Adrenal Fatigue: A PRESCRIPTION
by Sangeeta Pati, MD, FACOG
What is Adrenal Fatigue? Is it normal to get tired as we grow older?
As we age, hormone production and nutrient status decline. Hormone function is at about 50% by the age of 50. Absorption of B-12 declines naturally with age. Although this is still considered “normal,” it is not “optimal.” The decline of hormones and nutrients results in a host of symptoms (including fatigue) and ultimately leads to degenerative diseases such as arthritis, heart attacks, high blood pressure, diabetes, osteoporosis and cancer. Correction of hormones and nutrients to “optimal” levels and mind-body interventions generally correct energy levels back to what was normal. With the current levels of stress in daily life we are seeing more and more dysfunction of the adrenal gland. When people are exposed to long periods of emotional or physical stress, the adrenal gland does not have the nutrients to produce a normal cortisol response. The adrenal gland then enters an insuffi ciency status (some call adrenal burnout), characterized initially by
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severe fatigue. As it progresses and cortisol levels decline, symptoms may include body pain, multiple sensitivities, allergies, diffi culty dealing with normal life stressors, panic attacks, salt cravings, wakefulness in the middle of the night, increased infl ammation and a myriad of other symptoms treatable by high dose nutrition, hormone replacement and mind-body interventions.
What are causes of fatigue? Fatigue is caused by imbalances in each of the 5 areas of the 5-point model: Hormones: Low levels of thyroid, progesterone, testosterone, DHEA and cortisol can be major factors in causing fatigue. Often these hormone levels may be in the “normal” range but not the “optimal” range. It is not necessary to take each of these hormones, since several of them can convert to the others. For example, progesterone can convert to DHEA and cortisol. Nutrients: Although all vitamins and minerals are required for optimal energy, there are a few that are known to be vital to our energy production pathways. Those include B-12, B-6, magnesium and vitamin C, needed for the adrenal glands which produce
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cortisol. Iodine, zinc and selenium are required for thyroid activation. Toxins: The function of our bowels affects the absorption of nutrients that are vital for energy. Most B-vitamins are made by the good bacteria in the intestines. Thus, indigestion, bloating and sluggish bowels are indications that nutrient absorption and production are low. Any antibiotic will destroy the normal bacteria in the intestines. Constipation (moving bowels less than 2 times a day) is well known to be associated with low energy and productivity. Heartburn and heartburn medications (such as Pepcid, Prilosec, etc) decrease absorption of B-12. Mind balance: Stress is a major con- tributor to fatigue. When you are under physical or emotional stress, the use of the nutrients and hormones goes up and starts to deplete the reserve of nutrients and hormones. When the reserve is depleted we are in a state of “adrenal insuffi ciency” or “adrenal burnout.” This means the adrenal gland is unable to produce adequate cortisol to support the daily activities and responses. Body Balance: Pain is a major contributor to fatigue. When you are in pain, your body is using up cortisol and nutrients more rapidly in order to detect pain and respond.
What are cures for fatigue? Fatigue can be resolved in over 85% of cases. Resolution time can vary from 12 weeks to over 6 months depending on how severe the fatigue and how aggressively it is treated. The more severe the fatigue, the more interventions needed. To address fatigue, you must address imbalances in each of the 5 areas of the 5-point model: Hormones: Measure your hormones in blood, saliva or urine and optimize levels with bio-identical hormones. Some hormones such as progesterone and DHEA may be started before levels come back. Nutrients: Measure your nutrition status with Spectracell™ blood analysis and optimize levels to the 75% percentile and above. Results take 4 weeks. Interventions which may be used by your healthcare provider include: IM injections of methyl form of B-12 and folate weekly • High dose “stress B’s” magnesium, vitamin C
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