Adrenal Fatigue Syndrome

Stressedby8
Stressedby8 Posts: 53 Member
edited November 22 in Health and Weight Loss
Any other suffers out there, put your hands up!
Just found out that is my issue so totally changing my diet.
I have been on a total roll the past few months, tracking, eating healthy, but apparently all the wrong things.
I need to totally cut out all sugar, fruit, dairy.
Struggling to come up with a good plan for breakfast. Lunch and dinner are okay. Just a protein and veggies.
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Replies

  • MrsMunsell
    MrsMunsell Posts: 37 Member
    I just learned about adrenal fatigue from my friend that changed her adrenal fatigue by going vegan. Cutting sugar, fruit and dairy is hard for breakfast
  • LeanButNotMean44
    LeanButNotMean44 Posts: 852 Member
    From the Endocrine Society:

    The term “adrenal fatigue” has been used to explain a group of symptoms that are said to occur in people who are under long-term mental, emotional, or physical stress. Supporters of adrenal fatigue say that you may be more likely to develop this condition if, for example, you have a stressful job; are a shift worker, working student, or single parent; or if you abuse alcohol or drugs.

    Adrenal FatigueSymptoms said to be due to adrenal fatigue include tiredness, trouble falling asleep at night or waking up in the morning, salt and sugar craving, and needing stimulants like caffeine to get through the day. These symptoms are common and non-specific, meaning they can be found in many diseases. They also can occur as part of a normal, busy life.

    No scientific proof exists to support adrenal fatigue as a true medical condition. Doctors are concerned that if you are told you have this condition, the real cause of your symptoms may not be found and treated correctly. Also, treatment for adrenal fatigue may be expensive, since insurance companies are unlikely to cover the costs.

    http://www.hormone.org/hormones-and-health/myth-vs-fact/adrenal-fatigue
  • SergeantSausage
    SergeantSausage Posts: 1,673 Member
    Bunk.

    WooWoo at its finest.
  • Liftng4Lis
    Liftng4Lis Posts: 15,151 Member
    From the Endocrine Society:

    The term “adrenal fatigue” has been used to explain a group of symptoms that are said to occur in people who are under long-term mental, emotional, or physical stress. Supporters of adrenal fatigue say that you may be more likely to develop this condition if, for example, you have a stressful job; are a shift worker, working student, or single parent; or if you abuse alcohol or drugs.

    Adrenal FatigueSymptoms said to be due to adrenal fatigue include tiredness, trouble falling asleep at night or waking up in the morning, salt and sugar craving, and needing stimulants like caffeine to get through the day. These symptoms are common and non-specific, meaning they can be found in many diseases. They also can occur as part of a normal, busy life.

    No scientific proof exists to support adrenal fatigue as a true medical condition. Doctors are concerned that if you are told you have this condition, the real cause of your symptoms may not be found and treated correctly. Also, treatment for adrenal fatigue may be expensive, since insurance companies are unlikely to cover the costs.

    http://www.hormone.org/hormones-and-health/myth-vs-fact/adrenal-fatigue

    YOU, I like!
  • CSARdiver
    CSARdiver Posts: 6,252 Member
    From the Endocrine Society:

    The term “adrenal fatigue” has been used to explain a group of symptoms that are said to occur in people who are under long-term mental, emotional, or physical stress. Supporters of adrenal fatigue say that you may be more likely to develop this condition if, for example, you have a stressful job; are a shift worker, working student, or single parent; or if you abuse alcohol or drugs.

    Adrenal FatigueSymptoms said to be due to adrenal fatigue include tiredness, trouble falling asleep at night or waking up in the morning, salt and sugar craving, and needing stimulants like caffeine to get through the day. These symptoms are common and non-specific, meaning they can be found in many diseases. They also can occur as part of a normal, busy life.

    No scientific proof exists to support adrenal fatigue as a true medical condition. Doctors are concerned that if you are told you have this condition, the real cause of your symptoms may not be found and treated correctly. Also, treatment for adrenal fatigue may be expensive, since insurance companies are unlikely to cover the costs.

    http://www.hormone.org/hormones-and-health/myth-vs-fact/adrenal-fatigue

    Thank you!
  • ahoy_m8
    ahoy_m8 Posts: 3,053 Member
    edited August 2015
    Can you have eggs? Eggs on a bed of black beans, a frittata or spinach omplette are good protein and fiber rich options. Hubby went through a stage where he didn't want eggs every day because cholesterol (??) so I pre-cooked & portioned a different tofu scramble every week--Mediterranean spices with tomato& chicpea, hatch green chili with hominy, taco spices with tomato &black beans, etc--endless combinations. Think his fav was Indian spice with spinach, like sagwala.

