Fighting Burn-out: Natural Help For Stress, Fatigue and Adrenal Insufficiency

The adrenal or �stress glands� are small, triangular shaped glandslocated on the top of the kidneys. Their function is to prepare thebody�s resources to run or fight through the releasing of specifichormones. When this primitive, instinctive response is activated, bloodis diverted from digestive system while our blood pressure, pulse,blood sugar levels increase. At the same time, our pupils dilate andthe speed of reflexes increases. All of this happens as a way to ensureour survival.
Inmodern times, we don�t� have to worry about becoming dinner for ahungry tiger or being trampled by a herd of buffalo. Our bodies,however, automatically respond the same way when we are under physical,emotional or mental stress. Many of us live in a state of constantstress that strains our bodies to the point of exhaustion. Over time,and through repetition, this can impact the way the adrenal glands function, causing us to experience adrenal insufficiency or �burn-out�.
If you think about it, our adrenal glandscan be likened to the batteries in a flashlight. They are filled with acharge that is used to run the body and give us that extra edge intimes of need. Each time we use our flashlight, we drain some of thecharge from our batteries. Fortunately for us, our batteries areautomatically recharged when we eat healthy and get lots of rest. If,on the other hand, we use our flashlight all of the time, and don�trecharge our batteries regularly, it is only a matter of time beforethe light starts to dim and eventually goes out all together.
Technically speaking, adrenal insufficiency refers to the inability of adrenal glandsto produce the proper quantity of hormones needed to run the body. Itshould not to be confused with Addison�s disease, which is when theadrenal glandsfail to produce hormones or shutdown completely. The most commonsymptom of adrenal insufficiency is fatigue. Other symptoms include:not feeling rested after sleep, inability to deal with life stressors,poor memory, a low sex drive, frequent infections due to a suppressed immune system, inability to concentrate, depression, mood swings, irritability, weight gain, weakness and hormonal imbalances.
Thereare a number of reasons why people experience adrenal insufficiency. Itcan be from a genetic or congenital abnormality, but the most commonone is stress. Some of us force our bodies to run or fight all thetime. Life challenges, financial pressures, relationship issues andunresolved emotional concerns will eventually deplete youradrenal glands. Internal stressors such as allergies, physical disease, nutritionaldeficiencies, food and environmental toxins can also put pressure onthe body�s natural reserves. In addition, stimulants,such as sugar, white flower, caffeine, as well as constant exposure toloud music, loud noise or E M radiation can take a toll on ouradrenal glands.
Recommendations For Wellness
Firstand foremost, stop forcing yourself to keep going and start listeningto your body. It will tell you what it needs. If it is tired, tryclosing your eyes and taking a few deep breaths. Taking a break, even ashort one is a great way to let your body rest.
Just let it go. Allow your body to let go of any resentment, blame, guilt, worries or fears that can paralyze the adrenal glands.
Learning relaxation techniques such as biofeedback, meditation guided imagery can help you cope with stress better.
Trytaking a hot bath with l avender or n eroli oil at night. These oilscan help to calm frazzled nerves, promote a feeling of calmness andbring about a restful nights sleep.
Siberian ginseng is an adaptogenic herb that supports the adrenal glands making it a great tonic to help the body deal with stress.
Foundin the rainforest of South America, the herb suma has been reported tohelp increase energy levels and rejuvenate the spirit. It has beenfound to be useful in restoring glandular function and balancing theendocrine system.
Licorice Root has traditionally been used to support the adrenals. This herb is very sweet and is not recommended if you are diabetic.
Pantothenic Acid, vitamin B5, is vital for adrenal hormone production and is recommended in supporting the adrenal glands.
Nature�s Sunshine�s Energy-V Capsules and Nervous Fatigue Formula are a collection of stimulating & adaptogenic herbs which can help the body adapt to stress.
DHEA is a hormone precursor produced by the adrenal glands.Leading health experts to believe that after the age of 25, the body'sability to produce DHEA declines and supplementation can help increaseenergy and counteract the effects of stress.
Supplements made from bovine adrenal glandsprovide nutritional support for proper adrenal gland function. Only usethis supplement for short periods of time as to not disrupt the normalfunction of theadrenal glands.