When you’re under stress, whether emotional, physical or from poor nutrition, your adrenal, or stress glands, work hard and levels of cortisol, a stress hormone, are increased to help boost your energy and keep your body in a state of balance. When pushed too hard, the adrenals produce too much cortisol, which leads to fatigue, making you feel exhausted, run down, and emotionally drained. Resist reaching for caffeine or carbohydrate-laden snacks, things your body craves when the adrenals are stressed. Relieving stress can seem impossible. But it’s how you handle the stress that will allow you to feel better, and decrease cortisol levels.
Sleep – The best way to relieve stress is to ensure you get 8 hours of sleep per day. This allows time for cortisol levels to drop and give you deep, restful sleep.
Exercise – Participate in regular “moderate” exercise. An intense workout may only complicate your adrenal issues.
Nutrition – Whole foods are important because they provide a wide variety of nutrients that are crucial during times of increased stress and adrenal fatigue. When the body is under stress, your metabolism increases, creating a greater need for nutrients. Avoid sugar, high fructose corn syrup, and refined flour. Stick to high fiber foods (whole grains, fruits, and vegetables) and lean protein.
Supplements – Whole food supplements can provide additional support to help your adrenal glands stay healthy. Only whole food supplements with the maximum amount of focused nutrition , like Standard Process adrenal products, can provide what the adrenals need to return to optimal function.
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