal reserve respond well to many forms of self-treatment.
The Stress Factor
The most important thing is to reduce stress – physical, mental, and emotional. Prolonged stress is probably the main cause of adrenal insufficiency (excluding the presence of the most extreme form: Addison’s disease). This is because the adrenals are called upon to release their steroid hormones, especially cortisol, in times of stress – and if this situation remains over a long period of time, the adrenals are unable to maintain levels, they eventually become weakened and underactive.
Signs of adrenal insufficiency include extreme tiredness, especially as the day wears on; slow recovery from minor illnesses such as colds; hypoglycemia (experiencing "highs" and "lows" from sugar-rich foods); “roller-coaster” body temperature, veering between hot and cold; poor nutrient absorption. Other signs include: dark circles under the eyes, patches of darkening skin pigmentation, hair loss, and bowel problems, including IBS (irritable bowel syndrome).
Physical Forms of Help
Any activity that encourages the body to relax will help in relieving the adrenal glands of their continuing burden. Meditation and stretching, through pilates or yoga, has been found to be beneficial. Do not attempt to undertake extreme or high-energy forms of exercise – even aerobics – as this increases stress on the body. Take long walks in pleasant places; daydream; listen to your favourite music – basically, give yourself a break!
Use Your Diet
Stay away from refined carbohydrates, as these create havoc on the blood’s glucose level, and in turn, demand more cortisol from the adrenals, to release glucose stored in the liver. Follow a low-GI diet, eating proteins and foods that digest slowly and release their energy over a longer period of time.
Take Supplements
The adrenal glands rely heavily on the B complex of vitamins. Pantothenic acid (B5) and Pyridoxine (B6) are especially helpful in treating a low adrenal reserve, and can make a difference within days. Take a good B-complex to ensure that the vitamins are taken in the correct proportion to one another. Vitamin C deficiency has been linked to adrenal weakness, so most nutritional therapists suggest taking 1000mg a day. Other recommended supplements include vitamin E (400–800 iu), and calcium with magnesium (taken in a 3:1 ratio). Boron, selenium, manganese, and iron may be useful.
Check your thyroid
Symptoms of adrenal insufficiency are often confused with symptoms of hypothyroidism.
Read more:
Hypothyroidism and the Adrenals
