If you are suffering from Adrenal Fatigue, it can be hard to determine which Adrenal Fatigue supplement would be best for your situation. While talking to your healthcare provider is usually the best option, below we’ll discuss the uses, benefits, considerations, and possible sources of several of the best Adrenal Fatigue Supplements.
Important Considerations for Adrenal Fatigue Supplements
In general, the best way to address Adrenal Fatigue is to take a whole-body approach, following a healthy diet, getting sufficient sleep, engaging in gentle exercise, and managing stress levels. This forms the core of an Adrenal Fatigue recovery plan, and supplements are best used only to patch gaps in your diet or for a short time.
In addition, when choosing supplements, it is important to consider which stage of the condition you are in. Furthermore, certain supplements may interact with drugs you currently take, if any. They may also interact with each other.
Because of this, taking Adrenal Fatigue supplements could cause paradoxical reactions and could do more harm than good. The wrong supplements could put increased pressure on a body already struggling, increase your body’s toxic load, and cause sensitivities or crashes.
While some supplements may feel better for a short period, the benefits may not endure. This is why it’s critical to address the root cause of your issues as well.
This is why we strongly advise you to talk to your healthcare provider before starting any adrenal supplement regimen. They are best able to advise you on suitability for your unique situation and dosage.
Root Cause of Adrenal Fatigue
Stress is the root cause of Adrenal Fatigue. Chronic stress affects all organs and body systems.
Stress is first perceived in the brain. Once your brain experiences stress, it causes a hormonal cascade starting in the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal (HPA) axis. Actions in the HPA axis kick-start the body’s natural stress reaction system, commonly referred to as the NeuroEndoMetabolic (NEM) stress response. One of the key players in the NEM stress response is the release of stress hormones like cortisol via the adrenal glands.
Prolonged stress means constantly elevated cortisol production.
Higher cortisol production during stressful periods is a good thing. It plays a significant role in your body’s fight or flight response. It increases blood sugar levels to fuel the brain and muscles. This increases your concentration and ability to pay attention to detail. It also readies your body for any physical activity.
Besides this, cortisol also suppresses bodily functions not essential to immediate survival. These include digestion and reproduction.
Chronic stress, however, means a constant demand for more cortisol. This could not only harm your adrenal health and contribute to Adrenal Fatigue but also cause a variety of health issues to manifest.
How Adrenal Fatigue Affects the Body
The severity of your symptoms depends on which of the four stages of Adrenal Fatigue you are in. The stage of the condition may also determine the most suitable Adrenal Fatigue supplements to use.
Early on, symptoms may be mild, but if the condition worsens, not only can the same symptoms become more severe, but you can also develop different ones. This happens in part because, while cortisol is too high early in Adrenal Fatigue, it becomes too low in the later stages. This means that Adrenal Fatigue supplements need to be tailored to what your body needs and can manage at a particular time.
As Adrenal Fatigue advances, it may affect other organs and body systems, not just the adrenals. This may affect any of the six circuits of the NEM system.
For example, the thyroid is connected to both the Hormonal and Bioenergetics circuit.
Thyroid function is linked to adrenal health (and the reproductive organs) via the Hormonal circuit. All these organs produce hormones that interact with each other.
While certain supplements may help improve thyroid function initially, they do not address the root cause – adrenal issues that result from stress.
The thyroid, together with the pancreas and liver, also forms part of the Bioenergetics Circuit. This circuit plays a significant role in various metabolic functions. The thyroid regulates your basal metabolic rate, the pancreas regulates glucose metabolism, and the liver eliminates metabolic byproducts.
Dysregulation in these organs may see an increase in toxic buildup, elevated blood sugar levels, and inflammation of the gut and other body systems.
Many other organs and systems may also be affected, leading to a variety of symptoms that seem unrelated.
It’s not uncommon to end up taking supplements to improve thyroid health, liver health, gut health, blood sugar issues, and more. Yet it is important to remain aware that the root issue is stress.
Common Symptoms of Adrenal Fatigue
These are some of the symptoms associated with Adrenal Fatigue:
- Fatigue
- Anxiety, depression, mood swings, and brain fog
- Gut health issues that include irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), diarrhea, and constipation
- Hormone issues that include a lower libido, increased symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS), weight gain, and fertility issues
- Issues that may affect heart health, like hypertension, high cholesterol levels, and arrhythmia
- Weight gain
- Blood glucose issues that could result in diabetes
Types of Adrenal Fatigue Supplements
There are four main types of Adrenal Fatigue supplements:
- Vitamins and minerals
- Herbs
- Hormones
- Glandulars
Choosing the Right Adrenal Fatigue Supplements
To determine the best Adrenal Fatigue supplements that will work for you, as well as the dosage and other considerations, it’s important to see your healthcare provider.
Generally, they will look at the stage of your condition, medications you currently use, and take your health history into account.