    I've never heard adrenal fatigue is woo or a dubious diagnosis. I have read, though, that progesterone, testosterone and cortisol share the same precursor hormone. If the adrenal glands are overusing the precursor hormone (relative to available cholesterol) to make high levels of cortisol all the time, progesterone and testosterone can drop below normal.

    ETA: https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Adrenal_cortex#/media/File:Adrenal_steroid_hormone_synthesis.png
  • Stressedby8
    Stressedby8 Posts: 53 Member
    I went to my regular doctor, had the blood tests done and the saliva tests done. I am a 53 year old woman in full menopause.
    AFS therefore in my case is not bunk. THERE IS scientific proof and my Doctor has diagnosed it.

    Reading a report on the internet vs. my medical doctor. Think I will take her advice over that.

    Not sure what WooWoo means.

    I was just asking if anyone else suffers with this as I do and thought I could get support from those with the experience.

    Thanks Ahoy_m8 for your support.

    Yes I can have eggs, just don't want them every day.
  • livingleanlivingclean
    livingleanlivingclean Posts: 11,751 Member
    If you want a protein/vegie based breakfast, eat what you'd eat for lunch or dinner. Easy. I'd make sure there was lots of healthy fats too
  • azulvioleta6
    azulvioleta6 Posts: 4,195 Member
    I went to my regular doctor, had the blood tests done and the saliva tests done. I am a 53 year old woman in full menopause.
    AFS therefore in my case is not bunk. THERE IS scientific proof and my Doctor has diagnosed it.

    Reading a report on the internet vs. my medical doctor. Think I will take her advice over that.

    Not sure what WooWoo means.

    I was just asking if anyone else suffers with this as I do and thought I could get support from those with the experience.

    Thanks Ahoy_m8 for your support.

    Yes I can have eggs, just don't want them every day.

    A "regular" doctor cannot diagnose adrenal issues.

    Have you seen an endocrinologist?
  • Stressedby8
    Stressedby8 Posts: 53 Member
    yes and that is who did the saliva testing.
  • caffeinatedcami
    caffeinatedcami Posts: 168 Member
    http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/addisons-disease/expert-answers/adrenal-fatigue/faq-20057906

    Here is a link to a Mayo Clinic page explaining that adrenal fatigue is not an accepted medical diagnosis. Is it possible your endocrinologist said you have adrenal insufficiency (where your body doesn't produce enough adrenal hormones)? It sounds like you might want to schedule another appointment with your doctor so he/she can explain what the results mean. If not perhaps a second opinion is in order. There is so much misleading medical information out there that it can be hard to know what's legitimate. Sorry if you feel that we are jumping down your throat but a pseudo-medical diagnosis can be harmful to your weight-loss resolve and prevent you from finding the actual cause of your symptoms.
  • caffeinatedcami
    caffeinatedcami Posts: 168 Member
    edited August 2015
    Also as someone currently studying to be a doctor I have to tell you that a doctor's word is not gospel. Like all human beings they can be wrong. If a doctor is diagnosing patients with diseases that are not accepted by the rest of the medical/scientific community then you should probably get a new doctor. I am not trying to be unsympathetic. I completely understand feeling physically awful on a regular basis and not being able to explain your symptoms.
  • SergeantSausage
    SergeantSausage Posts: 1,673 Member
    I went to my regular doctor, had the blood tests done and the saliva tests done. I am a 53 year old woman in full menopause.
    AFS therefore in my case is not bunk. THERE IS scientific proof and my Doctor has diagnosed it.

    Reading a report on the internet vs. my medical doctor. Think I will take her advice over that.

    Not sure what WooWoo means.

    I was just asking if anyone else suffers with this as I do and thought I could get support from those with the experience.

    Thanks Ahoy_m8 for your support.

    Yes I can have eggs, just don't want them every day.

    Your "doctor" is a quack.

    Recommendation: Get a second opinion and find another doctor.

    You *may* have Adrenal Insufficiency - a *real* disorder that an Endocrinologist can help you with.

    Your so-called "doctor" is "diagnosing" you with something that doesn't exist. This is not only ignorant, but it is *dangerous*. You have no idea what is causing your symptoms because you are seeing a quack.



  • brendak76
    brendak76 Posts: 241 Member
    I'm curious what the saliva test was for. I've never heard of it. My son has Addison's disease (autoimmune adrenal failure) and has a battery of blood tests every 3 months. It's not something to mess around with. An adrenal crisis can be fatal in minutes if not treated.
  • Stressedby8
    Stressedby8 Posts: 53 Member
    Thanks all for the feedback, suggestions and doctor bashing lol. That was not my question, but funny how quickly everyone gets on their high-horse. lol

    In answer to my original question, I guess no one here is suffering from menopause symptoms and adrenal fatigue like me.

