Who Else Wants Help For Adrenal Exhaustion? Adrenal Support For Adrenal Stress.
Mar 20th, 2009 by Kalidasa
I covered 30 symptoms of adrenal fatigue in an earlier article, so I’ve been asked what to do to heal adrenal exhaustion. Adrenal stress is one of the biggest issues in peoples health that I have seen in my practice. It isn’t hard to bring them back up with proper care. The hard part for most people is the change in diet that is necessary.
There are different levels of what you can do for the adrenals. It depends on how bad things are, what you can afford — some of the better supplements are expensive, and what you are willing to do.
Adrenal dysfunction primarily comes from diet and emotional stress. We’ll start with diet.
Adrenal Dysfunction And Diet
The adrenals are the base line energy for the body. In Chinese medicine they call it kidney chi. They also say that cold food and drinks are hard on kidney chi and should be avoided.
One of the most important avoidance’s is processed foods which includes all forms of sugar (there are exceptions, I’ll talk about theme another time). Sugar includes honey, maple syrup, fructose, dried fruit, fruit juice, carrot juice, sweet fruits like red apples, oranges and bananas, and any other kinds of ‘natural sugar.’ The body metabolizes all of these sugars the same way it does white sugar. And, all put severe stress on the adrenals.
All processed foods like bread and noodles, even whole wheat or other alternate grains are also to be avoided. If grains are ground up they are processed and will metabolize in almost as bad a way as white sugar. It doesn’t matter if the original form was whole or not. White rice is also out unless you get the low glycemic kind. Thick whole oats are okay, but the steel cut ones aren’t.
If you’re really committed, you could give up grains all together. That will help a lot. This is really hard for most people to do, so only try this if you are really ready for something like that. Minimizing grains is another option. Eating boiled potatoes and sweet potatoes (not baked) can help you too feel full.
I’ve made it a life practice to not eat grains at all. I only eat animal protein, vegetables and a little fruit. This is called the paleolithic diet since that is what our most early ancestors ate. It is what our bodies evolved eating, and it’s what is best for optimum health.
Animal protein is essential to bringing up the adrenals. If you are vegetarian then things are going to be much harder to correct and will take much longer. I’ll write on how to do that if anyone wants me to.
Animal protein means fowl (chicken, turkey), eggs, fish and limited red meat like pork and beef. Different bodies can tolerate different types of animal protein, but that is a long discussion. Most body types do fine with fowl, eggs and fish, but rotate the types of fish you eat.
You can also use protein powders like whey and egg white protein. These are really good for when you are in a hurry.
It is stressful on the adrenals to go hungry, so it’s important to eat when your body asks for food. The problem happens an hour or so after hunger hits, when you stop feeling hungry. It’s an adrenal hormone that brings up the blood sugar causing you to not feel so hungry anymore.
Also, you should have animal protein every time you eat anything. The only exception might be if you were to have nuts as a snack to keep from being hungry. Almonds are the best as they are mostly fat, and the little bit of carbohydrate they have in them won’t cause a spike in the blood sugar. Cashews are not as good as they have a high carbohydrate content. Peanuts are not nuts, they are carbohydrate. They should only be eaten with protein.
Adrenal Supplements
Adrenal support in the form of supplement adrenal is a big subject. Here are three protocols with a little variation.
If your adrenals are in really bad shape you can take whole desiccated adrenal cortex, but only for a short time. Taking it for too long causes the adrenals to burn out even more. One an hour for five to seven days is one protocol that will kick start the adrenals. Stop taking it three or four hours before bed so you can sleep. You’ll feel pretty good in a day or two, but the adrenals are not yet in good shape. They need more nutrition to heal completely.
If you use the desiccated adrenal, take it for a few days, then switch to another protocol. I know this is repeating myself, but it’s important.
The cheapest nutrition is a few B vitamins and an amino acid. B6 is probably the most important one since most people in the world have a deficiency in it. The reason is that the body doesn’t have the necessary enzymes to convert B6 into its usable form. Red bell pepper has those enzymes if you juice or eat a lot of raw vegetables. About a half of a medium sized pepper a day is what it takes. The seeds are even higher in the enzymes. Otherwise, you can get pyrodoxyl 5 phosphate, or P5P. This is the enzyme activated form of B6. Five tablets a day with food in two doses is optimal. The ingredients on most will say either 50 or 34 mg, or something close to that. The numbers are the same, different parts are measured.
Two other B vitamins are pantothenic acid and niacinamide. The dossage is 300 mg per day with food, morning or evening, just pick the time you’d like to take it. Both usually come in 500 mg tablets, it’s okay to take the whole tablet.
Note: Be sure to get niacinamide and not niacin. The later causes a skin flush that is rather unpleasant and not necessary.
Vitamin C is also needed. 5000 mg a day. Break this one up into three or four doses, with food.
B12 is the final one. 400 to 600 mcg a day in two doses, also with food. Get the enzyme activated form if you can, it just works better.
The amino acid that helps the adrenals is found in mushrooms, so you can eat them raw or supplement with tyrosine. 500 mg in the morning will probably make you feel great.
