There is a lot of talk about adrenal fatigue. Is it physical, emotional or is it even a real issue at all? There are a lot of different opinions and the verdict is still out but I would say that all three are true. There is no doubt that more information is coming but this will get you started:
Symptoms of adrenal fatigue:
- Fatigue (obviously)
- Higher energy levels in the evening
- Weak immune system
- Craving for salty foods
- Dark circles under the eyes
- Dizziness
- Dry skin
- Frequent urination
- Loss of muscle tone
- Low blood pressure
- Low blood sugar
- Low sex drive
- Lower back pain
- Weight gain
Before you assume you have adrenal fatigue you should know these symptoms are the same for a variety of things including:
- Not eating enough generally
- Not eating frequently enough
- Not eating enough protein
- Not eating enough carbs
- Not getting enough salt
- Not getting enough sleep
- Not getting enough water
- Long exercise sessions (over an hour)
Also:
- People who are on vegan, raw foods, or low carb diets are more susceptible to adrenal fatigue
- Excessive amounts of time on electronic devices including cell phones, computers and television has been shown to cause or exacerbate adrenal fatigue and create other physical and psychological issues.
Without medical tests it is hard to know if you have adrenal fatigue. Fortunately these symptoms can typically be corrected by the same life style changes whether it is adrenal fatigue or many other causes. Try the following:
- Make sure you are eating enough and frequently. Do not go more than three hours without eating.
- Never skip breakfast and make sure it is a high protein meal.
- Get plenty of protein. Minimum of 15 grams per meal. Males and females that exercise hard need 20 – 30.
- Get complex carbs with each meal in addition to vegetables.
- Salt your food. If you are not eating processed foods you can salt your food liberally without health risks. If you do have adrenal fatigue you need that salt. Use sea salt.
- Do not consume processed sugar.
- Do not consume alcohol or caffeine.
- Get enough sleep. Make it a priority.
- Cut out recreational screen time. That includes cellphones, TV and Netflix.
If any of us did these things faithfully we would have more energy. If you truly have adrenal fatigue you should see some improvements in 1 – 3 months on this regimen.
Resources you may be interested in:
http://mcvitamins.com/adrenal-exhaustion.htm