Experts estimate that approximately 80% of the population suffers from some of adrenal dysfunction. There are many causes of adrenal dysfunction including stress, lack of quality sleep, environmental toxins, and commonly, certain nutrient deficiencies.
About the Adrenal Glands
The adrenals are an important part of the endocrine system as they are two little glands that sit on the top of the kidneys that both produce and regulate the stress hormone cortisol. The adrenal glands also produce sex hormones, estrogen and progesterone, neurotransmitters, adrenaline (epinephrine), norepinephrine, and dopamine. These hormones and neurotransmitters regulate the metabolism and communicate with other organs such as the brain, kidneys, and reproductive system.
Thus, when the body is lacking the nutrients required for proper adrenal function, your health can quickly become compromised.
Learn about the symptoms of adrenal dysfunction here
Vitamin D
Research suggests that approximately 42% of the US population is deficient in vitamin D and it is even more common among those with autoimmune conditions. For instance, more than 50% of lupus patients have nutrient deficienies in vitamin D and severe deficiency (vitamin D levels less than 10ng/ml) is not uncommon.
Vitamin D is critical for bone health, immune health, heart health, and even hormone production. Some lab studies suggest that love levels of vitamin D may negatively impact the adrenal medulla’s ability to produce epinephrine (adrenaline) and norepinephrine (noradrenaline), which are involved in sending nerve signals.
Studies also show that there is a link between low levels of vitamin D and overproduction of cortisol, the stress hormone, which can lead to adrenal burnout. In fact, according to a study published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism, vitamin D deficiency can worsen the effect of adrenal insufficiency, particularly among children dealing with an illness.
Consider supplementing with HoltraCeuticals high-quality, doctor-formulated vitamin D supplement
Vitamin C
Because vitamin C is involved in the body’s stress response, it is critical for adrenal health. More specifically, vitamin C is needed for the production of cortisol in the adrenal glands. Consequently, when vitamin C levels are low, the body cannot produce the necessary amount of cortisol when combatting stress. This results in adrenal fatigue.
Vitamin E
There is evidence that suggests that vitamin E helps the adrenal glands communicate with the hypothalamus and pituitary gland, which helps maintain the functioning of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. A 2009 study from the Journal of Clinical Biochemistry and Nutrition considered rats that were vitamin E deficient. The study concluded that the deficient rats’ adrenal glands could not decrease the cortisol levels when needed, which is a well-known sign of adrenal fatigue.
Therefore, vitamin E may improve the communication between the organs of the HPA axis and improve overall adrenal health. Moreover, the Journal of Clinical Biochemistry and Nutrition found that vitamin E supplementation prevented increases in lipid peroxidation (lipid degradation) in each of the organs in the HPA axis even when subjected to oxidative stress.
B Vitamins
B vitamins such as B12, B6, B2, B3, and B9 are necessary for a variety of bodily functions including preventing free radical damage, supporting the health of red blood cells, and promoting good cholesterol. Additionally, B vitamins are associated with reducing stress levels as they can significantly improve mood and cognitive performance. Improved mood and stability allow the body and mind to better deal with stressors. Avoiding elevated stress will improve adrenal health and prevent adrenal fatigue.
Learn more about the importance of B vitamins here
Magnesium
Magnesium is involved in over 300 biochemical reactions in the body. This nutrient is required for the adrenal’s creation of neurotransmitters as well as the proper functioning of the HPA axis.
Magnesium acts on both the pituitary and the adrenals. In the pituitary gland, it modulates a hormone that travels to the adrenal glands and stimulates the release of cortisol. In the adrenals, it helps keep cortisol levels within a normal range.
Nearly half of all Americans do not get enough Magnesium daily. Consider supplementing with HoltraCeuticals’ magnesium supplements: Magnesium Citrate and Magnesium Glycinate.
Combatting Nutrient Deficiencies
If you are looking to support the health of your adrenals through supplementation, consider Holtraceuticals pharmaceutical-grade Adrenal Repair, formulated with a special blend of vitamins, minerals, and adaptogens to strengthen the health of your adrenals.
*Always consult your doctor before beginning supplementation