These supplements are available in most health food stores for a reasonable price. You might not be able to find the adrenal cortex though. I use one from Standard Process called Whole Desiccated Adrenal. You can probably find it online even though it goes against Standard Process’s terms to sell over the internet, but people do it anyway.
The best supplements for the adrenals are from a company called Apex Energetics. It is against their terms to sell their products unless you are a licensed medical practitioner, but again, people do it anyway. Adrenastim and adrenacalm are the main ones. They are in a cream form which you apply topically. They come with a little spoon for measuring, a slightly rounded spoon full is a dose. In other words, not much. Apply it to an area where there isn’t any hair to impede absorption. Use the adrenastim twice a day, morning and around noon. It can keep you up at night, so avoid taking it too late. And, use adrenacalm three times a day.
If the adrenals are in pretty bad shape you will need adaptocrine. Four tablets a day in three doses if you can remember, two if you have trouble remembering to take supplement three times.
Another good protocol is herbal. I only use the highest quality herbs, and the only two companies that have good herbs that I know of are MediHerb and Kroeger Herbs. I’ve only used MediHerb, so I’ll give those dosages.
Use the liquid herbs from MediHerb, not only are they better, but they are more cost effective. Licorice root, the high grade, 4 ml per day, and Siberian Ginseng 11 ml per day. You can just mix them up and take them in two dosages on an empty stomach is best. This is for the first few weeks. After you feel better you will want to change the herbs, usually in four weeks or so.
Ashwaganda (withania) and Rehmannia are for when the adrinals are a little stronger but not yet fully healed. Mix the two with just a little more ashwaganda than rehmannia and take 15 ml per day, also on an empty stomach.
That’s the basics. There is a lot more to the subject, but you could easily get yourself back in decent shape in one to six weeks. Twelve weeks at the most. It all depends on age and how desperate the adrenals are.
Feel free to ask questions about this. Using the comment box with this post is the best as I’ll get those sooner than an email.
You can learn more about the adrenal glands from wikipedia.
[...] Continued here: Who Else Wants Help For Adrenal Exhaustion? Adrenal Support For Adrenal Stress. [...]
dear kalidissa i have purchased your self adjusting book and i practising it to self adjust. for years know i have been visiting chiropractors spending lots, i always wondered why my neck and upper back were always going out i never thought my diet was to blaim i do eat to much bread and processed food,could it really improve if i cut these out. i always thought the way i sleep is the problem and i am a big worrier.i have ordered three adrenal supplements from the alternative pharmacy in the us to see if these help.sometimes after visiting a chiropractor to have my neck put back it goes again in a week or so i am looking forward to adjusting myself. i am having some trouble with the collar bone one should i hear something click, thanks again jean
Hi Jean,
Worry and other emotions is another cause of adrenal stress. Brain chemistry is often the culprit there. I’ll write about that sometime.
Eating processed foods, especially bread, almost killed me. The problems processed foods cause vary from person to person. Mine manifested as a blockage in the intestines. They really are that bad, and are the main cause of most major illensses like heart disease, cancer, diabetes, etc.
You are not likely to hear a click or pop when adjusting with this gentle method. Some really sensitive types might feel something move or even feel a little click when it goes back in.
Thanks for the adrenal info. I’ve been realizing over the last few months that i’ve probably got adrenal issues. I’m wondering what you think of the adrenal extracts? You briefly mentioned to not use them long term. Why is this? A lot of people have said that you need a long term treatment with these sometimes to give your adrenals a rest. I’ve been debating starting Isocort (adrenal cortex) but I think I’ll wait till I get my cortisol saliva test figured out.
Thanks
Thank you for writing all these wonderful articles on adrenal health. I’m 28 yrs old and I’ve been experiencing a lot of the symptoms associated with hypothyroidism and adrenal exhaustion and I was looking for natural remedies. This article and many of your others really helped to clear up many of my questions. My next step will be to research a naturopathic or homeopathic physician. Again thank you for this information.
Hi Finn,
Too much adrenal cortex can cause the adrenals to over amp which will burn them out in a different way. The highest dosage I’ve given is one per hour for up to a week — usually for five days. At that level, the adrenals will come up very quickly and you’ll probably feel great in a very short time. Then switch to a different protocol that is less intense. Another way to take adrenal cortex is three a day for up to a month. One thing you may notice if you do either of these is that you feel like you have more energy than you actually do. You may find yourself overdoing it and feeling really tired afterward.
If you have sleep issues, then your cortisol is probably off. Either it is high when you go to bed — trouble getting to sleep, or it is low in the night — waking and not able to get back to sleep.
Hi Angela,
Homeopathy won’t work with adrenal fatigue as it’s a chemical issue, specifically a deficiency. This can be helped only with herbs and/or supplements. I find that using both is the best.
Hypothyroidism happens automatically when the adrenals are low. Actually, I need to write an article on this. The main cause isn’t the thyroid, it’s a deficiency of selenium. The thyroid probably works fine, putting out plenty of T4, but the usable form is T3 which is converted by an enzyme that cleaves off a section of T4. That enzyme is selenium dependent. The maximum safe dosage for selenium is 400 mcg a day though more is often needed.
