Personalized Adrenal Support & Stress Management in Pittsburgh

Our adrenal glands (stress glands) developed in early humans to handle acute, severe, life-threatening stressors, such as running from a saber tooth tiger, or chasing down prey. They responded by making adrenaline, and then cortisol to raise our pulse and blood pressure, and to divert blood flow to muscles to ready our bodies for action. This stress response was usually followed by a recovery period to rest and restore. Although we don’t face as many life-threatening stressors in modern times, we are faced with chronic persistent stressors that include work, family, finances, constant availability, technology, traffic, etc. These stressors are not life threatening but are present every day and don’t allow for rest and recovery periods. Because of this, the adrenal glands may continue to overproduce the stress hormone cortisol (early stages of adrenal fatigue). Over time, the adrenal glands can wear out and not be as effective at generating cortisol and the other adrenal hormones (pregnenolone, DHEA, testosterone, estrogen)(later stages of adrenal fatigue). Note that this is different from Addison’s disease, or adrenal failure, which is a more dramatic shut down of adrenal function in response to infections or autoimmunity.

The best supplements for adrenal fatigue depend upon whether you are in the earlier or later stages of adrenal fatigue. In general “adaptogens” like ashwaganda, magnolia are helpful for the early stages when a lot of cortisol is being produced. Other adaptogens like rhodiola, cordyceps, and ginseng may be more helpful in the later stages when the adrenal glands are struggling to make enough cortisol. General vitamin support with vitamin C, B vitamins, magnesium, etc. can be helpful as well, to support normal adrenal function. It is important to be evaluated by a healthcare provider so that you are taking the appropriate supplementation for your stage of adrenal fatigue.

Once again, the symptoms depend upon whether you are in the earlier or later stages of adrenal fatigue. In the earlier stages, women may feel wired, may have trouble falling and staying asleep at night, but tired in the morning, or afternoon.  Weight gain, irritability and anxiety are common due to higher cortisol levels.

In the later stages of adrenal fatigue, pervasive fatigue may be present. Women may notice that they cannot recover from exertion and constant feelings of being wired and tired.  Frequent or prolonged viral illnesses or sinus infections may also occur, as well as cravings for salt and/or sugar.

In women, it is also possible to see menstrual irregularities; adrenal fatigue often exacerbates the symptoms of menopause and perimenopause.

Adrenal hormones can be tested in several ways. First saliva testing can be done to assess cortisol levels throughout the day and before bed.  The ideal test is to complete 4 levels – morning, noon, evening, and bedtime.  The cortisol should be highest in the morning and follow a normal curve where it drops throughout the day and is low at bedtime.  In addition, blood testing can be done to assess the levels of other adrenal hormones such as pregnenolone, DHEAS, and even testosterone and estrogen.  A complete assessment by a provider proficient in interpreting these levels is necessary to develop the best regimen for healing and for identifying if further testing is needed to assess for more serious adrenal conditions like Cushing’s syndrome, or Addison’s disease.

An optimal diet for supporting adrenal health includes balanced meals with plenty of whole foods. Emphasize lean proteins, healthy fats, complex carbohydrates, and plenty of fruits and vegetables. Reducing sugar, caffeine, and processed foods is also beneficial. Staying hydrated and eating regular meals to maintain steady blood sugar levels are key strategies.

In addition to the dietary changes mentioned above, managing the body’s stress response is crucial. First, it is important to eliminate any unnecessary stressors that can be avoided.  Second, mitigating the response of the body/adrenals to stress through techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, yoga, etc. can be very helpful.  Daily exercise is a great way for the body to let go of the effects of stress.  Finally, sleep is critical in detoxing our emotions and healing the adrenals overnight.  Going to bed by 10 and getting a solid 7-9 hours of sleep is optimal.