By Craig Copperfield

Those who suffer from an adrenal fatigue disorder know how life-altering it can be. Everyone knows what it's like to feel exhausted for days on end, to experience insomnia, or to feel overwhelmed by the stresses of everyday living, but for those living with a fatigue disorder, these and other symptoms take over their lives, profoundly affecting basic quality of living.

Diet plays a major part in causing adrenal fatigue as eating too much sugar and refined, or ground, carbohydrates, makes the body release too much insulin from sudden spikes in the body's processing of sugar. Blood sugar rises too quickly as the sugar is suddenly released into the bloodstream. Because the body then releases too much insulin to combat this sudden assault, the sugar is then brought down too quickly, therefore causing one to feel sleepy or lethargic. Processed foods in general should be avoided if at all possible.

Common symptoms include:

• Chronic fatigue
• Insomnia
• Anxiety
• Low Stamina
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome
• Depression
• Sensitivity to Cold

Because other medical conditions can cause many of the same symptoms, such as hypothyroidism, it is very important to see an adrenal fatigue doctor, one who is familiar with the disorder and knows how to treat it successfully.

Along with diet, stress can lower the body's defenses, leading to serious physical symptoms of a chronic fatigue condition. Some treatments for fatigue disorders include changes in diet which include cutting out processed foods, sugar, and caffeine, drinking more water and staying away from sodas and certain juices that actually act as diuretics, and learning stress-relieving techniques. Supplements such as vitamin C and a multi-vitamin can help to ensure the body is getting enough nutrients, as eating right is not always possible. For those who need more help, there are many supplements made specifically for addressing adrenal fatigue disorders, as well.

Fatigue disorders can interfere with one's ability to enjoy life to its fullest, so seeking help is the first step in taking life by the horns and enjoying it once again.

For more information on adrenal fatigue disorders or to locate and contact a adrenal fatigue doctor visit Holtorfmed.com

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By Corinne Bridgewater

If fatigue has taken a hold of you and you have ruled out other illnesses like fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome then you may have adrenal fatigue. It is estimated that 70% of all people have it. Fatigue is a sign of stress and stress as well all know leads to some major medical issues including heart problems.

Four key steps to treating adrenal fatigue

One- Get more sleep and relaxation

We are in a society that is busy and fast paced. We have little time or more simply we make little time to relax. We do not sleep well or long enough and we rarely take and "me" time. All this fast paced stuff only increases your stress level and puts more and more demand on our adrenal glands. The hormones just can not pump out enough to deal with the level of stress we are trying to. As most of our organs need time to regroup and recover so do our adrenal glands. We must learn to give them time to recover.

The job of the adrenal glands is to keep our hormone levels at the proper amount. They are known as the anti stress hormones, but they can only do their job if allowed the proper amount of time to rest and recover. Science says this amount is 8-9 hours a night for it to be able to function properly during the day when called upon.

Not only do our everyday routines place stress on our bodies but to a great degree on our emotions and minds too. If you do not allow your minds to distress then your life will stress out and you will become severely fatigued. If you think being tired at the end of the day is bad, just wait until you are tired out after getting up in the morning.

You can see how important it is when you realize that because of medically studies that the state employments departments make all employers give their employees recommended breaks each shift. This is because they found that allowing the worker to rest, their energies are recovered and they can work more efficiently.

Two- Work on reducing stress in your life

Wikipedia defines stress as a term that refers to the consequence of the failure of an organism - human or animal - to respond appropriately to emotional or physical threats, whether actual or imagined.

It is obvious that in America today it is virtually impossible to live a life that is totally stress free. It is a fact of life that stress is life, our goal has got to be to find ways to reduce the stress. Sounds simple when you write it, but it really is a rather difficult thing to do. Especially since by the time you need to reduce it, it is already pretty much consuming you.

There is a stress hormone called cortisol that is released by the adrenal glands to help us cope with and then to recover from stress. This is the hormone that is best known as the "flight or fight" response hormone. It acts just like adrenaline. The difference is that adrenaline is short acting to get us out of danger; cortisol is the long term hormone that allows up the energy to perform normal tasks.

