Our bodies are naturally equipped to deal with everyday stress, responding with hormones that fuel the “fight or flight” response.
Periods of rest allow the body to recover from these stressors.
However, modern life often involves constant stress, which results in a constant release of these hormones.
This constant activity can disrupt hormonal balance, which can lead to adrenal fatigue.
Symptoms of adrenal fatigue in Females can manifest in a number of ways, including mood swings, fatigue, sleep problems, low blood pressure, and irregular menstrual cycles, among other symptoms we’ll explore in more detail.
What is adrenal fatigue and how does it affect women?
Adrenal fatigue, a term used to describe the effects of prolonged stress on the adrenal glands, disrupts the body’s production of the hormone cortisol.
Typically, cortisol levels peak in the morning for energy and drop at night for sleep.
With adrenal fatigue, these levels become unbalanced, leading to a variety of symptoms.
Symptoms of adrenal fatigue in females may include mood swings, difficulty sleeping, low blood pressure, cravings for sweet and salty foods, frequent infections, decreased libido, persistent fatigue, and difficulty waking up in particular.
Menstrual irregularities, premenstrual symptoms, and even menopausal-like symptoms such as hot flashes may also occur.
However, it is important to keep in mind that there is no scientific evidence to support adrenal fatigue as a real medical condition and that it is important if you are experiencing these symptoms to investigate possible causes. (Endocrine.org, n.d.)
Common Signs and Symptoms of Adrenal Fatigue in Females
Symptoms of adrenal fatigue are common symptoms that can be caused by a number of other health problems.
Therefore, possible tests should be performed to determine the cause of these symptoms and treat them properly.
Symptoms of Adrenal Fatigue in Females include:
- Chronic fatigue is the most common symptom.
- Difficulty falling asleep and staying asleep.
- Crawling for sweet and salty foods.
- Skin changes such as hyperpigmentation, acne, stretch marks or easy bruising.
- Mood swings such as irritability, depression and anxiety.
- Weight loss or gain, especially in the face and abdomen.
- Menstrual irregularities or absence.
Other symptoms may include:
- Body aches.
- Nausea and vomiting.
- Diarrhea.
- Low blood pressure.
- Joint pain.
- Loss of appetite. (National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, n.d.)
Tips for recovery from adrenal fatigue
If you’re experiencing Symptoms of Adrenal Fatigue in Females, here are some tips to help you manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life:
- Prioritize whole foods rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, including fruits, vegetables, lean protein, healthy fats and complex carbohydrates.
- Avoid processed foods, sugary drinks and refined carbohydrates, which can spike your blood sugar and put a strain on your adrenal glands.
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
- Eat moderate amounts of salt and avoid foods high in sodium.
- Sleep 7-9 hours each night and maintain a consistent bedtime routine.
- Keep your bedroom dark, quiet, and cool.
- Practicing meditation, deep breathing exercises, and yoga can help you manage your stress levels.
- Identify and reduce sources of chronic stress in your life.
- Do moderate to light exercise, such as walking, swimming, or gentle yoga. If you feel tired, reduce the intensity of your exercise or take rest days.
- Avoid strenuous activities that can drain your adrenal glands.
- Limit caffeine and avoid excessive alcohol.
- Talk to your doctor before taking any supplements, as some, such as vitamin C, B vitamins, magnesium, and adaptogenic herbs, may be beneficial for adrenal health.
- Work with your health care provider, especially a functional medicine practitioner, to develop a personalized recovery plan.
References
- Endocrine.org. (n.d.). Retrieved from Adrenal Fatigue
- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases . (n.d.). Retrieved from Symptoms & Causes of Adrenal Insufficiency & Addison’s Disease
