Foods that Help Heal the Adrenals

Adrenal fatigue is when your adrenal glands are exhausted and unable to produce adequate quantities of hormones, primarily cortisol, due to chronic stress or infections. If you are struggling with brain fog, low energy, depressive mood, salt and sweet cravings, lightheadedness, and interrupted sleep you could be suffering from adrenal fatigue. My tell tale symptom was that I would sleep 9-10 hours a night and still be exhausted. I would have no energy all day and then be wide awake when it was time to go to sleep. Extreme fatigue is a huge sign that your adrenal glands may not be functioning properly

If you’re experiencing symptoms of adrenal fatigue, your diet could be partly to blame.

Here are 8 foods you should be eating regularly to help heal your adrenal fatigue. 

1. Oysters

They are loaded with zinc, for starters. You need a healthy balance between zinc and copper to ensure your neurotransmitters function properly. This balance can also help you adapt to stress more easily and be less prone to anxiety. Oysters are a great source of vitamin D and vitamin B12 as well.

2. Organic Turkey

When you’re dealing with adrenal fatigue, it’s imperative that you consume adequate amounts of protein. Organic turkey, in particular, can be beneficial to folks who struggle with adrenal fatigue symptoms because it contains tryptophan. Tryptophan is an amino acid that can help you feel calmer and less stressed. This is because it’s a precursor to serotonin, a neurotransmitter that is necessary to balance mood and minimize feelings of anxiety.

3. Organ Meats

Organ meats, especially liver, are packed with vitamin B12, as well as other vitamins like zinc and vitamin D that your body needs to manage stress and function properly. If you like chicken liver mousse, dig in! You can also add small amounts to your meatballs and burgers.

4. Leafy Greens

Leafy green vegetables like spinach, kale, and swiss chard contain healthy doses of magnesium. Your body needs magnesium to carry out a variety of functions, and magnesium also plays a key role in helping.

5. Asparagus

Asparagus is rich in sulfur and contains folate, an essential B vitamin. If you have low levels of folate, you may be prone to neurotransmitter issues. This, in turn, can lead to hormonal imbalances that exacerbate your adrenal fatigue symptoms.

6. Avocados

In addition to consuming sufficient protein, you also need to make sure you’re consuming enough healthy fat to help your body heal. Your body needs fat and cholesterol to produce hormones. It contains high levels of monounsaturated fats, and is a great food to incorporate into your diet. They also contain lots of fiber, which can help your body detox and digest food more efficiently.

7. Coconut Oil

Another good fat source is coconut oil. Coconut oil contains medium-chain triglycerides, which can help with proper brain function. It’s also a very versatile food that you can incorporate in lots of different ways, from baking to roasting vegetables.

8. Sea Salt

Many people who have adrenal fatigue experience electrolyte imbalances. This is due to a deficiency in the steroid hormone aldosterone. Adding plenty of sea salt to your food will help to balance out your electrolytes and minimize some of your symptoms (especially those related to blood pressure). My favorite is Himalayan pink sea salt.