Healthy adrenal glands mean more energy for that jump shot, precise golf swing, or that busy day. When the adrenal glands are functioning normally, there is better control over the risk of weight gain and disease as well as the ability to turn adrenal fatigue into energy.
The adrenal glands are little glands shaped like a triangle that sit on each upper lobe of the kidneys. Each gland consists of an outer layer called the cortex and an inner layer called the medulla. The cortex releases corticosteroids, hormones made from cholesterol. These hormones are natural steroids called glucocorticoids, mineralocorticoids, and the sex hormones androgen, estrogen, and progestin.
Glucocorticoids regulate fats, sugars, and proteins as well as inflammation. Mineralocorticoids regulate salts and minerals that keep the body hydrated. The sex hormones made in the testes and ovaries are also regulated by the adrenal glands. These hormones are responsible for femininity and masculinity characteristics as well as reproduction.
Deep inside the adrenal glands, the medulla produces hormones called catecholamines. These important hormones regulate the heartbeat, breathing, and energy reserves. Alternately, these hormones can tighten the blood vessels and cause the heart rate to accelerate. This condition exists when the body reacts to mental and/or physical stress.
Long periods of stress can lead to a condition called adrenal fatigue. Some of the symptoms of adrenal fatigue are felling tired all the time, craving salt and sugar, not having any energy until the evening hours, difficulty with motivation to exercise, difficulty with concentration, digestive problems, and many more.
This condition can be analyzed through a saliva test by a family practitioner or holistic doctor. Try this website to find a holistic doctor near you: http://heartspring.net/naturopathic_directory.html
In the meantime, stay away from concentrated levels of caffeine and sugar. Adhere to a healthy eating plan complete with energy foods such as fruits and vegetables, fiber-rich foods, and moderate amounts of protein. These foods are very easy on the adrenal glands. A good source of healthy energy supplements are herbs such as pure Siberian ginseng and astragalus. These herbs also boost the immune system. Other energy-producing herbs are fo-ti root and black cohosh root.
Finally, supplement the diet with a highly absorbable multivitamin with high levels of vitamin B complex. Be consistent when adhering to a healthy eating plan, exercise regularly, and get plenty of rest. Your excitable little adrenal glands will love you for it!
Chabner, Davi-Ellen, The Language of Medicine, 6th edition, Copyright 2001, 1996, 1991, 1985, 1981, 1976 by W.B. Saunders Company