Signs of Adrenal Fatigue

The theory of adrenal fatigue says when the body is constantly in a state of fight or flight from physical, emotional, or mental stress the adrenal glands may be unable to keep up with hormone production causing undesirable symptoms. Because exercise is a form of physical stress, athletes are especially prone.

The following are signs of adrenal fatigue:

• Exhaustion
• Hair falling out
• Digestive problems
• Low immunity
• Slow recovery time
• Lacking mental clarity

While the theory of adrenal fatigue is debated among healthcare professionals, you still need to pay attention to your symptoms and seek help to improve your quality of life. Shifting to a healthier diet and lifestyle will optimize your body’s healing and you may experience symptom relief.

These are some solutions that have helped other people manage their symptoms:

• B- complex vitamins

The B-vitamins are involved in the pathways that break down macros to use for energy so repleting them could help you feel more energized. Athletes are at increased risk for deficiency, so if you are an athlete you may want to ask your health educator about starting a b-complex vitamin and getting a micronutrient test.

• Exercise

Getting in a quick workout gives you an energy burst and releases feel-good hormones. On the flip side, if you’re exercising too much then you may need to build in some extra time for recovery.

• Customized diet

Make sure you’re getting all your macronutrients and micronutrients through a customized nutrition plan. Many athletes think that exercising a lot means that they don’t have to watch what they eat as carefully, but the truth is that athletes need more calories, vitamins, and minerals than the general population. This is why diet quality is so important to sport performance.

• Stress reduction techniques

The gut and the brain communicate with one another. Stress is associated with changes in gut bacteria, over and under eating, and nutrient absorption. Targeting stress, therefore, can alleviate many symptoms of adrenal fatigue. Stress reduction techniques should be unique to you and your lifestyle.

• Specialty testing

Get to the root cause by participating in gut testing, micronutrient testing, hormone testing, or food sensitivity specialty testing.

• Referral to a primary care provider

Signs associated with adrenal fatigue could simply indicate a high-stress lifestyle or a more serious health problem like thyroid issues. Adrenal fatigue is a theory, not a diagnosis, so seek care from your primary care physician for further testing and diagnosis.

In summary, your symptoms may be reduced or eliminated with the right lifestyle and diet modifications. Symptoms associated with adrenal fatigue could indicate a more serious hormonal or autoimmune condition. It is important to speak with your primary care physician to determine if there is an underlying diagnosable cause to your symptoms.

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