Thanks for the input, Kalidasa. Just to clarify a little bit: In your opinion are adrenal cortex products helpful in healing the adrenals overall? Or do you recommend other protocol? Especially on the “Stop the Thyroid Madness” website, people seem to have good results with physiologic doses of cortisol (cortex) or hydrocortisone. I’m a little hesitant because I don’t want my adrenals to become dependent on anything, I want to heal them. I should mention also that I’m hypothyroid as well, and I started a small dose of Naturethroid a few weeks ago. It makes a difference, but it’s not the whole picture for me. When I take Naturethroid regularly and try to ramp up my dose a bit, I start to feel kind of hyper, and this is partly why I suspect adrenals. They aren’t strong enough yet to support the thyroid hormones I need.
Thanks
Finn
Hi Finn,
My mentor puts it this way though the analogy is a bit intense. Say you’re driving a horse pulling something heavy and you come to a hill with railroad tracks at the top. You get the horse to the top and he collapses right on the track, and there’s a train coming. That’s the state some people’s adrenals get in — a big train wreck about to happen. What you have to do first is get the horse off the tracks, and the only way to do that is to whip him. That’s what the adrenal cortex does, whip the adrenals.
Now that you’ve avoided getting hit by the train you no longer have to whip the horse. What the adrenals need now is rest and support. Supporting herbs and supplements, like those mentioned in the article, are what’s needed next.
I only have to know that someone’s adrenals are down to know that they are hypothyroid, that is automatic. Simple biochemistry, adrenals down = thyroid down. Always. (I don’t say always very often.)
BTW, if you take adrenal cortex, be sure to stop taking it a few hours before bed or you might not be able to sleep.
This is interesting, thanks for the responses. Do you have a certain way of telling whether or not the adrenals need this “whipping” or not? I think I’ll probably try a very low dose of cortex for a few weeks and see how I feel.
On a side note: have you ever heard of twitching or sudden jerk movements of the body to be symptoms of adrenal or thyroid problems? I’ve been experiencing this for several months and it is pretty unsettling, not knowing if this is a sign of a serious neurological problem or an easily fixable problem.
Thanks
Finn
Hi Finn,
There are ways to tell what the best protocol for your adrenals might be, but I’d have to see you to tell. There is also a saliva test that shows the levels of circulating cortisol at different times of day that can indicate the level of adrenal exhaustion. However, a low dose of adrenal cortex for up to four weeks probably won’t hurt and is at least worth a try.
The twitching/jerking can be caused by many things. Adrenal exhaustion is one. Let me know if taking the adrenal cortex doesn’t clear that up. One of the other main possibilities is a calcium issue. That’s much more complex than just taking more calcium though that wouldn’t hurt.
Kalidasa, thanks so much for the responses. I actually have a saliva test coming in the mail soon, I’ll let you know how it turns out.
-Finn
Hi Finn,
Glad to hear you’re getting that test done. It’s really the only way to know for sure what’s going on. There are other tests, but they only indicate that the adrenals are probably deficient.
I am having problems with mild dehydration and weight loss related to my adrenal fatigue. In the morning, until afternoon or evening, I seem to urinate as much as I drink. How can this be rectified? Why the weight loss, although my strength doesn’t seem to be decreasing, yet? How can I tell if I’m getting too much salt?
HI Kalidasa,
I read your article in adrenal exhaustion and felt you hit the nail on he head. I have had periods of being quite sick sporadically thru the last few years and recently realized it was stress related. It always started with a digusting taste in my mouth, like feces, then within 12 hours I would be sick vomiting or diahrrea or both at the same time, for hours at a time. I would miss work for a minimum of 2 days every time this happened.
I have been a proponent of Mediherb and Standard Process Products and some of those helped a bit. I haven’t seen a dr since I realized it was stress related but just finished taking the adrenal dessicated tablets from Standard Process. I am trying to take the licorice root and siberian ginseng but honestly cannot stand the taste and can’t get it down.
I am hoping you can offer some suggestions in pill form (I know the Siberian Ginseng (Eulethro) comes in pill form. Since I don’t feel sick and actually feel well should I move on to taking the Withania Complex along with the Rehemania Complex?
Thank you for your help.
Sincerely,
Jeff
Hi Tom,
It isn’t that easy to tell from your symptoms what you have going on. It could be a toxicity issue, probably heavy metals or excess acid.
Salt is needed by the body. The issue with salt isn’t the excess sodium, but not enough potassium to balance it out mostly by eating fresh fruits and vegetables.
Jeff,
Try Tribulus from Mediherb. It’s for phase three adrenal exhaustion — the worst. Withania is for phase two adrenal exhaustion, really good for people who get that 3 or 4 in the afternoon sleepiness.
Kalidassa,
Thank you again for the info. How long do you recommend I take the Tribulus for?
Thanks,
Jeff
Kalidassa,
With the research I’ve done and the great help you have provided me, I have a question for one of my cousin’s who is very sick.
For about a year or so now, he frequently gets attacks where he essentially starts suffocating and ends up in cardiac arrest. At that point he has to stab himself with multiple Epipens just to stay alive. He has been to multiple hospitals across the country and participated in different studies with no luck. He has been told that he has a very high level of aluminum but that is it…..no solution. He has lost his job, benefits, everything. The stress all throughout his life has been at an extreme for a long time now.