When are limited supply of cortisol is used up and we do not allow our bodies times to recover that is when we start having fatigue symptoms. There are things each day you can do to relieve the stress in your life. First off, take time to unwind everyday. A few minutes here and there is all it takes. Try to not get upset over everything and pick your battles. Do not stress over problems you can not change. Do not argue over politics and religion and things that rile you up but really go no where. If you are upset all the time then your stress level is too high all the time.

Besides taking time out to relax, do something with that time that you will enjoy. Do a hobby, go for a relaxing walk, engage in some activity that destresses you.

Three- Take the needed vitamins, minerals and supplements that will help your body

A good multi vitamin will help your body handle stress. There are even companies that make formulas geared to "stress". They will have additions of minerals that help the body's immunities and to recover from stressful situations.

Some of the more important vitamins to take for adrenal fatigue are B5, B6, B12 and Vitamin C. The important minerals seem to be magnesium and zinc. Natural supplements are licorice, DHEA and Echinacea

Four- Try regular exercise

Our bodies are made to move. So exercise is a vital component to strengthening the body. Science shows that with regular exercise, the hormones in our body are circulated better and therefore metabolize easier. Cortisol, the main stress hormone also regulates our blood sugar and is one reason that exercise helps in the process.

When you first decide to exercise do not go hog wild and run a marathon. It is important that you build your tolerance up slowly. If you overdo it you will put your recovery back. So remember to pace yourself and do not engage in competitive sports. Start out by walking, it's a good exercise that is easy on your body and yet allows you to build up to walking more and more and thus getting stronger. When you are stronger then you can think of jogging or speed walking. Start with 20 minutes three times a week and increase to five times a week before increasing the time.

If you incorporate just these four steps into your personal adrenal fatigue routine then you will see noteworthy advancement of health for most of the symptoms. These simple changes in your life will enable you to treat and live with adrenal fatigue.

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Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Corinne_Bridgewater

By Julie Winterton

In these difficult times, where talks of recession make us nervous and fear for our jobs, or money issues are keeping us awake at night, have you noticed that your health is suffering?

Does life seem to be a little bit harder for you than it does for everyone else? Do you wonder where all your energy has gone? Do you feel tired during the day, but then can't get to sleep till late at night? Have you found that you have recurring coughs & colds that seem to last for weeks at a time? Do you need that extra cup of coffee just to get you going in the morning, or keep you going through the day?

Adrenal Fatigue is the modern ill-understood syndrome that affects many of us to various degrees, yet it is little understood or even heard of for the majority. So what is it? And what can you do about it?

Stress, be it emotional, physical, environmental, death of a loved one, loss of job etc, poor sleep, nutritional (poor diet or over consumption of caffeine and other food stressors), illness & injury, or extreme exertion with little allowance for recovery, can stimulate an adrenal hormonal cascade within the body that triggers the release of Cortisol.

Cortisol, Stress & Adrenal Fatigue

Cortisol is an essential "stress" hormone to the body produced by the adrenal glands. It helps the body fight stressors including infection & inflammation, it helps the body to regulate glucose levels, & helps the liver in the body's detoxification process. In essence, cortisol enables the body to restore homeostasis after any form of stress.

Unfortunately, in modern society, people are relying more & more on cortisol-fired "second wind" to get them through the day. Too many stressors in our life demand more & more production of cortisol. The higher our levels of cortisol, the higher our perception of stress rises, the poorer our immune system functions, placing the body under more & more stress into a self-perpetuating problem. So what happens when we ask so much of the adrenals, are working constantly under the excess production of cortisol and depleting the body's stores?

It is the adrenal glands production of cortisol that helps us deal with stress, and our stores are being constantly depleted. Excess demand means we lose the ability to recover so efficiently. For some it may be one specific event or trauma in their lives that is sufficient to cause Adrenal Fatigue. For others it may be a series of smaller events, or one that finally "breaks the camel's back". Unfortunately, this is one of the reasons that can make diagnosis difficult and a diagnosis of simply "Stress" can be poorly misunderstood or unsympathetically misconstrued. And for the sufferer, not realising that there may be more steps that they can, or should take, than simply a few days rest to prevent recurrence or exacerbating the symptoms when returning to the very life that could be causing these symptoms. So if you suspect that you, or someone you care for, may be suffering from Adrenal Fatigue, what common symptoms are you looking for?

