Is Adrenal Fatigue Real? Symptoms & Science Explained (Part 1)

The answer is — yes, but not in the way many people are led to believe.

What Is Adrenal Fatigue?

The true diagnosis of "adrenal fatigue" is adrenal insufficiency, also known as Addison's disease. This occurs when the adrenal glands do not make enough cortisol. Cortisol helps with your stress response, modulates inflammation, regulates metabolism, and affects how your immune system functions. Cortisol is able to affect nearly every organ system within a person's body.

Why Are So Many People Diagnosed With Adrenal Fatigue?

Many functional/alternative medicine practitioners have used the term "adrenal fatigue" to describe feelings of persistent fatigue, muscle weakness, brain fog, and mood changes that are due to prolonged stress leading to adrenal dysfunction. According to many peer-reviewed studies, an adrenal fatigue diagnosis given by many functional/alternative medicine practitioners is not a true medical diagnosis. Yet, it is important to consider that some studies had limitations.

However, the diagnosis of "adrenal fatigue" is frequently given to a person who experiences significant, negative symptoms of stress — whether that stress is emotional, physical, or environmental. So, if it is not "adrenal fatigue," what is causing all of the negative symptoms?

What Is Causing the Negative Symptoms?

First, and most importantly, have an in-depth evaluation with a medical doctor to rule out other health conditions. Many health problems and nutrient deficiencies can cause the same symptoms as "adrenal fatigue." Anemia, sleep apnea, thyroid disease, infections, hormonal impairments, heart and lung problems, depression and anxiety, and kidney and liver diseases are just some medical conditions that could cause these symptoms. If all your medical testing is normal and you still believe you have adrenal fatigue, then consider what types of stress might be affecting you.

Your Bloodwork and Check-Up Came Back Fine — Now What?

Stress coping techniques, adequate sleep, diet, and supplements may help. Many doctors will tell you that "adrenal fatigue" is not real, and that supplements deemed helpful for those suffering from stress will do more harm than good. One just needs to know what to take, and when — that is why it is important to work with a health practitioner and/or do your research.

Here at Integrated Health Products we carry a variety of high-quality, GMP-certified supplements that are helpful when one feels overloaded and drained due to excessive stress or a diagnosis of "adrenal fatigue." Stay tuned for Part 2, where we will discuss ways to alleviate extra stress on the body.

*Contents in this article are not to replace recommendations from your physician. It is recommended that one consults with their doctor before starting any new supplements. Supplements linked in this article have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The products mentioned are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.