Before the information about what the Adrenals do and what happens when they are "tired" this is a quick little story about my experience. I'm reading an interesting book right now, "The 7 Principles of Fat Burning" by Dr. Berg. Found here: http://www.drberg.com/shop/
I have struggles with thyroid and adrenal issues for several years but it seemed like I couldn't find a medical professional that offered explanations of what is going on internally and how to change your diet and workouts to strengthened your hormones. I've just started this book so I'll keep posting my thoughts but a very interesting point about working out when you have Adrenal issues such as Adrenal Exhaustion or even Adrenal Fatigue. Dr. Berg explains that the Adrenals are tired...they don't need additional stress so your workout routine should be longer but less stressful on the body. You should be doing an exercise that isn't as "taxing" on your body (inside and out), and working out for a longer period of time. Walking, slow swimming, or easy weights..anything that keeps your heartrate around 130 for about an hour.
As a Fitness Instructor I'm used to teaching many classes a week plus my normal workouts. I remember when I started gaining weight. Not just a little weight, but alot of weight. I was gaining 2-3lbs a week. That is alot of weight when you are teaching 5-11 classes per week plus working a physical job. I do remember that when I taught more yoga and weight training, the weight gained "slowed"...but when I had to teach more kickboxing classes I ballooned up each week. So I believe in the idea that sometimes our bodies need longer periods of slower exercise and especially when stress is already present in your life and draining your Adrenals.
So that's my thought about Adrenals today. Of course there's much more to all of this then what I can write about in a couple of paragraphs but it's a step. So if you are working out like crazy and eating lettuce all day, plus burning the candle at both ends, you may have some Adrenal problems.
-Teri Patterson, Founder of Body Systems
Learn more about Beachbody workout programs and let me personally coach you! at http://www.beachbodycoach.com/bodysystems
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Adrenal Fatigue Symptoms
Author: Vienna Miller
Adrenal Fatigue occurs when your adrenal glands - 2 small glands that sit on top of your kidneys - become overworked and depleted. Your adrenal glands are responsible for handling the stresses of your daily life, whether that be physical stress, emotional stress, or psychological stress.
When your adrenal glands become overworked, they cannot keep up with the stresses of your everyday life. You then start to manifest the symptoms of adrenal fatigue.
Note that just because you have one or two of the symptoms of adrenal insufficiency does not mean that you have adrenal fatigue. However if you find you have the majority of these symptoms then you may want to investigate further.
You'll want to learn some of the common causes of adrenal fatigue to see if you can identify with any of these causes in your own life. You'll also want to see your doctor for a full medical workup and diagnosis of adrenal fatigue.
Here are the key symptoms of adrenal fatigue:
You're Tired For No Explainable Reason
People with adrenal fatigue experience extreme physical exhaustion and they don't have an explanation as to why (such as a strenuous workout). This isn't just everyday tiredness it is extreme exhaustion.
You Gain Weight Easily - Especially Around the Middle
People with adrenal fatigue often notice they gain weight very easily. They especially notice the extra weight around the middle - and it's very hard to lose it.
You Have Difficulty Rising In The Morning
Those with adrenal fatigue often find they feel tired when getting up in the morning - even with a full night's sleep. They often need stimulants like caffeine and sugar to 'get going' both in the morning and throughout the day.
You're More Susceptible To Flus and Colds
If you have adrenal fatigue, you may notice that you seem to be catching every flu and cold that comes within 10 feet of you. You'll also notice that it seems harder for your body to bounce back from illness.
You Often Feel Overwhelmed and Run Down
People with adrenal insufficiency often feel run down and overwhelmed with the tasks they have to accomplish. They may feel as if they can't keep up and do it all. (This can lead to other symptoms like depression and social withdrawal)
You May Crave Salty or Sweet Snacks
This may include high protein snacks like meat or cheese. Some people with adrenal fatigue can have an increased craving for salt. You might also notice an intense craving for sweets and fast carbs like donuts, chocolate bars, pastries, ice cream etc.
You Feel Better In A Less Stressful Environment
Many people with adrenal insufficiency feel better when on vacation. Their symptoms may even clear up entirely but then return when they go back to their normal lives.
You Are Troubled By 'Brain Fog' or Inability to Concentrate
This may include things like the inability to remember certain details, appointments, etc. This may also include a feeling of confusion or difficulty concentrating.
Increased PMS For Women
Women with adrenal disorder may find their periods become heavier and/or irregular. They may also notice increased PMS mood swings and/or food cravings.
Those are several key symptoms of adrenal fatigue. Other symptoms include:
Lightheadedness/Low Blood Pressure
Tendency to Tremble When Under Pressure
Reduced Sex Drive
Heart Palpitations
Nervousness/Raw Nerves
Poor Digestion
Feel Most Energetic in the Evening
Extremely Senstive To Cold
If you can identify with the majority of these adrenal fatigue symptoms you may want to read about the causes of adrenal fatigue to see if you can identify with any of them in your own personal life. You'll also want to see your doctor for more tests and a complete diagnosis.
Adrenal fatigue can be overcome and you can feel better. Listen to your body, cut back on stress and treat yourself well.
About the Author
Vienna Miller is a contributing writer to Adrenal Fatigue - helping you learn more about adrenal fatigue.
For more articles on adrenal fatigue see:
http://www.adrenalfatigue.homestead.com/
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