Also, keep in mind that dosage, frequency, and the delivery system of a supplement also play a significant role in its suitability.
You may need different Adrenal Fatigue supplements at different times during your recovery process.
Furthermore, nobody is the same. So, what might work for one person may not work for you.
Adrenal Fatigue Supplements to Consider
Various supplements may help in addressing Adrenal Fatigue. Taking the correct supplement at the correct time is crucial.
Vitamin C
The adrenals have extremely high concentrations of vitamin C. The vitamin has strong antioxidant properties that protect the adrenals from damage due to stress. It also plays a role in stress hormone production.
People suffering from Adrenal Fatigue and its many symptoms tend to have a vitamin C deficiency.
Vitamin C, besides its antioxidant properties, helps with collagen formation. This is essential in promoting vascular health and preventing heart disease.
Although vitamin C is generally recommended as an Adrenal Fatigue supplement, people with the following disorders should use caution:
- Kidney issues – increases the risk of kidney stones developing.
- Iron overload disorders – may cause hemochromatosis because it enhances iron absorption.
- Diabetes – may affect blood sugar levels.
- Blood disorders – can influence the blood’s clotting ability.
- Certain medications – the vitamin may interfere with the efficacy of certain medications.
In choosing a supplement, LipoNano C may help. The vitamin C supplement is fat-soluble. This means a higher absorption rate in the intestines, thereby maximizing the supplement’s absorption and effectiveness.
Pantothenic Acid and Pantethine
Pantothenic acid is vitamin B5. Pantethine is a stable form of pantetheine. Both play a role in the synthesis of coenzyme A (CoA).
CoA engages in numerous metabolic processes in the body. These include energy production, the synthesis and breakdown of fatty acids, and creating other essential compounds.
Besides the synthesis of cholesterol, CoA is also a powerful anti-inflammatory agent. It also plays a key role in the production of sex and adrenal hormones.
Pandrenal is a natural supplement that may help with your body’s CoA production.
Vitamin B Complex
Different B vitamins tend to complement and support each other. Many people, especially when suffering from Adrenal Fatigue, have a deficiency in B vitamins.
Taking a vitamin B complex like B-Alive may provide you not only with your daily requirement of various B vitamins but also other vitamins and minerals as well.
Magnesium
Magnesium plays a significant role in many bodily functions, but it is one of the most common mineral deficiencies. A cofactor in over 300 enzymatic reactions, it works synergistically with vitamin C and pantothenic acid in steroid synthesis.
Although found in nuts, whole grains, and legumes, most people (around 75% of the North American population) do not get the recommended daily allowance. Symptoms of magnesium deficiency include
- Restlessness
- Muscle tics and spasms
- Osteoporosis
- Fatigue
- Weakness
- Vasospasms
- Cardiac arrhythmia
- PMS
- Irritability
- Depression
- Migraines
- Noise sensitivity
- Insulin resistance
- Pain sensitivity
People with Adrenal Fatigue may experience paradoxical reactions when taking a magnesium supplement, so please take care when considering it.
Mag Three is a good choice of Adrenal Fatigue supplement that provides three forms of magnesium for optimal absorption.
Phosphorylated Serine
Phosphorylated serine supports adrenal health by modulating cortisol production. This amino acid also plays a role in maintaining healthy cell membranes, supporting muscle growth, and enhancing your immune system.
Food sources containing this amino acid include organ meats, fish, and soy products. The modern American diet, however, often means we do not get enough phosphorylated serine from food.
Adrenal PS is one source of phosphorylated serine.
Ashwagandha Root and Leaf
This adaptogen, often used in Ayurvedic Medicine, promotes heart health. It also directly affects adrenal function.
It is usually safe to be used during the advanced stages of Adrenal Fatigue, although usually under the supervision of your healthcare provider.
FermPlex A contains ashwagandha, which is known for its adaptogenic qualities that enhance adrenal health. The supplement also contains panax ginseng, holy basil, and peppermint. Each of these also has beneficial properties.
Rhodiola Rosea
Rhodiola is also an adaptogen. It may help boost energy levels, support blood flow regulation, and relax muscles.
During the initial stages of Adrenal Fatigue, it may support cortisol production while slowing down its secretion. This may help reduce cortisol spikes and drops while promoting an even cortisol distribution throughout the day.
Adrenal Rescue contains Rhodiola rosea as well as Ashwagandha, ginseng, and pantothenic acid.
Licorice Root and Leaf
Licorice root has long been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine. It helps to enhance endurance and vitality. It also blocks the conversion of cortisol into cortisone.
The herb may also help with blood sugar issues and increase the production of aldosterone. Many people with Adrenal Fatigue experience low levels of this hormone.
A supplement like GI Mend may help with these issues while promoting gut health. Gut health issues are common in Adrenal Fatigue.
