Are Your Adrenals Exhausted?

Where are my adrenals, and why do I need them?

The adrenals are two small glands, one sitting on the top of each kidney. They have a number of important functions, notably maintaining vital metabolic processes such as the management of blood sugar levels and regulation of inflammation, and they control the body’s ‘fight or flight’ response to stress. In the 21st century this latter function is particularly relevant, as our lives are filled with physical, emotional and psychological stresses which stimulate the adrenals to release hormones to help us cope with the additional demands being placed on our system. If these pressures are unremitting the effect is cumulative; adrenaline, which is produced in the bone marrow, becomes in increasingly short supply and the end result is a state of burnout.

How can I tell if they are becoming exhausted?

As the adrenals have such a measure of control over all metabolic functions there is no body system that is immune from the ill effects of adrenal exhaustion. Apart from the usual symptoms of overwhelming fatigue and inability to handle stress there are many other effects on the nervous system, such as hypersensitivity to light and sounds, insomnia, memory problems, anxiety, negative feelings, depression and panic attacks. The immune system is severely compromised and  infections and allergies are commonplace. Inflammation – the body’s self-repair mechanism – can go out of control. The digestive system shows signs of distress; as the digestive tract dries out there is indigestion and constipation; nutrients are no longer efficiently absorbed. Other common effects are weight loss or gain, muscle weakness, dizziness, hypoglycemia, headaches and hyperpigmentation of the skin.

Help!  What can be done to restore my adrenal function?

Ayurveda recognises the situation as symptomatic of Vata imbalance. It is a situation of extremes in which all systems are affected – a ‘domino’ effect. The dry mucus membranes throughout the system are in urgent need of restoration. As is invariably the case in any Ayurvedic treatment, a plan has to be tailor-made to cater for the individual. However, there are certain essentials which will be incorporated into any such regime:

• A daily routine has to be established to manage the individual symptoms.
• Appropriate dietary advice is given. A Kapha producing diet is utilised to facilitate the production of healthy mucus, and attention is given to when, as well as what to eat.
• The biorhythmic balance and circadian rhythms are restored through Yoga exercises and Pranayama practice.
• Herbal medicines are used to balance the hormones and tone the adrenals.
• There is an emphasis throughout on cellular rejuvenation.

Depending on the individual situation, the restoration of adrenal balance can take weeks or months as so many body systems can be involved, but it is more than worthwhile. The consequences of overlooking the body’s calls for help can be severe.