Adrenal fatigue is an increasingly common problem that is not easy to deal with and, in the long run, can make everyday functioning much more difficult.
Many people are not even aware that they have problems with their adrenal glands, telling themselves that “that is just how they are”. Remember, the first step toward a better quality of life is awareness and knowledge.
What is adrenal fatigue?
The adrenal glands are small areas located just above each kidney. Despite their relatively small size, they play the role of one of the key hormonal centers of the human body. It is worth noting that, to a certain extent, they can also work with the thyroid gland. The adrenal glands are responsible for the production of cortisol, the stress hormone, which is a natural phenomenon. Although excessive secretion of it is not desirable, optimal amounts are useful to us. This hormone is responsible, among other things, for mobilizing glycogen (reserve sugar) stored in the liver when needed.
It is worth mentioning that adrenal fatigue is a contentious issue when it comes to the opinions of the medical community - doctors. After all, the adrenal glands begin to produce cortisol in response to a hormonal signal from the hypothalamus, which reaches them via the pituitary gland (ACTH secretion). On the other hand, many researchers admit that disturbances in the rhythm of cortisol secretion (deviating from normal) are associated with problems affecting the adrenal glands.
Under normal conditions (excluding strictly stressful situations), cortisol should be highest in the morning, while in the evening it should be low - it decreases gradually. In the morning it helps us wake up, and in the evening its low level makes it possible to fall asleep. The rhythm of cortisol secretion is correlated with the secretion of other hormones, such as thyroid hormones or even insulin. It is easy to conclude that disturbances in the daily cortisol rhythm are not beneficial for hormonal balance, negatively affecting the entire body. After all, proper adrenal function is one of the keys to good health.
Where does adrenal fatigue come from?
The main, although general, cause is an improper lifestyle. We live in a constant rush, devoting time to everything we would like to do, and unfortunately a day only has 24 hours. We begin to neglect rest, disrupt our circadian rhythm, and eat “on the run” because there happens to be only a short moment to grab any sandwich at all. Not to mention the daily large dose of stress. Besides, disturbances in the circadian rhythm and melatonin secretion are serious business, although many people underestimate them, for example by sitting late in front of the computer.
What is important is that even one sleepless night can throw the body out of balance, and it may take a week or even longer to return to balance.
It is worth knowing that the intestines also matter in the context of adrenal function. Disturbances
of the bacterial flora and
leaky gut syndrome, as well as the associated inflammation and the possibility of autoaggressive actions. Excessive cortisol secretion means problems with the production of sex hormones, and consequently a lower libido, sexual drive and vigor. If the body uses the necessary substrates to produce the stress hormone, because under highly stressful conditions this is its natural action, they will not be able to be used to produce other important components, such as DHEA or aldosterone.
The pancreas is also stimulated, and thus insulin production. Glucagon is inhibited, and cells become less sensitive to the action of insulin - we fall into
insulin resistance. At this point it is worth noting that IR is a problem with, among other things, an inflammatory basis. Therefore, inflammation and high production of pro-inflammatory cytokines - together with permanent stress - contribute to its development.
We add to this gut problems, an improper diet, disturbances in the circadian rhythm, lack of proper rest, low physical activity and we get an explosive mix. Do you know the habit of “stress eating”? In a more advanced stage, adrenal fatigue may lead to snacking.
Adrenal fatigue – the main causes and symptoms:
- high exposure to stress in the long term,
- an improper diet, including highly processed food,
- low physical activity,
- disturbances in the circadian rhythm (staying up late, shift work, etc.),
- too little sleep and/or poor-quality sleep,
- intestinal dysbiosis and leaky gut,
- inflammation.
What are the most common symptoms and how can adrenal fatigue be recognized?
- Cortisol, which should wake us up in the morning, does not “kick in”, so it is hard for us to wake up, and despite sleeping we feel tired.
- We react much worse in stressful situations, becoming nervous and unpleasant to those around us.
- We notice a much greater level of energy and motivation to act in the evening, when we should actually be preparing the body for the approaching sleep, and thus regeneration.
- Increased caffeine intake, intended to reduce fatigue and stimulate action. Over time, caffeine receptors get “clogged up”, which most often leads to increasing consumption of the drink.
What else?
- lower immunity,
- general weakness and decreased vitality,
- lower libido,
- excessive reaction to stress (e.g. irritability),
- weight gain,
- fatigue immediately after waking up,
- concentration problems and “brain fog”,
- hair loss,
- increased appetite and cravings for sugar,
- excessive craving for salty snacks.
- difficulty falling asleep,
- constipation,
- excessive ageing processes,
- painful periods,
- higher body temperature and discomfort,
- cold feet and hands,
- low blood pressure.
Of course, these are only examples. It is worth knowing what adrenal fatigue involves, and then comparing it with possible causes and symptoms. You should observe your body and try to get to know it. This is a time for reflection and appreciating above all the value of rest and healthy habits - proper lifestyle hygiene is the basis if you care about your health.