Ginseng Root
Ginseng helps to regulate cortisol levels. In so doing, it provides adrenal support. The root also has strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and may:
- enhance immune support
- increase energy
- promote heart health
- help with blood sugar control
- help improve brain function
Pregnenolone
Pregnenolone is a precursor hormone to, for example, DHEA, androstenedione, testosterone, and estrogen. It may help with:
- memory
- libido issues
- mental clarity
- hot flashes
- PMS symptoms
- Increased energy levels
An Adrenal Fatigue supplement like Preg-Easy contains this hormone precursor and may help address these symptoms.
DHEA
DHEA, i.e., dehydroepiandrosterone, is one of the most abundant steroids in your body. It is involved in the production of testosterone, estrogen, progesterone, and corticosteroids.
Low DHEA levels are one of the repercussions of Adrenal Fatigue.
A supplement like DH Pro helps address hormonal imbalance issues.
Adrenal Fatigue Supplements for Related Bodily Systems
These Adrenal Fatigue supplements support other body systems, which may have been affected by compromised adrenal function. Strengthening these systems can also benefit adrenal health in the long term.
Glutathione
Glutathione has strong antioxidant abilities and may help address the oxidative stress experienced when you have Adrenal Fatigue. It also has strong detoxification properties. It is known for reducing your body’s load of toxic metabolites, xenobiotics, lead, mercury, and pesticides.
While your cells naturally make glutathione, the amount produced could drop under certain conditions.
Glutathione and vitamin C work together, providing your body with stronger antioxidant protection. When glutathione levels decrease, vitamin C recycles into glutathione. When vitamin C levels decrease, glutathione recycles into vitamin C.
Furthermore, while vitamin C works on an extracellular level, glutathione works at an intracellular level.
Because the regular form of glutathione will break down in the stomach before it has a chance to enter the bloodstream, we advise taking the oral liposomal form, such as LipoNano® Glutathione. The liposomal surrounding will prevent quick breakdown.
NADH
NADH stands for nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD) + hydrogen (H). Your body naturally makes its own NADH from a form of niacin, or vitamin B3, called niacinamide. Aging and chronic disease may cause a decrease in its production.
NADH plays a key role in your body’s energy production processes. It also plays a role in the brain’s dopamine production. Dopamine is a precursor to norepinephrine and epinephrine, i.e., adrenaline.
Like cortisol, these two hormones help your body deal with stress. Long-term elevated levels may worsen Adrenal Fatigue.
Niacin Active is a supplement containing nicotinamide. It is gentle on the system and helps with metabolism, cellular energy production, and maintaining healthy cholesterol levels.
NAD+ Vitality is another supplement worth considering. It is a good source of niacin and contains a good quantity of vitamin C as well.
Vitamin E
A powerful antioxidant vitamin E supplement, like CannaPlex E, may help deal with free radicals in the adrenals. Like glutathione, it helps with vitamin C recycling.
People in the advanced stages of Adrenal Fatigue need to be cautious when using this Adrenal Fatigue supplement. This is because it is metabolized through your liver. Vitamin E also has blood-thinning properties.
Inositol
Also called vitamin B8, inositol is a form of sugar. It plays a key role in cellular growth and development. It also plays a role in insulin signaling pathways and neurotransmitter signaling.
People with Adrenal Fatigue may experience anxiety, depression, and sleep issues. Inositol is one of the Adrenal Fatigue supplements that may help address these issues because it helps to balance your serotonin and dopamine levels. These hormones play a key role in determining your mood.
While naturally occurring in red meat and whole grains, much of our inositol comes from fiber. As a result, we may often not get enough of this vitamin. This is why many of us need a supplement like InoPlex to make up for the shortfall.
People with blood sugar issues may need to proceed with caution when taking a vitamin B8 supplement because it may interfere with their blood sugar balance.
D-Ribose
D-ribose plays a role in the pentose phosphate pathway. This pathway helps with energy synthesis and genetic material production. D-ribose also plays a role in producing fatty acids and hormones and supports heart function.
This is one of the Adrenal Fatigue supplements that may help you get over an adrenal crash, as it helps to increase energy levels.
Pregnant women, nursing mothers, young children, and people with blood sugar issues should proceed with caution when considering this supplement.
Collagen
Collagen is the most prevalent protein in the body. It maintains blood vessels and connective tissues and supports the musculoskeletal system. Collagen production tends to decline as you age.
People in the advanced stages of Adrenal Fatigue may experience a loss of muscle mass. This is because the body may start to break down collagen and muscles for fuel because of lower energy levels.
Taking a supplement like Adrenal Collagen Rebuilder may help the body replenish its collagen reserves and help with recovery.
Probiotics
It is common for people with Adrenal Fatigue to experience an imbalance in their gut microbiome. This is because gut flora is sensitive to medications, stress, and diet.