Through talking with you about my issues, I started thinking about him and if anything could be done to help him. Obviously, he is not going to make it very long with the frequency of cardiac arrests.
Any advice you could provide would be appreciated beyond belief.
Thank you,
Jeff
Jeff,
Tribulus for at least a month. Start with one or two in the morning, and build to between three and five. It can be pretty intense, that’s why you want to start slow.
Your cousin obviously has some very serious issues. Aluminum tends to go to the lungs, so that could be the issue. Impossible to tell without seeing him. There are lots of chelation agents available, but it’s hard to know which one to use. In general I like fulvic acid, not a typo, it’s spelled fulvic. And, it’s not too expensive, about $30 a quart. The dossage is one ounce a day for most people, however very toxic individuals can not tollerate near that much, a detox reaction happens. This can be just about anything. One client gave it to her husbnd after chemo got rid of his cancer, and only one teaspoon a day caused his skin to itch unbearably.
Almost definitely he is overly acidic, another toxicity. There is a calcium water from Water Oz that will bring down acid levels very quickly. The issue with it is that you can’t go too fast. a quarter cup twice a day is the max, and only for very acidic bodies. Again, I can’t give you better suggestions without seeing him. He might not be able to tolerate more than a tablespoon full a day.
These are only general guidelines. I can not possibly give good recommendations without seeing people. And, these statements are not by any means a prescription, the FDA hasn’t approved any of them. Had to do the disclaimer on this one.
Kalidassa,
Thank you for the help, I certainly understand that not everything can be diagnosed over email.
I am located in New England and my cousin in Ohio so getting out west would be difficult. Is there anyone in particular on the East Coast that would be able to help him that you may know well and could recommend? He is so bad that maybe even a trip out west would be called for to see you. He is a great guy with a great family and is just very sick and depressed and it seems that he has just about given up.
Please let me know when you can.
Thanks,
Jeff
Jeff,
I won’t be back till May 8. Maybe we can do a phone session when I get back. Also, I have a friend who knows a lot more healers around the country that I do. I’ll ask him about people closer to you.
You can have him email me too, there is a contact form tab at the top of the blog.
Kalidasa,
I was wondering how long you think it takes to heal the Adrenals. I had saliva testing done and my cortisol is low. I just started ISOCORT with a low dosage of l/2 pellet at breakfast and lunch. I read about these other products, like dessicated adrenal, and glandulars. I also read about the B-Vitamins, C, Tyrosine, A, E, manganese, zine, chromium, selenium and other trace elements but how do I know what protocol to follow to heal my adrenals? My doctor says it could take up to a year or more to heal them which means I won’t lose any weight till then? Are the glandulars or dessicated adrenal a better option towards healing the adrenals more effectively?
Thank you,
Angela
Angela,
What time of day was your cortisol low? The best saliva test is done four times during the day. Cortisol should be high at night, the test is usually done upon awakening, and it should be low the rest of the day. Also, how low was it?
I usually do an applied kinesiology test to determine what protocol is needed, there are so many. It usually only takes 6 – 12 weeks though a really bad case can take up to six months. And, most people need to continue with a maintenance supplement.
What are your symptoms? Maybe I can tell how far they are depleted from them.
Thanks for the information! It is really helpful. I drink 6 cups of coffee a day. I know it is bad. Does too much coffee hurt your adrenals?
Coffee can be really hard on the adrenals, worse for some than others. One sign of really wiped out adrenals is if caffeine doesn’t cause the usual buzz. And, it can be very toxic, the toxins cause the withdraw headaches when you quit.
Found your interesting website. Am having a problem with 5th Cervical and resulting pain in right shoulder and arm. Chiropractor suggested adrenal problem. Also said I have a hiatal hernia which causes reflux. Overall tired feeling (could be result of pain). I’m 64. Can I turn this around with your regimen?
Also have a salty taste in my mouth much of the time. I have upped water consumption.
Thank you
Hi
Thank you for all the information you have put on the web about adrenal fatigue. Iwent to the doctors telling them that my back hurt after I ate sugar and they told me it couldn’t be related! After eating a lot of chocolate at Easter and feeling really bad I knew I had to do something. I’ve been trying to avoid sugar for about 10 days now (and have cut caffeine intake to 3 a day). The thing is I’ve been getting other symptoms such as vivid dreams, really thirsty (dry mouth) and feeling quite emotional. Is this normal when someone starts this diet and will I start to feel better soon?
Thanks
Kalidasa,
Thank you for all your useful information. I do see a holistic practitioner occassionally not as often as I would like due to cost. I am struggling on removing grains from my diet and know that it is something I have to do as I suffer from severe bloating, gas and heartburn when I eat them. It is just very hard when my husband and 3 children can all eat them. I get extremely tired around 12-1 pm everyday and after a couple hours I get my second wind. My dr has me on Maca and I have been taking it for quite some time and it used to work very well for this but lately it has not and I am wondering if my adrenals need something new/more? I started exercising in January and exercise 5-6 days a week for an hour and have not lost any weight either and my energy levels still seem low and the last few months my PMS has also been rather intense. Any insight would be much appreciated!
