Over the last 10 years, adrenal fatigue and hormone imbalance have become more prevalent than ever before. Most people are either misdiagnosed or undiagnosed, and the problem continues for years. Some of the most common symptoms people experience are being overwhelmed, exhausted even after a full night sleep, and feeling mentally and physically run down.
At MediThrive Personalized Wellness, we not only explore your cortisol output and hormone levels, but we also provide in-depth analysis of what may be driving the dysfunction. Let’s explore how our team at MediThrive Personalized Wellness can unravel the mystery of cortisol and hormone dysfunction and offer personalized solutions for your health.
Adrenal Fatigue
Adrenal fatigue is a term used to describe a condition where the adrenal glands, which produce hormones like cortisol, are said to be underactive or exhausted due to chronic stress. Most people understand the fight or flight stress response and how cortisol is a necessary hormone to help with survival. However, prolonged cortisol output eventually leads to adrenal fatigue since the adrenal glands can no longer keep up with the constant need for cortisol support throughout the day. This leads to people feeling exhausted from the moment they wake up, unable to think clearly, feeling worn down, and disengaged from friends and loved ones. There are 4 key principles that lead to adrenal fatigue:
- Mental & Emotional Stress: Real and perceived stress leads to the constant fight or flight cortisol output. When stress is prevalent at work, at home, and in your relationships, your body is continuing to overproduce cortisol.
- Blood Sugar Imbalance: Improper blood sugar regulation can affect the adrenal glands and cause fatigue. When blood sugar levels are low, the adrenal glands produce cortisol to raise blood sugar levels.
- Inflammation: Sustained inflammation causes the adrenal glands to produce more cortisol. This inflammation can be from gut dysfunction, poor diet or injuries.
- Sleep: Adrenal fatigue can cause sleep problems, including difficulty falling asleep, waking up, and unrefreshing sleep. This is because adrenal dysfunction can disrupt blood sugar metabolism and interfere with normal sleep rhythms.
Hormone Imbalance
Hormone imbalance: Hormone imbalance occurs when there is an abnormality in the levels of hormones in your body. Hormones are chemical messengers that regulate many aspects of your health, including metabolism, mood, growth, and reproductive processes. When hormones are out of balance, it can lead to a variety of symptoms and health issues. The most common symptoms people report are hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, irregular or missed periods, reduced libido, fatigue, and mood changes. Hormone imbalances can be caused by:
- Thyroid Disorders: Thyroid disorders, such as hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism affect metabolism and energy levels. Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) leads to symptoms like fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance, and dry skin. Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) causes symptoms such as weight loss, rapid heartbeat, anxiety, and heat intolerance.
- Reproductive Hormones: Issues with estrogen, progesterone, or testosterone can affect menstrual cycles, libido, mood, hot flashes and other functions.
- Insulin Resistance or Diabetes: Imbalances in insulin can affect blood sugar levels and energy. Insulin Resistance occurs when the body’s cells do not respond effectively to insulin, leading to high blood sugar levels, weight gain, and fatigue. Type 2 Diabetes is considered as high blood sugar levels resulting from insulin resistance.
Addressing These Issues
If you suspect you have symptoms related to adrenal fatigue or hormone imbalance, MediThrive Personalized Wellness has testing solutions for you.
- Blood tests to measure hormone levels.
- Saliva tests for cortisol levels throughout the day.
- Thyroid function tests for thyroid hormone levels.
- Other diagnostic tests as needed based on your symptoms.
Since we believe in a complete, holistic approach, treatment may involve lifestyle and dietary changes, hormone replacement therapy, stress management techniques, nutritional supplements, or medications, depending on the specific diagnosis.
Lifestyle Tips and Solutions
- Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): Hormone replacement therapy is a treatment that replaces hormones that the body stops producing during certain transitions or when it doesn’t produce enough of those hormones.
- Adrenal Support Supplements: Often used to help with symptoms related to adrenal fatigue or stress, these supplements usually include a blend of vitamins, minerals, herbs, and adaptogens that are thought to support adrenal function and overall stress resilience.
- Healthy Diet: Eating a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can support overall health.
- Regular Exercise: Physical activity can improve mood and energy levels.
- Stress Management: Techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, and regular physical activity can help manage stress.
- Avoid Endocrine Disruptors: Reduce exposure to chemicals found in plastics, pesticides, and personal care products.
- Healthy Weight Management: Maintaining a healthy weight can help balance hormones, especially insulin and reproductive hormones.
- Adequate Sleep: Ensure you get enough quality sleep to support overall health and hormonal balance.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to support overall bodily functions.
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Omega-3 Fatty Acids can help balance inflammation and support overall hormone health.
- Magnesium and Zinc: These minerals are important for hormone production and balance.
- Probiotics: Healthy gut bacteria can influence hormone levels and overall health.
Let’s Start Your Journey to Better Health
If you’re experiencing symptoms like fatigue, weight gain, or mood changes, it’s time to take control of your health. Our team at MediThrive Personalized Wellness offers personalized solutions tailored to your unique needs, helping you uncover the root causes of your symptoms and achieve optimal wellness.
Join us at MediThrive Personalized Wellness to embark on a journey to vibrant health. Together, let’s unlock the secrets to your thyroid health and reclaim your vitality. Call (980) 580-6070 to learn more about our personalized approach and tailored wellness solutions or request a consultation today. It’s your time to thrive!