An imbalanced gut microbiome leads to inflammation. Chronic inflammation, which usually originates in the gut, is one of the biggest causes of chronic health issues.
Probiotics are one of the key Adrenal Fatigue supplements, playing a pivotal role in Adrenal Fatigue management. They help replenish the beneficial bacteria in the gut and balance your gut microbiome.
The best way to balance gut bacteria is by eating a diet rich in probiotics. Foods to consider include raw yogurt, fermented vegetables, and kefir.
A good probiotic supplement like Adrebiotics may help promote gut health when your eating habits do not ensure your gut gets the support it needs.
Digestive Enzymes
Digestive enzymes are proteins that help with digestion. They break food down into smaller molecules. This helps the body absorb nutrients better.
Different enzymes break down different foods. Lipase, for example, breaks down fats while amylase breaks down carbohydrates. Your body produces its own enzymes in the stomach, pancreas, small intestine, and salivary glands.
People with Adrenal Fatigue often have difficulty assimilating nutrients in the body. Adrenal issues may also affect the body’s ability to manufacture enzymes.
When it comes to Adrenal Fatigue supplements for this issue, Adrezyme may help. The supplement contains numerous enzymes that include, among others, amylase, lipase, lactase, and protease.
Vitamin B12
Although most people eat animal products that contain vitamin B12, a deficiency in this vitamin is quite common. Low vitamin B12 levels are also common amongst vegetarians and vegans. And because people with Adrenal Fatigue may have to reduce their intake of animal proteins, they too may have a deficiency.
Vitamin B12 is essential for a healthy brain and nervous system. It also plays a role in DNA production and the production of red blood cells. Furthermore, it plays a role in energy production in the body and may promote eye health.
Liponano MTHFR is a good supplemental source of this vitamin.
Quercetin
Quercetin has strong antihistamine and anti-inflammatory properties. People suffering from Adrenal Fatigue may develop food and chemical sensitivities. The properties of quercetin may address both the sensitivity as well as the inflammatory response generated by it.
Although present in fermented tea and red wine, drinking these substances may do more harm than good, depending on your stage of Adrenal Fatigue. Onions, green peppers, tomatoes, and broccoli are also good sources, but you would need to eat copious amounts to get the same benefits.
Taking a supplement like Allerdim may help you if you develop sensitivities and have inflammation. It also contains bromelain, a digestive enzyme. Bromelain and quercetin have a synergistic effect on each other.
Bromelain
Bromelain is an enzyme found in pineapple stems. It is an excellent anti-inflammatory agent that promotes healing in muscles and joints. It also helps in managing inflammatory conditions such as colitis, asthma, allergies, and arthritis.
Ginkgo Biloba
Ginkgo Biloba is another of the Adrenal Fatigue supplements with antioxidant properties. Because of these properties, it has been used in Chinese Medicine to fight off the mental symptoms so common in Adrenal Fatigue. These include brain fog, memory loss, and mental fatigue.
This herb may also protect different organs and systems from free radical damage.
Brain Trust contains Ginkgo and numerous other beneficial herbs that promote brain health.
Maca Root
Maca root, traditionally used to address fertility issues, may increase libido and energy levels.
However, if you are using this herb for Adrenal Fatigue, it should be done with the guidance of a healthcare provider. It does have stimulating properties that may not be suitable for you, depending on your stage of the condition.
Desiccated Thyroid Glandular
Usually used by people suffering from hypothyroidism, a desiccated thyroid glandular is commonly made from the thyroid glands of pigs, sheep, or cows.
Low thyroid function is common in people with Adrenal Fatigue.
Do not, however, use this glandular if you are already using thyroid medication. Doing so may result in hyperthyroidism.
Adrenal Glandular
An adrenal glandular like Adrenal Rescue may prove efficient in helping with recovery during the earlier stages of Adrenal Fatigue. The glandular is an Adrenal Fatigue supplement that may boost energy levels and help address feelings of anxiety.
The glandular may, however, have a stimulatory effect in the latter stages of Adrenal Fatigue if you have weakened adrenals. It may trigger paradoxical reactions. This is why using the correct Adrenal Fatigue supplements at the right time is so important.
In Closing
Following a healthy diet, getting sufficient sleep, engaging in gentle forms of exercise, and practicing stress management strategies should be the first steps in your Adrenal Fatigue Recovery program.
Although using Adrenal Fatigue supplements may help with the recovery process, you need to err on the side of caution. This is because different Adrenal Fatigue supplements may only work during certain stages of recovery. Also, because the condition and its myriad symptoms are unique to each person, you need to tailor the use of these supplements to your body’s needs.
At Lam Clinic, we understand that stress can take a deep toll on body and mind. Our team helps you move from survival to renewal, embracing progress over perfection along the way. Book your consultation today to start reclaiming your energy and peace of mind.