By Patrick Kelly, PharmD Candidate
Adrenal fatigue is a non-specific collection of symptoms – with the manifestation appearing differently in each person. Some of the common symptoms include body aches, generalized fatigue, trouble sleeping, digestive issues, and nervousness. This wide array of symptoms is caused by the fact that adrenal glands throughout the body produce a wide range of hormones including aldosterone, cortisol, as well as androgens and estrogen. These hormones play a role in facilitating many biochemical processes throughout the body that are required for life – so when the adrenal glands aren’t producing enough hormones, the effects can be wide-ranging.
The exact cause(s) of adrenal fatigue are not fully understood, though the most accepted cause is the overworking of the adrenal glands due to excessive exposure to stressful events. This leads to a “draining” of the adrenal glands where they no longer produce therapeutic levels of hormones.
Adrenal fatigue is often something that can be treated with a wide variety of over-the-counter products. Before starting treatment though, you should discuss your symptoms with your provider as the symptoms of adrenal fatigue are similar (though less severe) to the clinical presentation of Addison’s disease.
One supplement option is Adrenal Aid, which helps support the adrenal gland’s ability to respond to stressful situations, thereby preventing the draining of the glands. It contains a variety of natural plant products: Ashwagandha root, Astragalus root, Codonopsis root, Devil's Club root bark, Eleuthero root, Fo-ti root, and Wild Yam root.
Another supplement option is Ashwagandha + (one of the ingredients in Adrenal Aid). This product works by lowering the levels of stress hormones circulating in the body. This helps to prevent the draining of the adrenal gland.
Cortisol Calm helps the adrenal glands produce appropriate levels of cortisol even during and following stressful situations. This helps reduce or eliminate the symptoms of adrenal fatigue.
If you have any questions, or need help picking an optimum regimen for you, contact our pharmacists and we will be happy to assist you!