Struggling to make it through the day and still exhausted after a good night’s sleep? Giving in to cravings for sugar, carbohydrates and caffeine throughout the day? Then you may be suffering from some of the pesky symptoms of adrenal fatigue, and we have the foods that can help you renew.

Words LISA HOLMEN

Photography Taylor Kiser on Unsplash

Adrenal fatigue is a condition affecting thousands of Australians due to stress, poor diet and a generally unbalanced lifestyle. It occurs when your body has been under stress for a prolonged period of time, which results in your adrenals becoming over-stimulated and exhausted. High cortisol levels over an extended period can wreak havoc with your body and can be detrimental to your immune function, digestion and hormonal balance. Common symptoms of adrenal fatigue include cravings for salty or sugary food, low energy levels, brain fog and the inability to sleep at night. Other symptoms like weight gain, impaired immunity and hair loss may also be common.

Located on top of your kidneys, these walnut-sized glands produce hormones that help regulate your body’s functioning. Nourishing your adrenals is an essential part of looking after your overall health. They help your body burn fat and protein, regulate sugar and blood pressure and respond to stress. They are also responsible for producing cortisol, a hormone which is activated when your stress levels rise, which helps regulate blood pressure.

Many factors can influence the functioning of your adrenal glands including stress, sleep and exercise. But one of the easiest ways to keep your adrenals nourished is to take a closer look at your diet and give it some tender loving care. Say goodbye to fatigue and brain fog in no time with a few simple tips.

Eat with your natural cortisol cycle