Symptoms

Symptoms are extremely varied but include decreased ability to handle stress, drops in productivity & focus, muscle weakness, lowered sex drive, increased severity of sensitivities or allergies, swollen glands in neck, low moods, energy & clarity, feelings of cold, sleeping late, or waking after sleep still feeling unrefreshed, feelings of hopelessness, recurring coughs & colds or respiratory infections with longer than normal recovery times, skin conditions, pain in muscles (particularly in neck & upper back) for no apparent reason, dizziness when rising from standing/seated position and many more.

Note, a full list of precursors and symptoms is available in James L. Wilson's "Adrenal Fatigue - The 21st Century Stress Syndrome", as well as a detailed questionnaire which can helps individuals to establish the potential for adrenal fatigue, and its' severity.

Bear in mind conditions such as Diabetes (type II), M.E/ Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Asthma, Anorexia and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder can also predispose individuals to Adrenal Fatigue.

Positive Steps

However, it is not all doom & gloom. If you suspect that you may be suffering from an even moderate form of adrenal fatigue, or your life is highly stressful & you are concerned that you are at risk of Adrenal Fatigue, then there are simple steps that you can take to help alleviate the symptoms, aid recovery & prevent regression.

Foods - Firstly cut out foods that place further demand on the adrenals by avoiding stimulants such as coffee. Highly processed foods also demand more of the adrenals as the body recognises them as toxins, and therefore Cortisol levels are further depleted to aid digestion.

Blood sugar levels can be difficult to maintain if suffering from Adrenal Fatigue. So don't let them drop too low as this can just create additional stress on the body. Eat small healthy meals regularly throughout the day, particularly in the morning, when blood sugar is conventionally low. Then an early lunch, light snack early afternoon, & evening meal - not too late. A light protein snack before bed will aid sleep & recovery further.

Sugary foods should be avoided as poor regulation of blood sugar creates a roller coaster of adrenalin & energy spikes, creating further stress on adrenal function.

Food sensitivities & intolerances are often exacerbated during adrenal fatigue, and the worsening of these can often be a secondary symptom of adrenal fatigue. Therefore, logically, to assist recovery, avoid known food intolerances. If you suspect you have food intolerances, you may want to try an elimination or detox diet, cutting out all processed & de-natured foods till you can establish what your intolerances are.

Be warned, if you are currently relying on coffee & other "quick fixes" such as sugary foods to get you through the day, then you are probably going to have a "crash" where the body detoxifies. This can be a hum-dinger of a headache. However, this tends to be extremely short lived, typically a day or two, and then you will start to feel the benefits shortly afterwards.

HCL - many people with adrenal fatigue suffer with lower levels of Hydrochloric Acid, which is necessary to break down proteins in the stomach, leading to excess gas, and/or bloating. Supplements are available for this.

Hydration -Unfortunately, too many of us are not keeping hydrated enough on a day to day basis. Dehydration itself can be a stressor on the body, so take steps to keep fully hydrated. You should ensure that you are are drinking at least 1 litre of clean, pure water for every 50llbs of your own bodyweight each day. Juices, teas, coffee & other soft drinks do not count towards this!

Sleep - Hormone levels fluctuate at various points in the day, so if you are not at rest during certain key times you are further depleting your body and blocking recovery. Aim to be asleep by 10.30pm at least five times a week (before that second-wind kicks in & keeps you up late). Turn off the lights, switch off the computer, TV, or games console an hour or two before bed & try to unwind fully before attempting to sleep. If you are unaccustomed to sleeping so early, then it may be an idea to train the body slowly, try to be asleep by 11.30, then 11.00, then 10.30. Where possible also try to sleep in until 8.30-9am, if only at weekends.

Relaxation - Finding a specific time to dedicate to yourself is a simple positive step you can take. Maybe book a weekly massage, or try & set aside a weekly time to take part in a hobby that you enjoy & find relaxing.

