Posted by Kay Curtis
The adrenal glands, stress handling glands that are located on top of the kidneys, act as the control center for over 50 hormones which are involved in a large number of physiological functions in the body. They produce hormones in response to stress and have an effect on the body’s metabolism (the chemical processes that let you stay alive and the rate at which you burn fat and calories) blood flow, and regulate water and electrolytes (sodium chloride, potassium, calcium) in the body.
These hormones also control blood sugar (how hungry you get and carb cravings), natural inflammatory and anti-inflammatory responses (aches, pains and cardiovascular problems), and immune system response (illness and autoimmune). Steroid hormones, also produced by the adrenals, determine your overall strength, energy, and stamina.
Stress is a natural and necessary response when challenged with the pressures of living or when confronted with danger. When we are unable to rid ourselves of stress, the adrenals increase the levels of the stress hormone cortisol. High cortisol levels from ongoing stress can create changes in:
●● Appetite, food cravings
●● Energy levels
●● Muscle mass and bone density
●● Mood
●● Immune response
●● Memory and learning
Many other hormones, including thyroid and sex hormones, are affected by adrenal stress. Good luck to the women that heads toward menopause with adrenal problems. It will be hell. But there are ways to help the adrenals function properly.
1. Get enough sleep. Sometime, our adrenal health is so poor, it interferes with being able to do this. You really need help if that’s the case.
2. Exercise. Yes, exercise. Walking is good and so is a weight bearing routine. Hard core, hysterical, maniacal Boot Camps are actually not good for you, because they put too much stress on the adrenals.
3. Eat right. Quit eating carbs and sugar. I’m sorry – did you think I wasn’t going to say that? This is one of the most important things you need to do for every gland and organ in your body.
4. Breathe. Stress makes us tend to hold our breath or have shallow breathing. Deep breaths help you deal with the stress when it gets intense.
5. Take whole food supplements to support your adrenals like:
Drenamin, Adrenal Complex and Rhodiola Ginseng for Adrenal Support
Cataplex B and Gymnema for Blood Sugar Support and Carb Cravings
Cataplex G and Kava for Daily Stress
6. Have fun! Play Twister with your friends! Watch the Big Bang Theory! This will really make you feel great.
These recommendations are for the reduction of stress only. They are not intended as treatment or prescription for any disease, or as a substitute for regular medical care.