Adrenal Support
The adrenal glands are two glands that sit at the top of the kidneys and are part of the endocrine system. They produce aldosterone, cortisol, androgens and other sex hormones. Aldosterone is key in increasing reabsorption of sodium from the kidneys and the loss of potassium in the urine.
The adrenals are the center of the body’s stress response system, which is why you’ll see the adrenal system mentioned hand in hand with stress. When our bodies respond to stress (physical, emotional, and psychological) it releases cortisol. Stress triggers a cascade of responses by the hypothalamus and anterior pituitary which causes the adrenal cortex to release cortisol. When the sympathetic system is triggered the adrenals release epinephrine, norepinephrine, and cortisol.
Adrenal fatigue is not well accepted in the allopathic world, but it is believed that when someone deals with chronic stress the adrenals cannot keep up with the stress on the body. This ongoing stress can cause high levels of cortisol.
It is estimated that 75% to 90% of human disease is related to stress and inflammation, including cardiovascular and metabolic diseases and neurodegenerative disorders. Chronic stress also can weaken our immune systems.
Normal patterns of cortisol fluctuation show the lowest levels at 12am-1am and highest around 6am-8am. When looking at the adrenal system it may also be helpful to look at a thyroid panel, CBC w/ differential, ferritin, CMP, magnesium, B12 and zinc.
The first step in supporting the adrenal system is managing stress levels.
Adrenal Cocktails will often be recommended to help support the adrenals by keeping key minerals/vitamins in check like Vitamin C, Potassium, and Sodium. It is also important to make sure there is a good balance between Potassium and Sodium. The concept behind the cocktail is consuming it at key times of the day like 10am and 2pm when a body’s supply of adrenal hormones naturally run low and you feel a bit more sluggish. It is also crucial that diet is balanced. Also, be mindful of caffeine, and alcohol intake. Adequate magnesium intake is also crucial.
As always start with the basics.
CLICK HERE FOR ADRENAL COCKTAIL INGREDIENT SOURCING
*not medical advice