So your stressful life has contributed to sleeping issues? You have been diagnosed with adrenal fatigue or all at the very least the symptoms seem to fit. Your energy levels have dropped off significantly over the years and it’s especially problematic during afternoons.
However, there is no such thing as adrenal fatigue. Unless you have Addison’s disease, your adrenal glands are working as intended. It’s the signaling upstream that is the problem.
Adrenal glands don’t excessively secrete cortisol to the point where they can’t produce unless damaged. This is the finding by the vast majority of scientific research. So why do adrenal fatigue support formulations work? It’s because the effective formulas are resetting the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis (HPA axis) just as the vitamins, minerals and herbs previously mentioned.
Whether we referred to this as Adrenal Fatigue or HPA Axis Dysfunction, the best natural remedies combine:
B-VITAMINS, MAGNESIUM, ADAPTOGENIC HERBS, CRITICAL AMINO ACIDS LIKE GABA.
Why is this distinction important? If only your cortisol levels are tested a patient can get a false negative for “adrenal fatigue” or worse. Then the patient is given cortisol that might exacerbate the situation. This is one more reason to always choose well-formulated herbal based supplements rather than synthetic stimulating or suppressing cortisol drugs.
Cortisol plays a critical role in sleep, stress and inflammation. Our cortisol levels should be highest when we first awake so we are alert and then it tapers off quickly. When perceived stress or chronic inflammation occurs, cortisol secretion is initiated. During times of stress it boosts our system in a threatening situation. Where there is chronic inflammation, cortisol reduces the inflammatory response to protect us from the aging process. Unfortunately sleep is interrupted when cortisol is secreted anytime other then early in the day.
There are four triggers causing HPA axis imbalance between these three glands mistakenly referred to as, “adrenal fatigue,” according to Dr. Thomas Guilliams, an expert the field of Molecular Immunology.
- Perceived Stress
- Inflammation primarily in the gut caused by small bacteria or candida overgrowth
- Sugar Dysregulation
- Circadian Dysregulation
While this topic deserves a deeper dive, the important takeaway is that the HPA axis includes a set of neurotransmitters with self-regulating feedback loops. When the body isn’t in balanced, the pathways either no longer result in cortisol secretion or the cells become cortisol insensitive like a diabetic in the presence of too much insulin. This is the body’s system of checks and balances.
To address the four triggers, incorporate stress-reducing behaviors like mediation, yoga, essential oils and supplements like Zen Calm and Zen Sleep. Begin by reducing inflammation in the gut by eating a healthy diet reducing sugar and eliminating rancid vegetable oils. Try to get outside and take in natural light and stay away from your computer screen late at night.
Available for purchase
Stress-Induced Stomach Pain- The Problem Might Be Your Gut!
Digestive discomfort, especially after a meal, can be distressing. If you find yourself experiencing stress-induced stomach pain, it’s essential to address it effectively. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to manage this condition: After eating, it’s not uncommon to experience
Can Supplements Assist in Managing Fatty Liver Disease?
Fatty liver disease, a condition where fat accumulates in the liver cells, can have far-reaching effects on one’s health. But can supplements be the answer to this prevalent concern? Let’s explore. Understanding Fatty Liver Disease: A Closer Look: Fatty liver
Are Probiotics the Key to Optimal Gut Health?
Probiotics have garnered significant attention for their potential to revolutionize gut health. But do they live up to the hype? In this blog, we’ll unravel the science behind probiotics for gut health and explore whether they are indeed the key
What’s the Best Liver Detox Supplement for Your Well-Being?
Your liver is a remarkable organ, tirelessly working to detoxify your body, metabolize nutrients, and keep you healthy. However, in our modern world filled with toxins and processed foods, it often needs a helping hand. In this blog, we’ll explore
Unlock Nature’s Healing Power & Reclaim Your Digestive Health
More and more people are talking about gut health. This topic has gained popularity as digestive problems become more common. The term “leaky gut” has also gained attention over time. It describes a condition that affects the gaps in the
Solving Thrombosis Without Statin Drugs
Thrombosis is a blockage of veins and or arteries due to blood clots. These obstructions can be severe and may lead to heart attack, stroke, or pulmonary embolism. This is commonly treated by the pharmaceutical industry with “blood thinners” often