We all deal with stress; stress from our job, our family, our lifestyle or an illness. The body’s response to stress is the same; however our ability to bounce back from stress differs from person to person. The difference has to do with our adrenal glands and how well are they functioning.

The adrenal glands are responsible for the regulation of stress, through the synthesis of cortisol and adrenaline. Cortisol regulates blood glucose, fat and protein metabolism, inflammation and lymphatic function. Adrenaline is part of the “flight or fight” response initiated by the sympathetic nervous system. The adrenal glands also play an important role in maintaining homeostasis within the body by regulating water and electrolytes and producing steroid hormones.

A simple way to assess adrenal function is via a saliva cortisol test. The normal cortisol circadian rhythm is elevated in the morning and as the day goes on it decreases. Some people may present with low levels of cortisol throughout the day, high levels throughout the day or a spike in the evening which might be interfering with normal sleep.

Here are five ways to improve your adrenal function:
- Proper nutrition and supplementation to deal with vitamin and mineral deficiencies
- Avoid food that reduce the adrenal function – refined sugar, high carbohydrates and caffeine
- Remove obstacles to good health – food allergies, leaky gut
- Regulate your sleep – consistent sleep and wake times
- Light exercise with bursts of interval training

Are you interested in how well your adrenals are functioning? If so, call today and we can help you test your adrenals, 916-351-9355.