Adrenal Fatigue Symptoms & Treatment for Men
What is Adrenal Fatigue?
Stress is one of the most significant factors affecting men’s health, and adrenal fatigue syndrome is closely linked to it.
The adrenal glands, located above the kidneys, regulate the body's response to stress, also known as the "fight or flight" response.
Adrenal fatigue occurs due to hormonal imbalances, primarily involving cortisol, the body’s main stress hormone.
The adrenal glands release cortisol in response to stress, low blood sugar, excitement, and exercise. Normally, cortisol levels peak in the morning and gradually decrease throughout the day. However, when stress is excessive or prolonged, the adrenal glands become overworked, leading to chronic stress. This constant demand on the adrenal glands eventually impairs their ability to produce adequate cortisol, resulting in adrenal fatigue and other hormonal imbalances. Initially, chronic stress elevates cortisol, but over time, cortisol levels drop as the adrenal glands become fatigued.
Causes of Adrenal Fatigue in Men
Adrenal fatigue develops when people experience chronic stress. In response, the adrenal glands continuously produce cortisol to cope with the stress, eventually becoming overworked. This leads to reduced cortisol production and adrenal fatigue.
The imbalance caused by adrenal fatigue affects other hormones as well, creating a cascade of issues. For example, DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone), a crucial hormone for maintaining overall hormonal balance, also decreases, further contributing to the symptoms of adrenal fatigue in men. Additionally, a rare condition called Cushing’s syndrome can result in high cortisol levels and exacerbate adrenal fatigue.
Symptoms of Adrenal Fatigue in Men
- Mid-day fatigue or low energy
- Trouble falling asleep
- New or worsening allergies
- Sensitivity to chemicals
- Anxiety
- Frequent infections
- Reduced ability to handle stress
- Weakened immune system
- Poor quality sleep
- Depression
- Joint pain
- Reduced sex drive
- Feeling cold (often misdiagnosed as hypothyroidism)
- Cravings for sweet or salty foods
- Erectile dysfunction
- Loss of muscle mass and strength
- Weight gain
- Decreased insulin production
Diagnosing Adrenal Fatigue
If you experience any combination of the above symptoms, it’s important to assess your cortisol levels.
Treatment for Adrenal Fatigue in Men
The first step involves comprehensive lab testing to measure cortisol levels. Afterward, bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) and a customized supplement regimen may be recommended to restore hormonal balance.
To support healthy adrenal function, avoid hydrogenated fats, excessive caffeine, refined carbs, alcohol, and sugar. Eat a nutrient-dense diet with quality protein. Certain foods, such as bananas, pears, dark chocolate, and probiotic-rich yogurt, can help reduce cortisol levels. Get at least eight hours of sleep each night is for adrenal recovery. Additionally, deep breathing, meditation, or a daily walk can further support adrenal health.
Supplements containing adaptogenic herbs like Ashwaganda, Siberian ginseng, Rhodiola rosea, and Schisandra are also known to help reduce cortisol levels.
