You may not be familiar with adrenal fatigue, but you probably know what it's like to experience extreme fatigue that no amount of coffee can fix.

Adrenal fatigue doesn't develop overnight. It's often the result of years of chronic stress, which can come from:

Trauma: Physical injuries, overexertion from exercise, or illness.

Toxins: Environmental pollutants, chemicals in cleaning products, or imbalances in your body such as high histamine levels.

Thoughts: Mental stressors like anxiety, overthinking, or unresolved conflicts.

You can actually test for adrenal fatigue! My favorite diagnostic tool is the DUTCH test (Dried Urine Test for Comprehensive Hormones), which measures free and bioavailable cortisol.

Repeat after me, "I'm not crazy. I'm not lazy. It's my hormones."

Here's what you can do to help:

1. Nutrition: Focus on nourishing your body with adequate protein, vitamins, and minerals. Chronic stress depletes your reserves, so replenishment is crucial.

2. Adaptogens: Herbs like ashwagandha, maca, rhodiola, and reishi can help regulate your stress response by balancing cortisol levels.

3. Sleep: Prioritize quality rest. Consistent sleep is vital for repairing your HPA axis. If your lifestyle involves irregular hours (like night shifts), it may require adjustments.

4. Stress Management: While it's easier said than done, finding ways to lower mental stress—through mindfulness, therapy, or support groups—can make a big difference.

5. Customized Support: Personalized supplements or tinctures may be recommended based on your test results.

Think of it as refueling a car running on empty; you need to fill the tank completely before expecting optimal performance.

If you think you are struggling with stress and cortisol issues, I'd love to help.

Apply for my most comprehensive testing and support here:

https://drbethwestie.com/jumpstart-program/