The elevated blood sugar, in turn, requires higher levels of insulin to get the glucose from the blood into the cells. Many other alterations take place at the biochemical and cellular levels in response to, and to compensate for, the decrease in adrenal hormones that occurs with adrenal fatigue.Īdrenal fatigue can affect blood sugar and sugar metabolism as stress normally causes the adrenal glands to produce more cortisol, which helps raise blood sugar levels so the cells can more glucose to generate energy for your response to the stressor.

Changes occur in your carbohydrate, protein and fat metabolism, fluid and electrolyte balance, heart and cardiovascular system, and even sex drive. With each increment of reduction in adrenal function, every organ and system in your body is more profoundly affected. In more serious cases, the activity of the adrenal glands is so diminished that you may have difficulty getting out of bed for more than a few hours per day. These hormones themselves have a whole host of physical, emotional and psychological effects, from the level of your sex drive to the tendency to gain weight.Īdrenal fatigue can wreak havoc with your life. the distribution of stored fat – especially around your waist (the spare tire) and at the sides of your faceĪfter mid-life (menopause in women, andropause in men), the adrenal glands gradually become the major source of the sex hormones circulating throughout the body in both men and women.the conversion of fats and proteins into energy.the utilization of carbohydrates and fats.These hormones closely modulate many metabolic processes:

For example, the protective activity of anti-inflammatory adrenal hormones such as cortisol help to minimize reactions like swelling and inflammation in situations ranging from allergies to autoimmune disorders. It is also their job to keep your body’s reactions to stress in balance so that they are appropriate and not harmful or excessive. Adrenal function is of paramount importance because these small glands play a pivotal role in determining the way your body responds to every change in your internal and external environment The main purpose of your adrenals is to enable your body to deal with stress from every possible source, ranging from injury and disease to work and relationship problems. Of note is a feeling like you cannot cope anymore, even with things which would’ve previously not been perceived as particularly stressful. Patients with adrenal fatigue may not have any obvious signs of physical illness, but will absolutely experience a general sense of unwellness, tiredness or “gray” feelings. What is Adrenal FatigueĪdrenal fatigue is known as a group of symptoms or syndrome that occur subsequent to the underperformance of the adrenal glands and thus deficient hormone production. Adrenal fatigue can also follow on the heels of a major surgery, childbirth or even car accidents. As the name suggests, fatigue is the dominant symptom.

Treatment for adrenal fatigue