    I will still take the advice of my Doctor, Endocrinologist and Naturopath, thanks anyways.
  • frostysauce757
    frostysauce757 Posts: 2 Member
    Was the saliva test done at intervals throughout the day? A one off saliva test wouldn't be useful for determining an adrenal issue as your cortisol level changes throughout the day. Adrenal fatigue is more like a symptom than it is a medical issue. For example, athletes can induce adrenal fatigue by over-training. Adrenal fatigue isn't the cause, over-training is.
  • Cherimoose
    Cherimoose Posts: 5,208 Member
    Thanks all for the feedback, suggestions and doctor bashing lol. That was not my question, but funny how quickly everyone gets on their high-horse. lol

    Here on MFP, we pride ourselves on being judgmental B)

    If you're trying to lose weight, all that's required is a calorie deficit. For your medical issues, you might try googling for forums dedicated to those.
  • SergeantSausage
    SergeantSausage Posts: 1,673 Member
    edited August 2015
    I will still take the advice of my Doctor, Endocrinologist and Naturopath, thanks anyways.


    here's+your+sign.png



    Naturopathy is WooWoo









  • Stressedby8
    Stressedby8 Posts: 53 Member
    Naturopathy is a very great source of information and good, clean eating and supplements. Pretty much what we are all looking for on MFP, isn't it?
    But as in all things in life, to each his own. No need to be insulting.
    And yes, Cherimoose, I can see that now.... no worries, I have thick skin.
  • LeanButNotMean44
    LeanButNotMean44 Posts: 852 Member
    edited August 2015
    Naturopathy is a very great source of information and good, clean eating and supplements. Pretty much what we are all looking for on MFP, isn't it?
    But as in all things in life, to each his own. No need to be insulting.
    And yes, Cherimoose, I can see that now.... no worries, I have thick skin.

    I hope you will reconsider spending a BUNCH of your hard-earned money on a bunch of stuff that won't help any of your (real [menopause] or perceived [adrenal fatigue]) issues. Friends of mine did the same thing and greatly regret it.
  • Stressedby8
    Stressedby8 Posts: 53 Member
    OK, so LeanButNotM, how do you suggest I get better? I have major menopause issues, which include, zero energy. When I go to ride my bike I get dizzy, heart starts to flutter and I have to stop, then I throw up. I have tried everything for the past two years to get help with all these issues.

    Naturopath seems to have gotten to the bottom of my issues and "adrenal failure" seems to make sense, because when I start to over-exert I get sick.

    What does everyone on here suggest I do if my doctor and naturopath are quacks?
  • LeanButNotMean44
    LeanButNotMean44 Posts: 852 Member
    OK, so LeanButNotM, how do you suggest I get better? I have major menopause issues, which include, zero energy. When I go to ride my bike I get dizzy, heart starts to flutter and I have to stop, then I throw up. I have tried everything for the past two years to get help with all these issues.

    Naturopath seems to have gotten to the bottom of my issues and "adrenal failure" seems to make sense, because when I start to over-exert I get sick.

    What does everyone on here suggest I do if my doctor and naturopath are quacks?

    I am not a doctor, nor do I play one on MFP (despite what you may think). ;)

    How is your nutrition? Are you eating enough (not sure if you are here to lose weight, just to track calories/macros, or what)? Are you hydrated? Are you sleeping well?

    Although I am not (yet) menopausal, I understand that some of the symptoms (hot flashes/night sweats) can cause disruptive sleep.

    If you would prefer not to divulge this information on a public forum, please feel free to send me a PM. As I mentioned, I have friends who have spent a FORTUNE on naturopaths and regret doing so. It seems that their MO is to diagnose a patient with some made-up condition, project optimism that whatever vitamins/herbs they sell will fix everything, and then pump a person full of crap that doesn't do anything to help.

  • CSARdiver
    CSARdiver Posts: 6,252 Member
    edited August 2015
    Naturopathic Physicians (the other NP) get a bad reputation largely due to the lack of standardization in training. The doc who overran our gross anatomy lab was a naturopathic physician - his schooling took him through the full allopathic and osteopathic, in addition to his naturopathic curriculum. While one of most brilliant physicians, the lack of standardization in licensing prohibited him from any direct treatment and he was only able to consult and teach.

    The problem with the development of new syndromes before there is scientific proof is that diagnosis of such broad spectrum issues such as adrenal fatigue syndrome does not drill deep enough into the root cause and only treat the symptoms, thereby allowing the root cause to persist and possibly worsen.
  • jumpybeans
    jumpybeans Posts: 71 Member
    LOL @ the term "WooWoo". Must attempt to use this in conversation in the near future...

    In all seriousness though, I have read about adrenal fatigue in the past and can see how one can be completely worn down after a long period of stress/illness/etc. But, I can't really say if I believe it is a medical condition as opposed to something that just naturally happens when dealing with "stuff". When we are stressed, we aren't taking care of ourselves. When we have demanding jobs, we aren't taking care of ourselves. When we have too much on our minds, we cannot sleep. It just seems to be common knowledge.

