Stressful situations can trigger the body's internal alarm system. Messages are sent from the brain to the adrenal glands directing them to release cortisol as a defense mechanism. But while it is a temporary necessity to thwart danger, the continuous production of cortisol and other hormones causes the adrenals to become fatigued and can impair their ability to function correctly.
Adrenal Fatigue
Adrenal fatigue is the term used to explain the symptoms and conditions that occur throughout the body as the result of inadequately performing adrenal glands. Since the adrenals are the epicenter for the metabolism of nutrients, fluids, electrolytes and the functioning of the cardiovascular system, the body overcompensates to try to counteract these effects. Symptoms vary but typically there is an overall feeling of fatigue and lack of energy. Many sufferers turn to stimulants such as caffeine. According to Dr. Michael Galitzer, a physician who specializes in bio identical hormone replacement therapy and anti-aging medicine, "When people are under enormous and prolonged stress, they will experience adrenal fatigue."
Adrenal Function
The adrenals are two walnut-sized glands that sit above the kidneys. Their primary function is to prepare the body for "fight or flight" when faced with threatening or stressful circumstances. The adrenals release a multitude of hormones, including adrenaline and cortisol, which are meant to assist the body in overcoming the stress. The heart rate speeds up as blood and oxygen are shuttled to the muscles in preparation for action. Once the stress has been avoided and/or eliminated, messages are sent to the adrenals to release another round of hormones that counteract the adrenaline and cortisol and calm everything down.
Cortisol and HGH
Cortisol is a steroid hormone, which regulates blood sugar and determines the nutrient (fat, protein or carbohydrate) that will be utilized for energy during times of stress. However, this process is only meant to last for short periods. When the stress is continuous, the adrenal glands are forced to continually pump cortisol, which can be harmful. The presence of cortisol can create, imbalances in other hormones, such as DHEA and HGH. Human growth hormone (HGH) is produced by the pituitary gland and is responsible for tissue growth, which leads to increased, muscle mass and energy. It is also helpful in weight control and slowing down the effects of aging.
HGH Supplements
Age, stress and other factors lead to a decrease of the body's natural human growth hormone (HGH) production. Individuals who do not naturally produce enough HGH may be prescribed HGH supplements by a doctor. HGH supplements are believed to reverse the signs of aging, enhance muscle mass, increase energy and promote weight loss. One of the symptoms of adrenal fatigue is weight gain. High levels of cortisol present in the body for extended periods of time can affect the thyroid gland and slow the metabolism. According to Dr. James L. Wilson, Ph.D., author of Adrenal Fatigue: The 21st Century Syndrome, "As the 'glands of stress,' the adrenals play a key role in modulating the effects of stress on the body. Taking steps to properly support and promote optimal adrenal health and function is an essential aspect of any anti-aging program."
Risks
Some of the risks associated with HGH supplements are headaches, muscle pain, inflammation, arthritis and the growth of bones and organs. According to the National Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases Information Service, those taking HGH supplements may be at risk for adrenal crisis. Adrenal crisis occurs when the adrenal or pituitary gland is damaged, and it can be deadly. HGH is not believed to cause adrenal crisis, but people who do not make enough human growth hormone also do not make enough of the hormones vital for proper functioning. If a person is only being supplemented for low levels of human growth hormone, they may not even be aware that they are lacking other hormones such as cortisol. It is the low levels of these hormones that can lead to adrenal crisis. It is illegal to use HGH supplements as an athletic-performance enhancer.
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