By Kaley Burns EBS COLUMNIST
The adrenal glands are vital glands that pump out dozens of different “life-dependent” hormones daily. Many of us are familiar with cortisol as the “stress hormone,” but it actually has many crucial roles within the body including electrolyte balance, managing fluid retention, supporting sleep and concentration and even helping libido. This is why adrenal hormonal imbalances usually impact many areas of your well-being.
Typically, the underlying causes of adrenal imbalance include a combination of factors related to high stress levels or significantly stressful experience, exposure to environmental toxins, lack of sleep or pushing past exhaustion while over-exercising, and poor diet.
Adjusting caffeine and alcohol intake helps. Too much of either alcohol or caffeine interferes with your sleep cycle and can result in abnormal adrenal function as well as anxiety or depression.
Eating an unrefined diet can also help. Consuming natural, healthy fats (coconuts and coconut oil, butter, avocado, nuts, seeds and olive oil), wild-caught fish (such as salmon, mackerel or sardines that provide anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids), Celtic or Himalayan sea salt, and high-fiber foods (like berries, chia seeds, flaxseeds and starchy veggies) all support optimal adrenal hormone regulation.
It’s worth checking your movement routine. Exercise helps combat stress, but it’s also possible for it to be “too much of a good thing.” Over-exercising and not recovering properly with rest days taxes your adrenals and interferes with hormone production. Try to move your body in ways that you enjoy, but also give yourself rest when needed.
Testing for adrenal function will vary for each individual. Testing can be performed in some individuals through saliva tests, others via blood testing, or urine collections may also be used.
As with all holistic care, there is not a one-size-fits-all approach to promote balanced and healthy adrenal and glandular function. Therapies must be tailored to meet each individual’s needs. It is important to work with a team that can optimize your unique health needs.
Dr. Kaley Burns is a licensed Naturopathic Physician providing a wide range of services for her clients, including: Naturopathic Medicine, IV Nutrient Therapy, Regenerative Injections, Rejuvenation Therapies, Vitamin Shots, and Nutrition Counseling. She embraces a natural approach to health and aims to similarly inspire and guide others on their health journey.
