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Is There a Connection Between the Adrenal Gland & Weight Loss?

The adrenal glands are a pair of hormone-producing structures that sit on top of each kidney. Insufficient hormone output by the adrenals can trigger a number of symptoms that include weight loss.

  1. Metabolism Regulation

    • Normally, the adrenal glands supply the body with two key hormones---cortisol and aldosterone---that help regulate basic processes including the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats and proteins, according to the National Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases Information Service (NEMDIS).

    Adrenal Insufficiency

    • When the adrenal glands do not produce adequate levels of cortisol, the body develops a condition called primary adrenal insufficiency (Addison's disease), reports NEMDIS. Secondary adrenal insufficiency can develop when the pituitary gland does not properly signal the adrenals to produce cortisol.

    Weight Loss

    • Most individuals who develop Addison's disease lose weight, according to the Merck Manuals Online Medical Library. This is due, in part, to a loss of appetite.

    Additional Symptoms

    • NEMDIS cites additional potential symptoms of adrenal insufficiency that include muscle weakness, chronic fatigue, headaches, sweating, vomiting, nausea, diarrhea and low blood pressure.

    Considerations

    • Use of synthetic substitutes for the adrenal gland hormones cortisone and hydrocortisone can trigger weight gain in the face, back of the neck or abdomen, according to the Mayo Clinic.

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