by Corrine Wang, N.D.
One of the most common complaints people consult me about is stress.
Usually, they’re concerned about simple fatigue, as well as other stress-related symptoms such as anxiety, uncontrolled thoughts, brain fog, poor sleep, etc.
The “cure” to stress isn’t terribly complicated: rebalance your body chemistry, and reduce the stressors in your life.
Some excellent “lifestyle” stress relievers include deep breathing, yoga, meditation, exercise, and regular bedtimes.
I also suggest that my clients take some basic supplements that support the adrenal glands.
Here are some of my favorite nutrients and herbs for restoring and healing your adrenals.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is critical for healthy adrenal function and repair. It’s also a key factor in maintaining a healthy immune system.
Vitamin C helps the body produce the hormones cortisol, norepinephrine, and epinephrine, all of which are necessary for healthy adrenal functioning.
Because vitamin C is quickly used up by the body, it should be taken several times a day. When the stress in your life increases, your body’s need for vitamin C rises, along with its need for other key nutrients.
B-complex vitamins, especially pantothenic acid (vitamin B5)
The B vitamins play a major role in our physical and emotional well-being – they’re indispensable for maintaining a healthy metabolism, high energy, and an upbeat mood.
Just as with vitamin C, the body needs more B vitamins when stress levels rise. Pantothenic acid (B5) is particularly crucial for healthy adrenal functioning.
Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra)
Licorice has long been a staple of Chinese medicine, where it’s prescribed for increasing energy and endurance and nourishing the adrenals.
Licorice increases the half-life of cortisol, allowing it to function longer in the body, so the adrenals don’t have to make as much in times of stress. Licorice can also help with hypoglycemia and other blood sugar problems associated with impaired adrenal functioning.
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera)
Ashwagandha is an Indian herb that increases strength and vigor and helps bring adrenal function back into the normal range. For example, if cortisol levels are high or low, ashwagandha helps stabilize them.
Ashwagandha decreases inflammation, so it can be very helpful for rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis – conditions I commonly see in my patients with adrenal fatigue.
If you’re concerned about the stress in your life, I invite you to make an appointment so we can evaluate your adrenal status. We can also assess other stress-related issues, such as thyroid functioning, and draw up a treatment plan specific to your needs.
I’m happy to answer your questions. To get in touch with me, or to make an appointment, give our clinic a call at (650) 917-1121 or leave a message using the Contact Form.
For more information about Dr. Corrine Wang and her mind/body approach to wellness and healing, visit her website: http://www.drcorrinewang.com.