    I'm 100% on board with the fact you probably feel run down, and I'm certain that taking care of yourself will help tremendously! Start by eating healthy, exercising, taking time to do things you love, etc.
  • kshama2001
    kshama2001 Posts: 28,052 Member
    edited August 2015
    Thanks all for the feedback, suggestions and doctor bashing lol. That was not my question, but funny how quickly everyone gets on their high-horse. lol

    In answer to my original question, I guess no one here is suffering from menopause symptoms and adrenal fatigue like me.

    I will still take the advice of my Doctor, Endocrinologist and Naturopath, thanks anyways.
    Yes, lots of women here are in and around menopause (I'm peri) and I believe there's a menopause group. Perhaps someone will come along and post a link to it.
    Naturopathy is a very great source of information and good, clean eating and supplements. Pretty much what we are all looking for on MFP, isn't it?
    But as in all things in life, to each his own. No need to be insulting.
    And yes, Cherimoose, I can see that now.... no worries, I have thick skin.
    Here on the main forums the focus is on CICO rather than clean eating. Here's a link to the clean eating group: http://community.myfitnesspal.com/en/group/133-clean-eating-group
  • kshama2001
    kshama2001 Posts: 28,052 Member
    Any other suffers out there, put your hands up!
    Just found out that is my issue so totally changing my diet.
    I have been on a total roll the past few months, tracking, eating healthy, but apparently all the wrong things.
    I need to totally cut out all sugar, fruit, dairy.
    Struggling to come up with a good plan for breakfast. Lunch and dinner are okay. Just a protein and veggies.

    How about eggs or the same thing you would have for lunch or dinner?

  • Stressedby8
    Stressedby8 Posts: 53 Member

    I am not a doctor, nor do I play one on MFP (despite what you may think). ;)

    How is your nutrition? Are you eating enough (not sure if you are here to lose weight, just to track calories/macros, or what)? Are you hydrated? Are you sleeping well?

    Although I am not (yet) menopausal, I understand that some of the symptoms (hot flashes/night sweats) can cause disruptive sleep.

    If you would prefer not to divulge this information on a public forum, please feel free to send me a PM. As I mentioned, I have friends who have spent a FORTUNE on naturopaths and regret doing so. It seems that their MO is to diagnose a patient with some made-up condition, project optimism that whatever vitamins/herbs they sell will fix everything, and then pump a person full of crap that doesn't do anything to help.

    [/quote]

    Thanks for asking, my nutrition was not good three months ago when I joing MFP. I have lost 12 lbs by following Weight Watchers and logging on every day with MFP. I was eating pretty healthy with a few added snacks and wine! I drink at least 3 litres of water a day.

    I was going along thinking that I was taking good care of myself nutritionally and exercise wise. But my body was failing me.

    I have been in menopause for 2 years. Hot flashes, not sleeping at night. Another part of adrenal stress is no sleep because apparently they regenerate at night time.

    I also have all the stress of a large family and working in a family business.

    I will check out the menopause group, good idea.

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  • editorgrrl
    editorgrrl Posts: 7,060 Member
    kshama2001 wrote: »
    Yes, lots of women here are in and around menopause (I'm peri) and I believe there's a menopause group. Perhaps someone will come along and post a link to it.

    http://community.myfitnesspal.com/en/group/506-near-or-post-menopausal-group
    I have been on a total roll the past few months, tracking, eating healthy, but apparently all the wrong things.
    I need to totally cut out all sugar, fruit, dairy.
    Struggling to come up with a good plan for breakfast. Lunch and dinner are okay. Just a protein and veggies.

    Neither menopause nor "adrenal fatigue" changes the fact that you lose weight by eating fewer calories than you burn—period. Learn to log everything you eat & drink accurately & honestly. Logging works.
  • LeanButNotMean44
    LeanButNotMean44 Posts: 852 Member

    Thanks for asking, my nutrition was not good three months ago when I joing MFP. I have lost 12 lbs by following Weight Watchers and logging on every day with MFP. I was eating pretty healthy with a few added snacks and wine! I drink at least 3 litres of water a day.

    I was going along thinking that I was taking good care of myself nutritionally and exercise wise. But my body was failing me.

    I have been in menopause for 2 years. Hot flashes, not sleeping at night. Another part of adrenal stress is no sleep because apparently they regenerate at night time.

    I also have all the stress of a large family and working in a family business.

    I will check out the menopause group, good idea.

    Poor nutrition, poor sleep, stress, menopause symptoms - these are your issues, not some trumped up diagnosis from a naturopath. It is not surprising (to me, anyway) that you did not feel well while exercising.

    Have you tried yoga or meditation/breathing exercises?

    I think working in a family business alone would cause me more stress than I would know how to handle.
This discussion has been closed.