Much like popular wisdom says, you really are what you eat—and drink. Poor food choices can lead to all sorts of health issues, and adrenal fatigue is no exception. Dietary changes play a crucial role in combatting adrenal fatigue, whether those changes involve cutting out detrimental foods or adding healthy ones. A doctor in Connecticut could design a diet and exercise plan to help you treat adrenal fatigue, along with a custom-tailored bioidentical hormone therapy for the disorder.
Adrenal fatigue is a condition that occurs when the adrenal glands, responsible for regulating metabolism and producing hormones vital to life, become overtaxed. Besides overall fatigue, symptoms of adrenal fatigue include:
If someone is suffering from adrenal fatigue, a doctor may suggest they avoid caffeine, sugar, and processed foods. Processed foods are another adrenal fatigue no-no. Whether it is a greasy burger and fries from a fast-food restaurant or a highly processed meal purchased in a supermarket, these rank among the worst foods for people suffering from adrenal fatigue.
While caffeine and sugar are the worst offenders for those battling adrenal fatigue, there are other foods and substances to avoid as well, some of which may be surprising. It should not come as a shock that those with adrenal fatigue should keep alcohol consumption to a minimum, but they should also stay away from soy products. Processed dairy products should also be avoided, as should anything containing gluten.
Drinking lots of coffee or other caffeinated beverages can harm your adrenal glands. Caffeine increases the adrenal response to the normal stresses of daily life. Sugar is another culprit that can overwhelm the adrenal glands. Avoiding sugar helps combat adrenal fatigue, but it is essential that patients also stay away from foods affecting blood sugar levels. Read labels and keep away from hydrogenated oils, which negatively affect the adrenal glands. With adrenal fatigue, there are really no “good” sugars, so keep natural sugar consumption low.
While it is important to avoid some foods, it is equally important to add others to the diet. Foods that aid the adrenal glands include:
Certain fresh fruits are good for those with adrenal fatigue, but that does not include dried fruits or very sugary ones.
Adrenal fatigue sufferers should stay hydrated, so drinking plenty of water daily is key. Because those dealing with adrenal fatigue may experience mineral deficiencies, it helps to add a slice of lemon or touch of sea salt to plain water. Other drinks beneficial for adrenal fatigue include fermented beverages such as kombucha, as they provide plenty of good bacteria to improve gut health.
When it comes to treating adrenal fatigue in Connecticut through diet, it is more than a matter of what a person eats — when a person eats can also be a critical factor. Patients with adrenal fatigue should never skip breakfast. Because maintaining safe blood sugar levels is paramount, patients should eat small meals throughout the day, rather than gorge on large lunches or dinners. Never going really hungry reduces the potential for blood sugar drops and cravings that may cause patients to make unwise food choices.
If you are curious about the benefits of Connecticut adrenal fatigue treatment coupled with a customized diet plan, call a qualified physician at our clinic. If you are suffering from symptoms of adrenal fatigue, call the offices of Dr. Edward Jacobson and make an appointment for an examination.