The Cave Men Had It Better: How Adrenal Glands Affect Stress, Energy & Overall Health
Our adrenal glands play a crucial role in our ability to adapt to stress and maintain resilience. Whether dealing with physical or emotional stress, these two walnut-sized glands—located on top of the kidneys—produce powerful hormones and neurotransmitters that influence your body’s response to stress.
How Adrenal Glands Function
The adrenal glands produce:
- Hormones: Cortisol, DHEA, and aldosterone
- Neurotransmitters: Epinephrine & norepinephrine (commonly known as adrenaline)
In ancient times, stress was short-lived—a fight-or-flight scenario followed by rest and recovery. The caveman, for instance, would start his day in a stress-free environment, peacefully seeking food. But when faced with a life-threatening encounter, his adrenal glands would rapidly activate, helping him fight or flee. Once the stress was gone, he returned to his cave to rest and recover.
Modern Stress vs. Caveman Stress
Unlike our ancestors, modern stressors never stop. Jobs, finances, relationships, social pressures, and daily responsibilities keep our adrenal glands constantly engaged without a chance to reset. This chronic overuse can lead to adrenal fatigue, diminishing hormone production and creating widespread hormonal imbalances.
Signs of Adrenal Fatigue
- Chronic fatigue – Even after 8-9 hours of sleep
- Weak immune system – Frequent infections & slow recovery
- Salt cravings
- Low sex drive
- Weight gain
- Anxiety, panic attacks, mood swings
- Insomnia – Trouble falling asleep or waking up at 3-4 AM
- Caffeine dependence – Needing stimulants to get through the day
- Depression & irritability
Why Adrenal Dysfunction Affects Other Hormones
Adrenal fatigue doesn’t just drain energy; it disrupts balance in other key hormones, including:
- ✅ Insulin – Affects blood sugar & cravings
- ✅ Estrogen & progesterone – Causing hormonal fluctuations
- ✅ Testosterone – Leading to low libido & muscle loss
- ✅ Thyroid hormones – Slowing metabolism & increasing fatigue
- ✅ Melatonin – Contributing to sleep disturbances
How to Test for Adrenal Fatigue
The best assessment is a home saliva test, which evaluates cortisol curves, DHEA, and related hormones such as estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, and melatonin.
How to Restore Adrenal Health
Healing adrenal fatigue requires a personalized approach, including:
- ✅ Dietary Adjustments – Low-starch, high-protein meals to stabilize blood sugar
- ✅ Hormonal Support – Balancing deficiencies through functional medicine
- ✅ Targeted Nutraceuticals – Supplements to restore adrenal function
- ✅ Stress Management Techniques – Yoga, meditation, and restorative sleep
Get Your Energy & Vitality Back
If you’re tired of being exhausted, don’t settle for symptom management—treat the root cause and regain your energy, mood, and resilience.
SCHEDULE YOUR CONSULTATION
Dr. Charles Campbell
📞 (281) 772-3451
🌐 www.campbellfunctionalmedicine.com
Serving Kingwood, Texas, and surrounding areas since 1993.
Now, we also serve patients in Hendersonville, North Carolina, and surrounding areas.