10 Things for Adrenal Fatigue
Although not an actual medical diagnosis, adrenal fatigue may be a common condition affecting much of our stressed population.
Feeling like you can’t slow down or can’t get going and/or experiencing:
- fatigue even after sleeping well
- food cravings
- inability to relax
- irritability
- unstable mood
- insomnia
- weight gain
or other symptoms without a direct western medicine cause are all symptoms that may be linked to adrenal fatigue (based on naturopathic perspective).
If you’re suffering from any of these (especially after a primary care work up shows things are normal), you may be at a loss of what to do.
Consulting with Dr. Graves (click here to schedule a free 15 minute phone call), can help you determine if adrenal fatigue should be investigated.
And if adrenal fatigue is the conclusion?
Well, there are a variety of things you can do – here are 10 of them!
- Get tested.
A Four Point Cortisol Saliva test as well as blood tests that measure elements of adrenal function can provide insight into how well (or not) the adrenals are functioning. Results can help determine the best path for treatment.
- Listen to your body.
Feel tired? Take a nap. Can’t relax? Shut off electronics and draw a bath.
Pay close attention to what your body needs and modify your activities accordingly…with no guilt!
- Rest.
When adrenal hormones are depleted, rest can be essential for building up reserves again. Slow down, lighten exercise, and reduce your daily load so you can rest when possible.
- Get acupuncture.
This East Asian practice strives to balance adrenal function, focusing on activating the body’s own healing mechanisms.
- Take herbal supplements.
Adaptogen herbs help maintain homeostasis in the body and support stress management – a welcome support for the adrenals. A variety of supplements available in capsules, tablets, powders, balms, and teas that can either help increase energy or promote calm in order for the glands to rest and restore.
- Change bad habits.
Need a few drinks each night to relax? Sleep schedule constantly changing? Can’t seem to put your phone down?
Whether it’s an unhealthy habit to deal with stress or a lifestyle habit you are stuck in a rut with, your adrenals may be suffering from it. Replace bad habits with a healthy option and give yourself patience as you make the change.
- Eat a mindful diet.
Adrenal function can be affected by diet, particularly when it comes to blood sugar. Limiting processed and sugary foods as well as eating protein at every meal can support stabilized blood sugar levels – a welcome relief for the adrenals.
- Get a B12 shot.
Support the adrenals with a B12 shot, chock full of B vitamins and other nutrients that can both stimulate and calm energy levels. Click here to schedule one at our office.
- Seek out support.
It’s not always easy to change lifestyle habits and when you do, you may also need support to keep you on the right track. Whether professional naturopathic care for a customized plan, holistic counseling to work through trauma and/or daily life, or a friend that can keep encouraging you, find someone to lean on while you heal.
- Learn to love and be kind to yourself.
This is the time to let go of judgement and rediscover yourself, if need be.
What you were doing before may not have helped your health and chances are, could have contributed to your adrenal insufficiency. Make space in your life to take care of yourself without expectation – discover who you want to be and make choices that reflect that.
Sub-optimal function of the adrenals is often an overlooked issue, but nonetheless, it’s one that can wreak havoc on your health and daily living.
If you believe adrenal fatigue may be causing your symptoms or would like to learn more, please call us at (303) 688-6698 or click here to schedule a free 15 minute phone consultation with Dr. Graves.
The CNMA office provides naturopathic care, testing, massage, and holistic counseling to those in Castle Rock, Castle Pines, Highlands Ranch, Lone Tree, Centennial, Parker, Larkspur, Monument, Colorado Springs, and the greater Denver metro area. For those outside of these areas, virtual appointments are available.
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