Thank you,
Traci
Erma,
I believe that the body wants to heal, all you have to do is give it the opportunity. There are a lot of things that can be done for you I am sure.
Here is an article on C5 and how sugar relates to it going out chronically. http://selfadjustingtechnique.com/back-pain/neck-pain-c5-the-most-common-cause-and-what-you-can-do-about-it/
Alison,
Unfortunately, doctors don’t know much about adrenal fatigue. They know the biochemistry, and when I point it out to them they are like, “ooooh, I see.” They are just starting to include a class or two on natural healing techniques in some medical schools. Perhaps one day we’ll have a Golden Age where health is looked at as something to keep rather than get back to.
There are many things that can be causing your symptoms. When you feel thirsty, you are already dehydrated. There is a technique in Applied Kinesiology that can help that greatly. Let me know if you still have that symptom in a couple of weeks when I am back. We can do a quick phone session for that if you need it.
Traci,
Exercise doesn’t burn enough calories to lose weight. Estrogens are what cause fat deposition, and most people’s livers don’t break estrogens down correctly, so they are always around causing fat to deposit. Here’s an article on that issue. http://selfadjustingtechnique.com/wp-admin/post.php?action=edit&post=8
And, here’s an article on the biochemistry of losing weight, don’t worry, it isn’t that complicated. http://selfadjustingtechnique.com/wp-admin/post.php?action=edit&post=29
The bloting and gas are usually caused by a candida overgrowth. Lactic acid yeast, supplement or in real sourkraut, can help relieve that issue. I need to write an article on that, it’s a big issue for millions. Also, enzymes might help, I like Multizyme from Standard Process.
Fatigue in the afternoon for a couple of hours like you get is usually adrenal fatigue. My guess is that you are in phase 3 adrenal exhaustion which needs speciffic supplements and herbs. I am going to write another general article on those soon, but there is a lot of info here http://selfadjustingtechnique.com/adrenals/who-else-wants-help-for-adrenal-exhaustion-adrenal-support-for-adrenal-stress/
For the afternoon tirdness, Withania comples from Medi Herb, one to three 30 minutes before it usually hits you. And, yes, Maca might not be working for you any more.
Hi Kalidassa,
I hope all is well with you.
I am currently taking the Adrenal Dessicated by Standard Process and will be taking the Tribulus you recommended as a 2nd step. So that I can be prepared, could you advise as to what supplement I would need after the Tribulus? I just want to be prepared and avoid any shipping delays, etc.
Also, when I complete the entire protocol what would you recommend to maintain the adrenal health?
Thank you again,
Jeff
That can vary. How long till you finish the Tribulus? It would be good to talk to you, I have ways of telling what the best thing is. I am going to be back in the states in 10 days, or I can call you via skype if you need to know before that. My number will always be 510-295-4513. You can call now if you want, I get messages via email.
Kaldassa,p
Today is only my 3rd day taking the Tribulus. I would love to talk to you when you get back. I don’t think there is an urgency to talk before then though I do appreciate the offer.
Thank you again for all of your help.
Jeff
Hi Kalidasa,
So I got the results for my saliva/cortisol test. It indicates that my cortisol levels are in the “normal” range, but are on the upper limit for each of the six times it was tested. It also showed that I had a “normal” cortisol pattern, meaning highest in morning, then tapering off as the day goes on. There was one exception where I was above the “normal” range, and that was the 4 a.m. test. That could explain why I often wake up too early, and then have trouble getting good sleep afterwards. My DHEA levels were also measured, and they were the opposite; each time it was on the low end limit of the normal range. I’ve read that that is typical, if your cortisol is high, your dhea will be low, and vice versa.
So, I’m curious what your thoughts are on this. I have many symptoms of adrenal fatigue, but I seem to have highish cortisol. Are these mutually exclusive or not? I have been noticing that I feel kind of strangely “wired” and the high cortisol seems to make sense. I don’t feel overly tired or groggy in the morning, it’s usually the opposite; I can’t sleep in very much, though I know my body needs good sleep.
Thanks
Jeff,
Give me a call on the 9th or 10th. I plan on getting a phone right away. The number is 510 295 4513.
Finn,
I’m a little suspicious of the lab that did your test. Only a little though. Another possibility is that the medical idea of “normal” often exceds what is functional. Meaning that your highish cortosol levels probably still show adrenal fatigue. So, you might consider changing your diet, I suspect you’ve already done that? and taking some supplements.
Also, I need to get a video up soon on how to feel the adrenal glands. It isn’t hard, and if they hurt when you push on them, then there is likely something going on. Another test is the postural blood pressure test if you have a way of checking your blood pressure. It’s not 100 percent, but pretty close. You can find it here: http://selfadjustingtechnique.com/adrenals/how-do-you-really-know-if-you-are-healthy-a-simple-test/
K
I will do that, thank you
Kalidasa,
After doing some searching around my lab tests are making more sense. It suggests my Cortisol is on the high extreme of normal, and at 4 am it exceeds the normal range by a good bit. A lot of people are saying that high cortisol levels are a common symptom in certain stages of adrenal fatigue. My DHEA is the inverse: On the extreme low end of normal. Are you familiar with DHEA supplelmentation? I’m considering it, though I’m going to try Seriphos (phosphorylated L-Serine) first, as it’s touted as a good cortisol lowering agent.
