Think of your adrenal glands as your body’s emergency energy generator. Ideally, your energy comes from carbohydrates, fats, nutrients, oxygen, and thyroid hormones. However, when stress levels rise, your adrenals step in, releasing cortisol and adrenaline to keep you going. In short bursts—like responding to danger or powering through a tough day—this response is beneficial. But when stress becomes chronic due to overwork, under-eating, excessive exercise, or poor sleep, the adrenals work overtime, leading to hormonal imbalances. The "Progesterone Steal" and Chronic Stress One key effect of chronic stress is the "progesterone steal." When stress levels remain high, your body...
Stress and hormonal imbalances are significant contributors to weight gain, often leading to increased fat storage, particularly around the abdomen. Understanding the interplay between stress, hormones, and weight can empower individuals to take effective steps toward achieving and maintaining a healthy weight. The Role of Stress in Weight Gain Chronic stress triggers the release of hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol. While adrenaline can temporarily suppress appetite, cortisol increases it, prompting cravings for high-calorie, sugary foods. This hormonal response can lead to overeating and subsequent weight gain. Additionally, cortisol encourages fat storage, especially in the abdominal area, which is associated...
So is adrenal fatigue a condition related to too little cortisol or too much adrenaline? The distinction is important, since the treatments for the two conditions differ.