Adrenal Glands: Functions, Health Importance, and Signs of Dysfunction
- Dr. Nazanin Safaei, ND, MS
- Jun 27
- 3 min read
The adrenal glands, small but mighty, play a crucial role in maintaining balance in the body. Sitting atop each kidney, these triangular-shaped glands are part of the endocrine system and produce essential hormones that influence metabolism, immune response, blood pressure, stress response, and more. Supporting adrenal health is vital for energy, resilience, and overall well-being.
What Do the Adrenal Glands Do?
The adrenal glands are divided into two main regions: the cortex and the medulla. Each part releases different hormones:
Adrenal Cortex: Produces corticosteroids such as cortisol, which helps control metabolism, inflammation, energy, and the stress response; weak androgens such as DHEA & DHEA-S that will be converted to testosterone and estrogen; as well as aldosterone, which helps regulate blood pressure and electrolyte balance.
Adrenal Medulla: Produces adrenaline (epinephrine) and noradrenaline (norepinephrine), hormones involved in the body’s "fight or flight" response.
These hormones work in harmony to keep your body functioning optimally, especially under stress.
Why Is Adrenal Health Important?
When the adrenal glands function properly, they help the body respond to physical and emotional stress, maintain stable energy levels, and support immune and cardiovascular health. However, modern lifestyles filled with chronic stress, poor sleep, processed foods, and environmental toxins can overburden the adrenals, leading to dysfunction.
Signs and Symptoms of Adrenal Dysfunction
Adrenal dysfunction can present in many ways, depending on whether the glands are under- or over-producing hormones. Some common signs include:
Fatigue, especially upon waking
Difficulty coping with stress
Brain fog or trouble concentrating
Salt and sugar cravings
Low blood pressure or dizziness when standing
Mood swings or irritability
Poor sleep or insomnia
Unexplained weight loss or gain
These symptoms are often non-specific, making adrenal issues easy to overlook or misdiagnose.
Lifestyle Choices Supporting Adrenal Health
To protect and support your adrenal glands:
Get 7–9 hours of quality sleep each night
Maintain a consistent sleep and eating schedule
Manage stress with mindfulness, meditation, therapy, or other calming activities
Eat balanced, whole-food meals rich in protein, healthy fats, and complex carbs
Ensure proper and adequate nutrient intake
Avoid excess caffeine, sugar, and alcohol
Exercise regularly but avoid overtraining
Avoid smoking and smokeless nicotine
When to See a Doctor
If you’re experiencing persistent fatigue, unexplained weight changes, or other symptoms of adrenal dysfunction, it’s essential to consult a healthcare provider. Blood, urine, and saliva tests can help assess hormone levels and adrenal function.
Conclusion
Your adrenal glands are vital for energy, resilience, and overall vitality. Supporting their health through lifestyle choices and early recognition of symptoms can prevent more serious hormonal imbalances. While adrenal fatigue remains a debated diagnosis, the impacts of stress and hormone disruption on adrenal function are very real and deserve attention.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making changes to your diet, lifestyle, or health care regimen.
References
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©2025 by Nazanin Safaei, ND, MS
