If you’ve done any research into healthy living, diet, or thyroid, you’ve probably run across the term adrenal fatigue. But what is it and how does it effect you and your hormones?

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The main job of your adrenal glands is to produce and regulate the stress hormone Cortisol. They also produce estrogen, progesterone, and neurotransmitters. These hormones and transmitters help regulate your metabolism and communicate with other organs. Chronic stress can suppress your adrenals so they don’t release enough of these necessary hormones. Therefore, the adrenal glands work harder and harder and eventually become fatigued.

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When it comes to anything adrenal/thyroid related, I tend to turn to Amy Meyers MD as my first stop online to gather information. She explains that the flooding and eventual plummeting of stress hormones can negatively impact your thyroid, your immune system, your sleep patterns, your brain, and many other things! So how do you get your adrenal glands under control?

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Stress is almost always the root cause of adrenal fatigue, so think about your personal stressors. Meyers suggests establishing a routine as one of the best ways to combat stress.

• Keep the same sleep schedule, and try to sleep for 8 hours every night.
• When you’ve reached your limit or become overwhelmed in day to day life, recognize that and say NO!
• Do something relaxing EVERY DAY.
• Work out, but don’t over do it.  Over doing it causes inflammation.
• Stay away from packaged foods, sugar, and dairy that can lead to inflammation.
• Consider good quality supplements: B vitamins, omega 3 fatty acids, C, and magnesium.

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Getting your life in balance is key to optimal health. De-stressing and getting your adrenals in good shape will help balance your hormones, up your metabolism, and help balance your thyroid levels so you feel less tired and more energetic.