As we discussed in a previous blog on the adrenal glands, stress can elicit the fight-flight response in our bodies, which is designed to propel us into action. However, if that response is not properly exercised, a “defeat response” can take place. This defeat response causes the function of our adrenal glands to be disrupted. Because the adrenal glands release many hormones, an imbalance can trigger other issues within our bodies, such as thyroid dysfunction, autoimmunity, inflammation and obesity. For example, a high level of cortisol, a hormone released during times of stress, can have a negative effect on the hormone insulin, which regulates blood sugar. So while stress may seem unrelated to blood sugar levels, in actuality they are intrinsically connected.
The obvious first step to healing the adrenals is to lower stress, or to see stress as a positive, motivational force in your life. However, if you’re already suffering from a compromised adrenal function due to high amounts of stress over long periods of time, there are nutritional strategies that can help bring you back into balance.
Detoxification
To nourish the adrenals, it is important to eliminate toxins from your body because toxins can act as disruptors within the endocrine system. A medically supervised detoxification program where you follow a dietary protocol consisting exclusively of whole, nutrient-dense foods can revive adrenal health and will aid in balancing blood sugars and boosting metabolism.
Nutrition Support
In addition to food strategies, supplementing with specific nutrients can also enhance your endocrine health. Utilizing the long-held theory that “like heals like,” tissue-specific glandulars that are rich in vitamins and minerals can help strengthen damaged adrenal tissues. Supplements that target increasing insulin action, such as the mineral chromium, can also assist in balancing blood sugars. Nutrients such as N-acetyl tyrosine and vitamin C are effective at supporting the production of brain neurotransmitters, which can foster mental health.
There is also an array of B vitamins that help balance the production of stress hormones; these include thiamine HCL (B1), pyridoxal-5-phosphate (B6), and pantothenic acid (B5). Herbs that aid in regulating cortisol levels include American and Indian ginseng, and licorice root.
Stress is an unavoidable reality in today’s modern world. In addition to finding ways to alleviate unnecessary stress in your life, make stress work towards making positive changes in your life, be mindful of your diet, and provide your body with supplements that provide additional adrenal support.
You May Also Like...
Aloe Vera, Beyond Sunburns
The aloe vera plant is a striking specimen that resembles a cactus with its thorny, fleshy leaves.…
Nutrients for Sun-Damaged Skin
Throughout the summer, many of us have spent endless hours outdoors, as nearly any favorite summer…
Thanksgiving 2017: Gluten-Free but Flavor “Full”
For people who follow lower carbohydrate or grain-free diets in order to support overall health and…
‘Tis the Season for Peppermint…
…And ‘tis the season for holiday cheer! The stockings are hung, the ornaments placed and the lights…
Horseradish – The Potent, Pungent Root Vegetable
For Jewish people around the world, the Passover Seder plate contains several foods that have…
Fall for the Power of Pumpkin
As the air gets cooler and leaves change color, we start to become aware of the changing season.…
Clove Bud’s Hidden Treasures
Everyone loves to find a hidden treasure. It may be the valuable antique at a local garage sale,…
Mitochondria: Use Them or Lose Them
Adenosine triphosphate: Textbooks tell us ATP is the universal energy currency for life on Earth.…
Kids and Probiotics: Let there Be Germs!
Let’s face it: the 20th Century was an unqualified success for modern medicine in eradicating…