You asked about diet. It’s a continual struggle, but I’m slowly getting better at cutting out grains/sugars, and I plan to stick to that. But i haven’t had a good run yet of eating really well for extended periods of time. I never touch caffeine, so at least I don’t have to worry about that.
Finn
Hi Kalidassa,
I hope things are going well with your new home and that the move went well!
I wanted to follow up about the protocol i’ve been on for my Phase III Adrenal Exhaustion. As you suggested I took the Adrenal Dessicated for the week and have been on Tribulus for 2.5 weeks, 5 per day. I have certainly noticed a feeling of being more “alive” and my symptoms of having to “go” urgently and / or vomitting have subsided.
I am hoping you can let me know how long to take the Tribulus for and when / what to change too after that. If you think a phone call may be better please let me know what time works for you (EST).
Also, I was wondering if you would be able to recommend any good healers in the northeast. Mainly for my cousin who has been deathly ill; you had mentioned it was a likely toxicity issue but I believe we talked just before your move.
I hope all is well and, of course, thanks again!
Jeff
Hi! Stumbled across your articles on Adrenal Fatigue and found them quite interesting!
I wonder if you could answer a few questions for me – I’m unemployed and uninsured at this point in my life (NOT a happy place) – was thinking of taking funds out of a retirement plan (which probably isn’t the best idea) to go to yet another doctor. I really hesitate because I’m sure I’m going to get the same runaround that I’ve gotten over the past 10 years.
For the past 10 years, I’ve had severe problems with ‘excessive daytime sleepiness’ – had sleep studies, wear a CPAP, etc. yet the ‘excessive sleepiness’ has failed to resolve (the CPAP has helped with the apneas though) – been prescribed amphetamines (which helped some) but I stopped taking them because the result of them wearing off was 10x worse than just being tired all the time…
I have steadily gained weight year after year, but haven’t significantly changed my diet – made attempts at losing weight over those years with minimal success.
When I got laid off last September I decided to make a concerted effort to lose weight. At the time I was 325 lbs. Joined a gym, started eating ‘right’ and exercising religiously (and HARD) – sometimes for up to 3 hours a day (but mostly 1-2 hours a day).
7 months later, I have managed to lose a grand total of 20 lbs. I have tried Weight Watchers (gained weight); low LOW carb eating plans (lost no weight) and my own reducing calorie intake programs – from 1800/day for a month or so, downward from there to 1500/day, etc. I am able to lose weight at 800 calories a day, but this is no place to be! I don’t eat a lot of carbs – can’t remember the last time I had bread, rice, pasta, etc. and mostly eat strawberries as fruit. I do eat animal protein and lots of veggies (broccoli, tomatoes, salads (spinach), zucchini, mushrooms, etc.)
I have a LOT of the symptoms of hypothyroid (fatigue, high blood pressure, LOW heart rate (Resting @53), low body temp, brain fog, etc. you name it, if its a symptom of hypothyroid I probably have it (no eyebrow loss though!). My blood work does not support a diagnosis of hypothyroid (latest TSH @ 2.85; Free T41.15; Free T3 @ 2.7).
I did the pupil test, but I thought that the pupils closed rather rapidly (though they never got REAL small). My long-winded question – would the adrenal fatigue explain the lack of weight loss? I’m getting really REALLY frustrated – to the point where I haven’t gone to the gym this week at ALL – I figure ‘what’s the point’ – it seems as though its nothing but a waste of an hour – I’m at my wits end!
I can’t say that I’m feeling very stressed out – while I AM unemployed I am collecting unemployment (for the time being anyway) and the job I got laid off from was FAR more stressful than simply worrying about not having enough money (I worked for a guy who was seriously mentally disturbed – so when I got my pink slip, I about fell over myself trying to get out of the building before he changed his mind).
Any suggestions would be most appreciated! I am DESPERATE to lose weight and its just not happening!
Hi Sue,
There could be a lot of things going on with you. Probably adrenal, but there are many other things that can make people tired. Toxicity is a big one these days.
Sleep apnea is often caused by weak adrenal glands too. Also, the thyroid goes down when the adrenals are down. And, there are many other reasons for hypothyroid besides the thyroid not functioning correctly.
Not able to lose weigh when you cut your calories down that far almost has to be liver metabolic detox. You can find information about that here: http://selfadjustingtechnique.com/detoxification/how-the-liver-handles-toxins-and-what-you-can-do-to-help-it/
My first guess for supplement needs for you would be: Selenium 400 mcg/D, magnesium 3-4 grams at bedtime, P5P (pyrodoxyl 5 phosphate) two twice a day and probably something else for glutathione production per that article.
And, you need to look into possible toxicity issues and infections.
