Adrenal Glands & Symptoms

The adrenal glands are involved in several important body functions, including blood sugar regulation, cardiovascular and gastrointestinal functions, anti-inflammatory response and the production of energy.

Adrenal Hormones

• The outer section, or adrenal cortex, is responsible for the production of the hormones cortisol, cortisone, aldosterone, androstenedione and dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA). The central section, or adrenal medulla, secretes adrenaline (or epinephrine) and norepinephrine.

Symptoms

• Reduced adrenal function may cause weakness, lethargy, allergies, food cravings and problems with blood sugar or memory.

Addison's Disease

• Addison's disease is a rare condition in which the adrenal glands are severely underactive. Symptoms include fatigue, inability to deal with stress, loss of appetite, fatigue, low blood pressure, skin discoloration, nausea, diarrhea, depression, craving for salty foods and moodiness.

Cushing's Syndrome

• Cushing's syndrome, caused by excessive production of cortisol, is associated with the following physical characteristics: heavy abdomen and buttocks, very thin limbs, rounded face, muscular weakness and muscle wasting.

Causes of Adrenal Problems

• Adrenal function is commonly impaired by the long-term use of cortisone drugs for asthma or arthritis. Other factors that can impair adrenal function include tuberculosis, pituitary disease, poor nutrition, smoking and alcohol or drug abuse.

Nutritional Support

• Proper adrenal function depends on several nutrients, including B-complex vitamins (especially vitamin B5, or pantothenic acid), vitamin C, calcium, magnesium, potassium and zinc.