What Is Adrenal Fatigue?

So what is adrenal fatigue?  You’ve probably heard the term, and may feel like it may be something that is happening to you.  For example, do you suffer from burnout or lengthy  exhaustion for no obvious reason?  Here are the basics behind what is adrenal fatigue to help you better understand them.

The adrenal glands first off are small pyramid shaped organs that sit atop each kidney in the lower back.  The adrenals release their own ’stress hormones’ in response to certain situations or environmental conditions, and control the release of many other important hormones in the body such as DHEA, estrogen and testosterone.  Their primary function is to prime the system to deal with life-threatening, stressful, or pressure-filled circumstances.  They largely determine the energy level available for the necessary response.

In our fast paced society, an estimated 75% of individuals suffer from adrenal fatigue some point in their lives.  This occurs when the glands can no longer keep up with the pace of the outputting stress hormones, or when they no longer respond to repeated demands that they’ve heard too many times before.  Signs and symptoms may include severe fatigue, lightheadedness upon standing, depression and irritability, lack of sex drive, exhaustion and general malaise.  Adrenal fatigue is often associated with intense or prolonged stress, life crisis, trauma, and chronic illness. Other factors include poor lifestyle choices such as substance abuse, an improper diet and too little or irregular sleep.

The functioning and well being of your adrenals is extremely important, especially in emergency situations.  Poorly functioning, and overtaxed adrenal glands can lessen your ability to deal effectively with crisis situations.  Healthy adrenals also help the body to endure long periods of physical and mental exertion during work or exercise.  it is the job of your adrenal glands to react to stress in a balanced manner so that one’s response is appropriate to the situation.

The adrenal glands also signal the storage and/or release of carbohydrates and fats, the conversion of fats and proteins into energy, along with the distribution of stored fat on the body. They are involved in blood sugar regulation, cardiovascular function, gastrointestinal function, and in controlling blood pressure.  The adrenals also playing a part in sexual interest and response – so poorly functioning adrenals can really put a damper on things by increasing fat storage on your belly while making you disinterested in the whole process altogether!

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