Weight gain can be attributed to a myriad of factors rather than a single, clear-cut cause. Complex interactions between multiple factors influence the process of weight gain. These factors can include an individual’s dietary habits, level of physical activity, genetic predisposition, and exposure to external stressors.
Recent years have witnessed increased attention from the medical and scientific communities towards adrenal fatigue as a potential factor linked to weight gain. Adrenal fatigue develops as the body releases cortisol, which regulates sugars and fats. Some studies have indicated that adrenal fatigue and cortisol are key players in a challenging cycle of weight gain.
At Happy Hormone Cottage, we recommend an approach tailored to the specific needs and lifestyle of each patient, with a focus on addressing adrenal fatigue. This approach has significantly improved many patients’ medical weight loss journey.
In this article, we’ll examine how adrenal health can impact weight.
Understanding Adrenal Fatigue
If you’re experiencing fatigue, sluggishness, and overall weariness without a clear cause, adrenal fatigue may be the underlying issue. Stress is often the catalyst for adrenal fatigue, a condition that arises when the adrenal glands in your body don’t function at their optimal level.
These glands release essential hormones like epinephrine, dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), and cortisone, which are crucial for overall well-being. However, when factors such as stress or illness overstimulate the adrenal glands, pituitary gland, and hypothalamus, they become exhausted and weakened.
The release of hormones at the appropriate levels is disrupted, leading to severe consequences. Mental and physical fatigue can make even the simplest tasks challenging. Even a full night’s sleep may not be sufficient to rejuvenate your energy levels if adrenal fatigue is at play.
Diagnosing Adrenal Fatigue
In addition to a holistic assessment of your symptoms and understanding your daily routines and lifestyle, a cortisol test is typically conducted to gauge cortisol levels in your body. Normally, cortisol levels are highest in the morning and gradually decline throughout the day. However, if your cortisol levels fail to taper off during the day or spike at night rather than in the morning, it could indicate adrenal fatigue.
Common Symptoms of Adrenal Fatigue
Patients often report the following symptoms:
- Fatigue
- Brain fog
- Sugar cravings
- Salt cravings
- Difficulty sleeping or insomnia
- Difficulty waking up
- Lack of motivation
- Loss of appetite
The Impact of Adrenal Fatigue on Weight
Altered cortisol levels resulting from adrenal fatigue don’t just affect your energy; they also affect your weight. A 2016 study discovered a correlation between stress-related high cortisol levels and increased waist size.
In addition to hormonal imbalances contributing to overeating and weight gain, many individuals with adrenal fatigue are too exhausted to exercise. This creates a vicious cycle, making weight loss a considerable challenge.
Addressing Adrenal Fatigue
Managing stress is the best way to treat adrenal fatigue. Other lifestyle factors and a treatment plan that includes exercise and diet are often recommended.
At Happy Hormone Cottage, our team works with you to offer stress relief and adrenal support. We’ll review your condition and recommend the most suitable adrenal support products for your health.
We offer adrenal support supplements and address any accompanying thyroid issues during consultation. We also have thyroid health products that help restore functioning. Regulating cortisol levels can make shedding those extra pounds more achievable and elevate your energy levels.
Adrenal Support Nutraceuticals Available Online and in Centerville, Ohio
The Happy Hormone Cottage has created two separate adrenal support products using studied adaptogens at the proper therapeutic dosing.
Our Adrenal Support system contains proprietary formulations focusing on achieving a desirable cortisol curve. We customize these supplements specifically for our clients (They are found nowhere else!)
