The Adrenal Glands
The adrenals are ductless glands of the endocrine system that are responsible for producing some of the most important hormones in the body. Hormones are chemicals that regulate various physiological activities. The steroid hormones are essential for life.
The adrenal cortex is stimulated by pituitary hormones to produce three kinds of corticosteroids. They are mineralocorticoids, glucocorticoids, and androgens.
Mineralocorticoids (such as aldosterone) help in the regulation of blood pressure and electrolyte balance. The glucocorticoids cortisol and cortisone include the regulation of metabolism and immune system suppression. The androgens are converted to fully functional sex hormones in the gonads and other target organs.
The production of the important adrenal hormones always requires active work by the cells and results in an expenditure of energy. Homeostasis in the body requires that a proper amount of vitamins and nutrients be available in the blood to allow for the quick response to an increase in cellular energy needs. When the body labors under any physical stress, homeostasis may be affected.
Nutrients
PANTOTHENIC ACID plays a role in the release of energy from carbohydrates; and in the synthesis of such vital compounds as sterols and steroid hormones and porphyrins.
FOLIC ACID Folic acid’s metabolic role is interdependent with B-12 and both are required for cell growth and cell reproduction in the body.
VITAMIN B-12 is necessary for the synthesis of nucleic acids (RNA and DNA), the maintenance of myelin in the nervous system, and the proper functioning of folic acid.
VITAMIN C is concentrated in both parts of the adrenal gland, is essential in the production of the two active hormones epinephrine and norepinephrine by the adrenal medulla.
Dietary Suggestions
● Eat tuna, salmon or deep-water ocean fish several times a week.
● Brown rice, nuts, olive oil and whole grains are good dietary additions.
● Include fruits and vegetables, especially green leafy varieties, garlic and onions.
● Decrease consumption of fried foods, "bad" fats and processed foods. Foods that are difficult to digest put extra stress on body systems.
● Avoid alcohol, tobacco, caffeine, sodas, sugar and white flour.
Lifestyle
● Do get moderate exercise regularly
● Avoid stress, including overwork and any sustained tension; avoid excesses of heat or cold;
● Practice some type of relaxation exercise everyday: yoga, meditation, sitting with your feet up and eyes closed, walking in a pleasant quiet space, listening to music, reading, something that YOU find relaxing.
● Go to sleep as early as possible. Lack of sleep on a regular basis contributes to physical and mental stress.