Adrenal fatigue is becoming increasingly common in western society. It can creep up on us slowly, and stress, busy lifestyles and poor diets have left many of us susceptible.

Adrenal fatigue most often occurs after a period of prolonged stress. Initially when we are stressed our bodies produce stress hormones such as adrenalin and cortisol. This is part of an innate process known as the “fight or flight response” and is designed to make us more alert and physically better enabled to get out of danger quickly if we need to. After long periods of continued stress however, our adrenal glands are unable to keep up with the demand to produce stress hormones, and this is when adrenal fatigue symptoms can set in.

Adrenal fatigue symptoms include:
•Excessive fatigue/exhaustion
•Sleep disorders/insomnia
•Cravings for sugar and refined carbohydrates
•Poor immune system function
•Anxiety/irritability
•Poor digestion
•Poor memory/concentration
•PMS/Menopausal symptoms
•Low libido

As adrenal fatigue progresses, the adrenal glands become depleted and eventually chronic fatigue and depression can set in. Adrenal fatigue symptoms can often go undiagnosed, and sufferers may be given medications such as antidepressants, which in the long term do not resolve the problem.

But there is good news for those suffering from adrenal fatigue symptoms. The adrenals can usually be slowly restored back to health with a few simple steps. An adrenal fatigue diet is the first priority, followed by supplements and herbs to nourish and rebuild the adrenal glands, and of course, relaxation and stress relief strategies need to be in place to stop the problem from recurring.

An adrenal fatigue diet consists of lots of whole foods and very few processed foods. Whole grains, protein foods and lots of fresh fruit and vegetables make up most of the diet. What is most important in this diet, however, is what is eliminated. Refined foods (especially refined carbohydrates), sugar, caffeine and alcohol are best avoided as they place extra stress on the adrenal glands.

Supplements are an important part of recovery from adrenal fatigue, as they help to rebuild the adrenal glands and nervous system, making us more resilient to future stress. B vitamins and magnesium are the most important nutrients to consider. Herbs such as Siberian ginseng and Withania are adrenal restorative tonics which may be considered to help kick-start adrenal recovery.

Although it can be a long road back to complete adrenal health, there is definitely help available, and even a few small steps can have you feeling a significant improvement. For information on supplements which may assist, click here.