Article Summary:

Article Content:
The adrenals are a part of the body’s very complex Endocrine System. They are a matching pair of glands, each about the size of a walnut, that are located above both kidneys. They may be small, but the adrenals play a crucial role in our overall wellness. Their main function is to produce and regulate several key hormones. These include adrenaline, noradrenaline, cortisol, DHEA, estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone.

When the adrenal glands are working properly, they help the body to healthily respond to stressful situations by temporarily releasing more hormones. The results may include an increase in heart rate and blood pressure, a surge of energy, and heightened senses. This collective response is commonly called “fight or flight,” and is designed to help us manage short-term stress.



The adrenals also play an important role in the immune system, and are responsible for the balance of hormones throughout the body. Strong, efficient adrenal glands are vital to both genders and during all cycles of life: for young people, through the child-bearing years, into menopause, and beyond.

One of the common problems many people must face in the hectic, fast-paced world of today is that stress is an ongoing part of their lives. Whether it’s financial, occupational, or related to a poor diet and lack of sleep, chronic stress is a “normal” part of life for far too many of us. Unfortunately, when this happens, the adrenals often get overworked, and are not able to do their job effectively.

Healthy adrenals can help to keep the body well and strong, but when they are not performing up to par, they have been linked to chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, thyroid dysfunction, arthritis, and other debilitating conditions.

What Happens When the Adrenals Malfunction?
When stress levels remain chronically high, the adrenals continue to manufacture and release increased amounts of hormones, and the body never returns to a normal, restful state. Initially, this results in a condition known as hyperadrenia, which means that there is too much of certain hormones, especially cortisol, present in the body. However, eventually the adrenals will begin to deteriorate, as they cannot keep up this overproduction indefinitely. At this point, they are not able to deliver normal amounts of hormones that the body needs, and this is referred to as hypoadrenia.
 

Symptoms of Adrenal Malfunction
When hormone levels are too high or too low, a person may experience the following; however the three most common are fatigue, weight gain and depression.

In short, taking care of the adrenal glands is one of the most comprehensive steps one can take to prevent disease and maintain wellness. Making a few lifestyle changes can dramatically affect your adrenals and the health of your entire mind and body.

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