Adrenal Disorders Adrenal Gland Supplements

The adrenal glands are triangular-shaped organs resting on top of each kidney. Each gland normally weighs about five grams and is comprised of two parts: the cortex or outer section, which is responsible for the production of cortisone, and the medulla or central section, which secretes adrenaline.
    The adrenal cortex helps to maintain salt and water balance in the body. It is also involved in the metabolism of carboyhydrates and the regulation of blood sugar. The cortex produces a sex hormone similar to that secreted by the testes as well.
    The medulla of the adrenal gland produces the hormone epinephrine, also called adrenaline, when the body is under stress. This hormone speeds up the rate of metabolism in order to help the body cope with stressful situations.
    The functioning ability of the adrenal glands is most often impaired due to extensive use of cortisone therapy for nonendocrine diseases, such as arthritis and asthma. Long-term use of cortisone drugs causes the adrenal gland to shrink in size. Adrenocortical failure is also caused by pituitary disease and tuberculosis.
    When the adrenal cortex is underactive, a rare disease called Addison's may develop. Discoloration and darkening of the skin is common in people suffering from Addison's disease; discoloration of knees, elbows, scars, skin folds, and creases in the palms are more noticeable when these body parts are exposed to the sun. The mouth, the vagina, and freckles will appear darker. This disease is also characterized by bands of pigment running the length of the nail and darkened hair. Other symptoms include a decreased amount of body hair, such as under the arms, fatigue, a loss of appetite, dizziness or fainting, and inability to cope with stress, nausea, and moodiness. The individual may also constantly complain about being cold.
    Addison's disease is a lifelong condition. In order for the adrenal glands to work at their highest function ability, a victim of Addison's disease must take his medication as prescribed and pay strict attention to his diet; nutritional supplements are recommended.
    Whereas Addison's disease results from an underactive adrenal cortex, Cushing's syndrome is a rare disorder caused by an overactive adrenal cortex. Those with this disease generally are heavy in the abdomen, face, and buttocks, but have very think limbs. Muscular weakness and wasting of muscles are also characteristic of this syndrome. Round, red marks, mimicking acne may appear on the face, and the eyelids may appear swollen. Increased growth of body hair is common, and women may grow mustaches and beards. A "Cushinoid" appearance is frequently present with prolonged cortisone use. People with Cushing's generally are more susceptible to illness and have trouble healing properly. Thinning of the skin from Cushing's syndrome often leads to stretch marks and bruising.
    In order to keep the adrenal glands functioning properly, stress must be avoided. Continuous and prolonged stress from troubled marriages, bad job conditions, illness, or feelings of low esteem or loneliness can be detrimental to the adrenal glands. Because the adrenals must work harder under stressful situations, continuous stress will impair their functioning ability. poor nutritional habits, smoking, and alcohol and drug abuse can also contribute to adrenal failure.

Reduced adrenal function may be indicated by the following: weakness, lethargy, dizziness, headaches, memory problems, food cravings, allergies, and blood sugar disorders.
The normal systolic blood pressure (the higher pressure-120/80) is approximately 10 mm higher when you are standing than when you are lying down.
To test adrenal function, take and compare two blood pressure readings-one while lying down and one while standing. Rest for five minutes in recumbent position (lying down) before taking the reading. Stand up and immediately take the blood pressure again. if the blood pressure is lower after standing, suspect reduced adrenal gland function. The degree to which the blood pressure drops while standing is often proportionate to the degree of hypoadrenalism.

SUPPLEMENT	SUGGESTED DOSAGE	COMMENTS
	NUTRIENTS
Essential
Pantothenic acid (vitamin B6)	100 mg 3 times daily	The adrenal glands will not function adequately without pantothenic acid.
Vitamin B complex	100 mg twice daily	All b vitamins are necessary for adrenal function.
Vitamin C plus bioflavonoids	4,000-10,000 mg daily in divided doses	Vital for proper functioning of the adrenals.
Very Important
L-Tyrosine	500 mg on an empty stomach	L-Tyrosine aids adrenal gland function and relieves excess stress put on the glands.
Important
Raw adrenal extract or freeze-dried tablets and raw adrenal cortex	As directed on label	The protein derived from this adrenal gland substance helps to rebuild and repair the adrenal glands.
Helpful
Chlorophyll	As directed on label	Cleanses the bloodstream
Coenzyme Q10	60 mg daily	Carries oxygen to all glands
Germanium	100 mg daily	A powerful stimulant of the immune system
Liver	As directed on label	Obtain from Argentine beef only, which is from livestock raised without antibiotics, pesticides, and hormones. Supplies natural b vitamins, iron, and enzymes
Mega-multivitamin and mineral complex with beta-carotene and copper and zinc	15,000 IU daily 3 mg daily 50 mg daily	Contains nutrients needed for correct functioning of all glands.
Raw spleen tissue and pituitary glandulars (freeze-dried or extract)	As directed on label	boosts immune function and aids healing process. Available in health food stores.

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