Hi Kalidasa, I was suffering from brain fog and fatigue for about 6-8 months and assumed that Yeast was the main culprit. Now my brain fog is mostly gone thanks to colonics, probiotics and better nutrition. However, I still do not feel like my old self and symptoms like the following exist which made me think about AF:
1. Extreme exhaustion a day after moderate weight training
2. Waking up in the middle of the night (never had sleep issues)
I feel (2) is my main problem now as without sufficient sleep I end up tired in the morning. I wanted to avoid taking any sleep aids as I have never had this problem before. I don’t have a problem with falling asleep – its the waking up (around 3 AM) and then struggling to sleep again which is the problem. I am currently taking adaptocrine and have also started on Vitamin C (in the daytime). Would you have any ideas for better sleep?
regards,
ed
Hi Kalidasa,
I have watched myself gain 80lbs back after losing 80 in 2007. Now I have been working with a whole team of doctors, and endo, a cardio, a PCP, a Gyno and Neuro etc. Now I have other endocrine issues, including PCOS and an 8mm pit. tumor-status unknown as far as secretions go. I have been tested a lot, but I have been unhappy with my doctors interpretation of the tests and lack of proactivity. I have supected cushings, carcinoid, and my thyroid has been all over the place lately. i have been on 25mcg levoxyl since january (10mo) and the last 3 tests TSH has been 1.7, 2.3 and last week was 5.1. I did not know that adrenal fatigue is a guaranteed hypothyroid ticket. More recently I have been addicted to junk food with no nutritional value, cakes cookies chip and candy bars. and I know this is the worst thing for me, but it is hard to stop when eating them is what makes me want more. I did the pupil exam, and my pupils do constrict at first, but then they kind of struggle to stay constricted, they will dialate some and then try to return again. I have experinced every symptoms on your list at one time or another and many of them I suffer with daily. I have become irratable and totally antisocial. I suffer with major appetite issues, usually extreme hunger but I have times where food has no appeal to me. I times of have extreme fatigue where I cannot even move, and other times I am up into the wee hours of the night (3-4am) l am particularly disturbed with my attitude towards life recently. I have always been a give it my all very enthusiastic straight A student, neurotic about getting assignments done on time. and lately I am getting to class late, missing assignments, all the time knowing I “should” be caring but wondering why I don’t. In the past year I have suffered with tachycardia, hypertension, hypotension, diaherrea, constipation, fluctuating blood sugar, memory problems, worsening allergies (esp. respitory), irregular periods (BC has always taken care of that) anxiety The problem for me with getting a sure dxh tachycardia, hypertension, hypotension, diaherrea, constipation, fluctuating blood sugar, memory problems, worsening allergies (esp. respitory), irregular periods (BC has always taken care of that), bad PMS, worsening light sensitivity, and most recently digestive issues, gas, bloating, cramps and I even had 2 burps that tasted of feces…that was really disturbing,The problem for me lies with getting a sure dx. first of all, in a fit of rage about lack of a dx and my endos reluctance to recognize adrenal fatigue as a condition, I sent an angry email to her telling her she was off my case. I cannot belive I did that and have not had the courage yet to form an apology and ask for her to take me back. I have an appointment with a new endo in February, but now in the meantime I have no endo. I shot myself in the foot, and I know better than to write emails when I am angry, becuase I say things I regret. So my point is, although she would not recognize adrenal fatuigue as a dx, now I cannot ask her to order tests and I cannot afford to get them online. I hate my PCP. I transferred from peds late and have only seen her twice, but I do not like her attitude and am going to switch, but in the meantime she doesnt belive a word I say. I know that MD’s will refuse to recognize adrenal issues unless you have cushings or addisons, but it is so frusterating, becuase adrenal fatigue BECOMES addisons if not treated.I have a long history of high carb (good and bad carbs) and low protein dieting, I eat so much bread, crackers, pasta, rice, potatoes, oatmeal, oatbran..(if it is a carb I will eat it)..I am not a big red meat fan, fish is I will take it or leave it, chicken I like but I will usually just end up reaching for a carb. a lot of them are good carbs but still carbs. the more carbs I eat, the more protein packed foods and veggies seem to turn me off. I have been trying to get a lot more protein into my diet and reduce carbs, but I cant jump into it all at once. (yesterday I actually ate 100g of protein, that was HUGE for me), so I am really trying on my diet, the the junk cravings have not gone away yet..hoping that will happen. I read your supplement list, and purchase the following: adrenal cortex, P5P, niaminicide, tyrosine, siberean ginsing, licorice root, and gynema. I also take a small dose a chromium (1/2 of a 250mcg tab) my question to you, is it safe to start these without “lab evidence” of adrenal fatigue and just a strong gut feeling? I fiugred I know my body EXTREMELY well and the way I figure it is if I start them and start feeling worse or no better, i can always stop, and if I feel better that that was probably the issue. I have been living a miserable life for a year with no answers, this is the thing that has made the most sense all long, esp. considering my high carb lifestyle and my thyroid issues. So if I start the supplements and this happens to not actually be the issue, CAN I HURT/ DAMAGE ANYTHING OR MAKE ANYTHING WORSE??? sorry for the long post, but I am really excited becuase for the first time, I really think I have it here…I am also kind of lonely…forums have been very good for my recently antisocial attitude…it is sad b/c I am 23 and should be having the time of my life clubbin, paryting doing things that other people my age do..but hopefully someday I will get there!!! thanks for your help/advice in advance! hope to hear from you soon.
