Function of Adrenal Glands

Part of the endocrine system, the adrenal glands are two triangle-shaped organs that rest above the kidneys. Responsible for production and secretion of hormones, the adrenal glands aid the body's reactions to stress and danger. When adrenal function is impaired, serious disorders can arise.

Physiology

Weighing less than one-fifth of an ounce, each adrenal gland is composed of two parts. The outer section is the cortex, which produces hormones including cortisone, cortisol and DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone). The center section of each adrenal gland is the medulla. This part of the organs secretes adrenaline and norepinephrine, a hormone and neurotransmitter.

Features

Adrenal gland function regulates the four primary stress hormones: DHEA, adrenaline, cortisol and norepinephrine. These are the body's front line of defense against stress and danger. Under normal circumstances, the highest levels of stress hormones are released in the morning and lower levels are released at night. Cortisol participates in metabolism of carbohydrates and regulates blood sugar. Adrenaline increases metabolic rate and makes other physiological changes to help the body respond to danger. DHEA, along with androstenedione, is an androgen--a hormone that resembles and can be converted into testosterone.

Health

When the body experiences stress or danger, the adrenal glands release adrenaline and cortisol. Adrenaline increases alertness, while cortisol converts protein into energy and releases stores of glucose for energy to meet the demands of a stressful or dangerous situation. The adrenal response speeds up heart and respiratory rates and raises blood pressure. Muscles tense and digestion slows. Every adrenal gland function prepares the body for attack and each is an ancient human response. When stress passes, adrenal functions restore normal levels of activity and hormones.

Impairment

Fatigue is a primary symptom of adrenal impairment. Symptoms such as weakness, headaches, allergies and blood sugar issues can indicate impaired adrenal function. If the adrenal cortex is underactive enough, serious illness can occur. Diseases associated with severely disordered adrenal function are Addison's disease, Schmidt's syndrome and Cushing's syndrome.

Support

When a person is always in stressful situations, hormone levels stay raised and create loss of energy. Proper rest is essential to adrenal health. Wise dietary habits are also necessary. Eat small meals and snacks frequently throughout the day. This regulates blood sugar and lightens the effects of hunger-induced stress on the adrenal system. Eat plenty of fresh organic fruits and leafy greens. Brewer's yeast, brown rice, legumes and whole grains are essential for adrenal health. Alcohol, caffeine and fatty foods are toxic to adrenal and other glands. Especially helpful are garlic,onions, shiitake mushrooms and pearl barley for their germanium, which may stimulate the immune system. (Cited from James Balch, M.D., Prescription for Nutritional Healing)

Resources

• Adrenal Disorders
• Functional Anatomy of the Adrenal Gland
• Adrenal Health