Adrenal fatigue is a term used to describe a collection of nonspecific symptoms such as body aches, fatigue, nervousness, sleep disturbances, and digestive issues. It is thought to occur when the adrenal glands become overtaxed and unable to produce adequate levels of hormones like cortisol to meet the body's needs.
While not an officially recognized medical diagnosis, some health practitioners believe it stems from chronic stress depleting adrenal function over time. Common causes may include:
- Prolonged or intense emotional, physical, or mental stress
- Sleep deprivation
- Poor diet
- Blood sugar imbalances
- Chronic infections
Symptoms vary but may include:
- Fatigue, especially in the morning and afternoon
- Cravings for salty, sweet or fatty foods
- Difficulty bouncing back from stress
- Irritability, anxiety or nervousness
- Poor concentration and memory
- Digestive issues
- Low stamina
If experiencing ongoing fatigue or burnout, there are lifestyle measures one can take to nourish the adrenals:
- Get adequate sleep
- Eat a nutrient-dense diet
- Manage stress levels with relaxation practices
- Moderate exercise
- Take adaptogenic herbs like ashwagandha, rhodiola, or ginseng
Consider getting adrenal function tested by Rejuvenate Hormone Clinic. We offer saliva testing to check key adrenal hormones like cortisol and DHEA. This can identify abnormal rhythms over a 24-hour cycle indicating suboptimal function. We also provide customized treatment plans involving diet, lifestyle, nutraceuticals and bioidentical hormone therapy when appropriate to restore adrenal health.
With proper rest, nutrition and stress relief, mild adrenal dysfunction often improves on its own. More stubborn cases may require professional support to identify and address the root causes of imbalance. If experiencing ongoing fatigue or stress-related problems, visit to learn more or book a consultation. Our functional medicine doctors can help you reclaim your energy, resilience and zest for life!