Carlie,
There are some serious issues that come with excess weight. High blood sugar (type two diabetes), brain chemistry imbalance and often adrenal fatigue are a few. Don’t despair though! Simply eating right and starting the process of losing weight will greatly reduce those issues.
In your case I would say that brain chemistry is one of the most important things to deal with. It is this imbalance that causes people to lose control of their eating habits. And, if there is rapid weight loss the issue can be intensified due to the lack of nutrients needed for brain chemicals.
The only supplement that you mention that can cause some damage is the adrenal cortex, and then only if you over do it.
Hi Kalidasa,
You provide a lot of information and it looks very specfic and interesting. I will try what you suggested when I have means to.
I am 59. I have had adrenal exhaustion nearly all my life, along with a very serious systemic candida til about 4 years ago, and very severe fibromyalgia since 1977.
In 1971 I virtually stopped sleeping. I think this has been causal in the fibromyalgia, which developed 6 years later.
I now have a costant condition of nearly always sleeping for less than 8 hours-even with drugs it’s often as little as 2 hours or staying awake all night. If I get 8+ hours of sleep I am pain-free. It rarely happens. I take a lot of things just to sleep.
I know adrenal exhaustion is the key. However, despite having a good diet except when I can’t afford it, I am so weak from fibromyalgia that have had to keep using caffeine in order to do any activity. Lately, I had terrble stress and found that vodka worked better. I take b-vitamins and C. I often cannot do all the protocols in recommended amounts as it’s expensive.
When I did have excellent nutrition it was not enough to change the problem one bit. I knoe the adrenal stimulants I have to use except the rare times I’ve slept enough are the problem. I hope the adrenal complex will help me. I’ll get it when I can. (the store bought kind and some I’ve been prescribed did nothing)
It sounds bad, but when you are in agony and you cannot get up and walk across the room or even breathe without a painkiller, what can you do?
I actually tried heroin many years ago, but it does not work for fibro-thank goodness! Alcohol often reduces the pain by up to 50% and nothing else works.
The thought of the state of my liver is scary.
The real problem is the insomnia/fibromyalgia visious cycle.
If you get time I’d be interested in any comment you have or protocols you suggest.
Hello, I would love your advise if possible.
6 months ago, from high stress, I started to have insomnia, which eventually became chronic. Through the months, I started researching and began taking vitamins and minerals. There were times I felt better then I ever knew possible, but then the insomnia would come back and all went to hell. A couple of months ago, it went chronic to the point that I developed chronic anxiety and major depression. I had to goto a crisis center which I was then given paxil in micro doses since im very sesitive to medications. Im asian with the missing enzyme that also prvents me from being able to drink alcohol. Almost a month on paxil I feel a little better, but far from normal. I think the month+ of very little sleep, constant stress etc really depleted my body and my adrenals. Now, I still have a some trouble sleeping, but am able to usually get 6 hours with some assistance of melatonin. I feel very tired mostly in the morning and low energy during the day/evening. I did the test of going into a dark room and shining a light on my eye to see if the eye contraction stays, and it does weaken and open/close. I also feel dizzy when I get up. I am not overweight. 5′8 130 lbs. Im trying to eat a more alkaline diet, but this is a slow change. At night, my mind is active, and in the morning, I wake at 6 am and am unable to go back to sleep. Is this because of high cortisol?
With this information can you give an educated guess on what stage my adrenal fatigue may be and what treatment you recommend? I currently am taking B50 complex, vit c 2000+mg, b6, pantethnoic acid (experimenting with dosage for too much seems to keep me awake), fish oil, mag, calc, small amount of potassium, and some homeopathic remedies to support thyroid, adrenals and pineal gland.
Do you have any suggestions?
Thanks!
Rachel,
Fibromyalgia is often caused by estrogens not breaking down completely in liver detoxification as discussed in this article: http://selfadjustingtechnique.com/conditions/how-glutathione-cures-fibromyalgia-and-how-to-supplement-for-it/
When there are more hormones, in this case stress hormones, to be broken down by the liver, then the estrogens build up even more.
Lack of sleep is a stressor and so, stress hormones are released. Coffee and alcohol are others stressors that do the same thing.
Without seeing you or getting more information it is hard to say exactly what to do, but here are a couple of possibilities. Instead of B6, take P5P, the enzyme activated form of B6. Add selenium, no more than 400 mcg a day to avoid a toxic overdose, and a gram or so of cysteine, TAS alpha is the best source I’ve found.
Daniel,
Lack of sleep is usually from low blood sugar. The adrenals are supposed to kick out a little cortisol to bring the blood sugar up. But, your issues may be due to brain chemistry. Selenium — about 400 mcg a day, P5P — enzyme activated B6 and tryptophan may help. But, tryptophan is contraindicated when taking anti-depressants. If you do take tryptophan, a dosage of three to five grams is recommended, and take most if not all of that right before going to bed. Serotonin breaks down into melatonin, so the serotonin also helps sleep.
Pantothenic acid, niacin amide, P5P and vitamin C aid the adrenals, so that may be why it affects your sleep. Take the first two in the morning, 200 mg is the recommended dose though 500 should be ok, in the morning so it doesn’t cause lack of sleep.
Also, magnesium at bed time may help you sleep, two to four grams — too much causes diarrhea.