Breathing - the simple practice of breathing techniques can be an enormous help in coping with stress, the sensation of stress, and reducing cortisol levels. Try lying down & placing one hand on your chest & one on your belly and feeling where you are breathing into; chest or belly. If you are breathing predominately into the upper chest, then you may be exacerbating tension as you breathing paradoxically (look at a sleeping baby or pet, you will notice that it is the belly that moves with the breath naturally). Practice abdominal breathing, then slowing down the breath. Maybe invest in a short meditation course, or if time is precious, simply practising abdominal & slower breathing at night in bed (a great way to help you to sleep) & before rising.

Exercise - Practices such Yoga, Qigong & Thai Chi are excellent forms of exercise as they also use breath-work, but are also means of helping the body maintain equilibrium.

However, this does not mean that you should avoid other forms of exercise, but you may need to adjust your usual exercise routine. Short intensive workouts such as circuits (using moderately to heavy weights with smaller repetitions) are ideal, rather than extensive, cardio-heavy training sessions that can serve to increase the pressure being placed on the adrenals. Rest after 20 - 25 minutes of exercise, stretch afterwards, and focus on correct breathing techniques throughout.

Good things - take steps to avoid additional stressors where you can, be that people or situations that you find physically or emotionally draining. Surround yourself in the time that you can with people, places that have a positive effect on you.

Supplements & Herbs

If you want to give yourself every possible helping hand, then you may want to consider investing in some high-quality supplements that assist in the adrenal cascade and/or alleviate some of the symptoms of Adrenal fatigue. Some of these include;

Vitamin C - high doses of Vitamin C are essential to the hormonal cascade (release & production process) & strengthens general glandular function.

B complex of vitamins - (niacin, thiamine, pantothenic acid, riboflavin,and vitamins B6 and B12). Helps to reduce headaches & fatigue, maintains the whole nervous system, help build stress tolerance.
Magnesium - best taken at night, aids in adrenal function

Calcium - settles the nervous system. Also calcium & magnesium act as antagonists, so it is important to maintain a healthy balance between the two. (Note calcium is better taken late afternoon/early evening, but should not be taken at the same time as magnesium).

Ashwagandha - as an adaptogen, ashwagandha helps the body to achieve equilibrium. It also aids in endocrine function, assisting in coping with stress & anxiety, as well as aiding good sleep function.

Rhodiola - excellent for some of the more mental health aspects of Adrenal Fatigue.

I know that all of these things may seem a big ask when people are struggling with increased workloads, and are both time & cash poor, but making a few simple changes can alleviate your stress levels & symptoms. It is important to bear in mind that the points earned with your boss from staying late, taking on too much work, juggling too many things, may not be worth the price your health is paying.

In these times of financial insecurity, it seems the smartest investment seems to be in your own health.

Julie Winterton is a Level 2 Health Coach, Yoga Siromani & Kinetic Chain Assessment Specialist at the Dax Moy Personal Training Studios, Islington, London
http://www.daxmoy.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Julie_Winterton

By Andrew Stratton

Adrenal fatigue syndrome is usually brought on by chronic physical, mental or emotional stress that causes the adrenal glands to overproduce hormones like cortisol and adrenaline, ultimately resulting in down-regulation and exhaustion.

Misunderstood and ignored by traditional medical practitioners, adrenal fatigue was not an accepted term until Dr.Wilson wrote the book, Adrenal Fatigue: The 21st Century Stress Syndrome, to bring this syndrome to the notice of the medical community.

Although traditional medical practitioners do not recognize it as a valid syndrome caused by chronic stress, herbal and alternative practitioners have a number of remedies to treat a range of non-specific symptoms and address the root cause of stress by helping our bodies adapt to stressful situations better.

Many of these herbs are adaptogens herbs, used to regulate endocrine hormones and the immune system and buffer the effects of stress by helping the body adapt to it better. They can down-regulate an over-functioning system or boost and stimulate an under-functioning one to help the body reach a balance. Here are some natural remedies commonly used to treat the symptoms of adrenal fatigue syndrome:

Skullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora)

This herb is native to North America and known for its calming effects on the nervous and muscular-skeletal system. It was traditionally used by North American Indians as therapy for nervous tension, anxiety, convulsions, and adrenal fatigue symptoms. The flavonoids and amino acids in skullcap are thought to be responsible for its relaxant action.

