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What to Take for Adrenal Support

The adrenal glands, located on the top of our kidneys, produce a number of hormones that are essential to our health. When the adrenal glands are not functioning properly, you can have a number of health problems, including fatigue, insomnia, body aches and unexplained loss of weight and body hair. Choosing the right supplements can help support your adrenal glands, keeping them healthy and functioning optimally. You can choose combination products designed specifically for adrenal support, or choose individual supplements.

  1. Amino Acids

    • People with poor adrenal function may have problems digesting protein; this can lead to an inadequate intake of certain amino acids, which are the building blocks of protein. There are several ways to take supplemental amino acids. You can take 10 grams, or two tablespoons, of a liquid hydrolyzed collagen product derived from beef. If you prefer a vegetarian source, you can take a free-form amino acid supplement; one to two teaspoons is the usual dosage. Either form of amino acid can be taken all at once or spread throughout the day, as you prefer. Do not take amino acid supplements if you have kidney problems unless you check with your doctor first.

    Essential Fatty Acids

    • Essential fatty acid supplements are important for overall health and for the adrenal glands. A variety of products are available, including capsules and oils. Udo's Choice Oil Blend is a popular supplement; it is sold as a liquid and requires refrigeration. It should be ingested without cooking. Try using it to make a salad dressing or dip for vegetables, or mix it into a fruit smoothie or protein drink.

    DHEA and 7-Keto DHEA

    • Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is an adrenal hormone. Begin with very small doses, about 5 mg, increasing slowly to an average dose of 10 to 25 mg. daily. Also supporting adrenal function is 7-Keto DHEA; the usual dose is 25 mg. daily. If you have any history of cancer of the sex organs (breast, uterus, ovaries, testicles, prostate), do not take supplemental DHEA.

    GABA

    • Stress is often cited as damaging to the adrenal glands. GABA, or gamma-aminobutyric acid, helps decrease anxiety. Take 500 mg. of GABA in the morning and before bedtime; a third dose midday can be added if needed. Magnesium orotate also can help relieve anxiety; follow package dosage recommendations.

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