Adrenal Fatigue, Cortisol Levels and Stress
Stress, body aches, fatigues, nervousness, sleep issues and digestive problems. This is a common list of symptoms you may find if you are concerned about ‘Adrenal Fatigue’ (or didn’t know you were concerned with it). Adrenal fatigue is put in air quotes just now because as we stand today science has not been able to formally define or diagnose it. Yet, many are experiencing symptoms. No matter where they look or who they turn to they are not finding the answers they need.
Our adrenal glands are responsible for important functions in our body. Producing hormones, regulating metabolism, supporting immune function are a few. They also play a large role in how our body responds to stress. The adrenal glands produce cortisol which has come to be known as the “stress hormone”. However, it also plays a role in many body functions including but not limited to regulating metabolism, immune function, stress response as well as maintaining healthy blood sugar levels. In times of high physical or mental stress the body will produce more cortisol to ensure the bodies appropriate response.
Maybe you are spending too much of your time worrying about situations that may be out of your control. Are you working longer hours than you are accustomed to? Possibly, you went through a traumatic experience recently. Cortisol levels may remain heightened if you relate to these scenarios. In these situation your body is trying to respond to the stress that you are putting on yourself the only way it knows how. Stress is not uncommon for many people today for numerous reasons. The big question then remains, how can we help our body respond better?
Help Your Body Respond to Adrenal Fatigue Appropriately
First and foremost, if you are experiencing any symptoms, body aches, fatigue, nervousness, sleep issues or digestive problems it is important to speak to a professional. If you feel otherwise generally healthy, a specialized nutritionist or alternative medicine practitioner may be the right fit. If you have underlying concerns due to genetics, speak to your doctor. Finding the right professional help is a great first step to handling stress appropriately.
Secondly, take inventory of your day-to-day life. Are you getting enough exercise? Do you eat well-rounded meals? Are you hydrated? Do you get enough rest? Answering these questions can be enlightening. You may find out you have let your workout routine slip through the cracks. Maybe, you have been settling for unhealthy food options because they are more convenient. Whatever it is, it is important to shed light on some unhealthy habits you may have acquired. From there, start filling the areas of your life that may have become neglected.
Once you have a better understanding of your gaps you can better understand your journey to health. A helpful tool can be a Mineral Hair Analysis Test to determine mineral levels and ratios in your body. It can be eye-opening the impact mineral levels such as copper, zinc, magnesium, iodine, or even trace minerals can have on your overall physical and mental health.