Rhodiola (Rhodiola rosea)

Also know as Golden Root or Roseroot, Rhodiola grows in cold regions of the world and has been used for centuries to cope with the cold climate and stressful life. It is an adaptogen and has been shown to boost physical and mental performance, and diminish fatigue.

Rhodiola is used to improve mood, alleviate depression. It works by regulating serotonin and dopamine levels and has an effect on the mood-regulating chemicals known as endorphins. In laboratory animals, it was shown to effectively prevent changes caused by stress such as those that affect appetite, physical activity, weight gain and the estrus cycle.

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera)

Ashwagandha is an adaptogenic herb that has been used for thousands of years by Ayurvedic practitioners in India. The root contains flavonoids and withanolides that help regulate physiological function in the hormonal and nervous system.

Ashwagandha can alleviate the effects of stress, boost memory and cognitive function as these are often impaired during adrenal fatigue and burnout. It has been used to combat fatigue, improve stamina, and enhance immune response and adrenal function.

Green tea

Green tea contains a substance known as L-theanine (gamma-ethylamino-L-glutamic acid). This unique, neurologically-active amino acid is a relaxant and mood enhancer. It acts by creating a sense of relaxation created by the direct stimulation of alpha brain waves-a state achieved in meditation. It is also used by the body to manufacture the neurotransmitter, gamma amino butyric acid (GABA), that influences the levels of dopamine and serotonin.

Natural and herbal products that balance endocrine function and diminish the effects of stress help those recovering from adrenal burnout and fatigue. Taking a good supplement that contains a number of these herbs, and following a healthy lifestyle will help recover from adrenal fatigue and get you back on your feet again.

Adrenal fatigue supplements are a safe, effective and natural way to combat stress and prevent adrenal fatigue syndrome. For doctor-formulated supplements that help your body cope with the demands of modern living and promote optimal wellness and balance, visit http://www.goodelements.com

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By Pauline Go

Adrenal glands are responsible for synthesizing corticosteroids and catecholamines. In addition, the glands also secrete hormones like cortisol and adrenaline. Cortisol is a steroidal hormone, while adrenaline is a neurotransmitter. Cortisol helps to cope with stress and strain that a person suffers from because of work or personal issues.

If your adrenal glands do not function properly, the level of cortisol in your body decreases. This can cause fatigue, and it is this fatigue that is known as adrenal fatigue. In addition, you will face problems with your blood sugar levels.

So, how is adrenal fatigue caused? Today's life is very hectic requiring people to work long hours and face all kinds of stress and strain. Because of the competitive lives we lead, many people are under too much stress and this is the main reason for adrenal fatigue. Other causes could be relationship problems, financial issues, prolonged illnesses, lack of sleep and/or death of a close family member or friend. Certain factors like anger, fatigue, depression and anxiety can also lead to adrenal fatigue. Over exercising, not eating a healthy and balanced diet and severe injury can also be a cause.

Here are some signs and symptoms of adrenal fatigue that are usually visible are a lot of mental and/or physical stress.

• Low stamina
• Weight gain
• Lack of sleep
• Urge to eat salty food
• Palpitations
• Feeling nervous
• Low immunity
• Low blood pressure
• Low libido
• Depression
• Memory problems
• Dry skin
• Loss of hair
• Low blood sugar levels
• Having no enthusiasm to do things

Your doctor will be able to diagnose the condition with standard tests. Some of these tests are Ragland's Sign Blood Pressure Test, pupil dilation examination and salivary cortisol test. Based on the results of the test, the doctor will prescribe a course of treatment, which could include taking vitamins, getting adequate sleep and making lifestyle changes.

About Author:
Pauline Go is an online leading expert in the medical industry. She also offers top quality articles like :
Folic Acid Supplements,
Pathophysiology of Insulin

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