The best diet for adrenal fatigue

Feb 2, 2019
3 min read

What is the adrenal fatigue diet? The adrenal fatigue diet is a food-based approach to improving stress on the adrenal glands. Your adrenal glands are located in your kidneys and produce hormones that help regulate your body. Adrenal fatigue occurs when your adrenal glands can’t function properly. The adrenal fatigue diet promotes: proper functionality of the adrenal glands healthy blood pressure increased healthy nutrients in the body improved stress levels This diet is similar to most recommended balanced diets, which generally include:

high-protein foods

vegetables

whole grains

The goal is to increase your energy levels naturally so you don’t burn stored nutrients. The adrenal fatigue diet is still being tested for its effectiveness. This is partially because doctors are still researching adrenal fatigue. However, it has been proven that eating a healthier diet and adopting a healthier lifestyle can make you feel better physically and mentally. What is adrenal fatigue? Adrenal fatigue occurs as a result of chronic stress and adrenal insufficiency. Your adrenal glands are responsible for producing cortisol. Cortisol is a hormone that helps regulate your blood pressure. When you’re stressed, your adrenal glands release this hormone. The cortisol responds to your immune system slowing down and your blood pressure changing. When you experience chronic stress or anxiety, your adrenal glands might not be able to produce enough cortisol. This is called adrenal insufficiency, which can be medically diagnosed. Adrenal fatigue isn’t recognized as a medical diagnosis yet. Only some doctors believe chronic stress and adrenal insufficiency cause adrenal fatigue. Adrenal fatigue symptoms Some common symptoms of adrenal fatigue are:

nervousness

chronic fatigue

digestive issues

body aches

lightheadedness

low blood pressure

Adrenal fatigue is also associated with adrenal insufficiency. Symptoms of adrenal insufficiency include:

chronic fatigue

loss of appetite

stomach pain

muscle weakness

unexplained weight gain

In more severe cases of adrenal insufficiency, you may experience:

depression

nausea

vomiting

diarrhea

low blood pressure

hyperpigmentation

Foods to avoid If you decide to pursue an adrenal-friendly diet, doctors recommend limiting foods and drinks high in refined and processed sugar and unhealthy fats, while also managing blood sugar. Some foods to avoid include:

white sugar

white flour

alcohol

caffeine

soda

fried food

processed food

fast food

artificial sweeteners

Timing of meals is important for blood sugar regulation and for supporting adrenal glands. It helps to eat breakfast and eat regularly throughout the day. Eating breakfast and lunch forces your body to burn necessary nutrients and reduces your energy levels. If you eat regular, balanced meals and add healthy snacks, you can maintain your energy and cortisol levels all day long. Foods to eat A well-balanced diet is the best way to keep your body healthy and to regulate your sugar levels. Doctors recommend balancing protein, healthy fats, and high-quality, nutrient-dense carbohydrates. Increase your vegetable intake to receive the necessary amount of vitamins and minerals. Also, include foods high in vitamin C, B vitamins (especially B-5 and B-6), and magnesium to help support healthy adrenal glands as well. Some foods to eat on the adrenal fatigue diet include:

lean meats

fish

eggs

legumes

nuts

leafy greens and colorful vegetables

whole grains

dairy

low-sugar fruits

sea salt in moderation

healthy fats such as olive oil, coconut oil, and grapeseed oil

It’s also important to remain hydratedthroughout the day. Dehydration can influence your stress levels and force your adrenal glands to produce cortisol. The best thing you can do is stop looking for quick results and trust the process! You got this! Stay healthy and follow me at www.nicoledomuret.com Pray, hope, don't worry. - St. Padre Pio