Adrenal fatigue refers to a collection of nonspecific symptoms such as body aches, fatigue, nervousness, sleep disturbances, and digestive issues. It is thought to occur when the adrenal glands become overtaxed and unable to produce adequate levels of cortisol and other hormones that regulate metabolism and the body's response to stress.
The adrenal glands produce hormones including:
Some key points about adrenal fatigue:
What causes it?
Potential culprits behind adrenal fatigue include:
The adrenals can become taxed when demands placed on them exceed their capacity. Stress hormones like cortisol are meant to be secreted in bursts, not 24/7. Constant "fight or flight" activity strains the system.
What are the symptoms?
Symptoms associated with adrenal fatigue include:
The nonspecific nature of these symptoms makes adrenal fatigue difficult to diagnose. The severity can also vary significantly. Mild signs can become chronic and debilitating for some.
How is it treated?
Standard medicine doesn't recognize adrenal fatigue as a real condition. But alternative practitioners often recommend:
The goal is to identify and remove burdens placed on the adrenal glands while providing nutrients and lifestyle practices that support healthy adrenal function. With time, the adrenals can recover homeostatic balance.
I aimed to provide an overview of this controversial concept, highlight key details, and summarize both conventional and alternative viewpoints.