Adrenal dysregulation is one of the most prevalent conditions of our time, and yet it is rarely diagnosed.
You cannot live without your adrenal hormones, and your quality of life depends greatly on how well the adrenal gland functions.
Adrenal dysregulation is one of the most prevalent conditions of our time, and yet it is rarely diagnosed. Unfortunately, the milder forms of hypo- or hyperadrenia are often overlooked or misdiagnosed. The narrow parameters of lab tests do not detect the earlier stages, often referred to as the pre-clinical stage, and as a result, many people suffer needlessly from adrenal fatigue for years.
These glands are vital for maintaining physiological homeostasis by secreting stress hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline. When this equilibrium is disrupted by chronic stress, environmental factors, or pathological situations, it can result in the overproduction or underproduction of these hormones. For example, excess cortisol is frequently associated with chronic stress and increases reactive oxygen species (ROS), resulting in oxidative damage by destroying lipids, proteins, and DNA. Oxidative stress occurs when the body’s antioxidant defense systems cannot neutralize ROS. The increased ROS contributes to inflammation, the underlying cause of most chronic mental and physical diseases. As a result, oxidative stress from adrenal hormone dysregulation represents a major concern in human health.
STRESS AND IMPACT
Stress is a big part of most people’s lives today, and its effects are felt differently by each individual. In the early stages of adrenal compromise, milder symptoms may include digestive issues, poor memory, fatigue, anxiety, insomnia, blood pressure irregularities, decreased immunity, asthma, and hormonal imbalances. In addition, oxidative stress has been linked to inflammatory conditions, such as diabetes, arthritis, neurological disorders, cardiovascular diseases, and even cancer. In the later stages, adrenal compromise can lead to conditions like Cushing’s syndrome or Addison’s disease, which are life-threatening and require long-term medical treatment. Considering that stress-related inflammation is the leading cause of disease, it is vital to support the adrenal glands regularly, especially during periods of prolonged stress.
ADRENAL REVIVAL – HARNESSING THE POWER OF ANTIOXIDANTS
Environmental pollutants, poor lifestyle choices, environmental toxins, and mental and emotional stress all contribute to oxidative stress. Antioxidants play an essential role in preventing oxidative damage by scavenging these free radicals and lowering oxidative stress.
Vitamins C and E, carotenoids, selenium, zinc, coenzyme Q10, grapeseed extract, and resveratrol are examples of powerful antioxidants that are essential in mitigating oxidative stress caused by imbalances in adrenal hormones. The effectiveness of nutritional antioxidants is undeniable.
ADRENAL BOTANICAL BRIGADE
Several adaptogenic herbs can help restore balance to the adrenal glands and reduce the negative effects of stress.
Ashwagandha: Known for increasing stress resistance and reducing anxiety, ashwagandha is traditionally used as a sleep aid, nerve tonic, and athletic support. It also promotes healthy testosterone production in men.
Eleuthero: This herb has anti-stress and anti-inflammatory properties, making it ideal for supporting both mental and physical performance in individuals who are under stress and feeling run down.
Rhodiola: Rich in antioxidants, rhodiola helps alleviate symptoms of stress, such as mental fatigue.
Combined herbal formulas, such as AdrenaSense®, contain these and other important herbs that help prevent and treat stress-induced conditions.
FOOD SOURCES OF ANTIOXIDANTS
To support adrenal health, incorporate antioxidant-rich foods into your diet. Some examples include:
- Fruits: Cranberries, blueberries, blackberries, strawberries, black cherries
- Vegetables: Broccoli, spinach, carrots, cabbage, asparagus, avocados, beetroot, kale, arugula, sweet potatoes, squash, and collard greens
- Other foods: Nuts, whole grains, dark chocolate, and some meats and poultry
STRESS-RELIEVING PRACTICES
Things you can do regularly to reduce the negative effects of stress include a nature walk, exercising, deep breathing, listening to music, or engaging in other activities that you find calming and relaxing.
AN ATTITUDE SHIFT
Studies have shown that people who believe stress adversely affects their health are probably right. Our greatest tool against stress is our ability to choose one thought over another. The Attitude of Gratitude has been linked to better health, sounder sleep, less anxiety and depression, higher long-term satisfaction with life, and kinder behavior toward one another. My advice: Stay grateful and remember to say “thank you” often.
