Alcohol & Adrenal Fatigue

Many professionals believe that adrenal fatigue and hypoglycemia may go hand-in-hand with alcohol abuse and substance abuse. Adrenal fatigue can increase the cravings that many people have for the abused substance.

Identification

• Adrenal fatigue is a syndrome in which the adrenal glands are functioning, but not at an optimal level. This condition can appear after stressful situations, and repeated infections. Adrenal fatigue can make everyday activities difficult, and people that suffer from this condition may use coffee and cola for energy to make it through their day.

Symptoms

• Some of the symptoms of adrenal fatigue may be reduced sex drive, menstrual changes, blood sugar instabilities, low energy, compromised cardiovascular function, disturbed sleep patterns and mood swings.

Alcohol

• Many times when the body is craving carbohydrates, alcohol or other stimulants, it is due to the body's need for quick energy. However, with the overuse of these substances, the adrenal glands become fatigued.

Theories/Speculation

• Alcohol is a carbohydrate that is more refined than white sugar. This means that it produces a quick burst of energy. However, after consuming alcohol, the body's blood sugar goes up and down. Alcohol may be a temporary compensation for the body's desperate need for energy, but alcohol places an added demand on the adrenal system resulting in adrenal fatigue.

Considerations

• Alcohol and stimulants can mask the symptoms of adrenal fatigue. Doctors do not recommend those that suffer from adrenal fatigue to consume any alcoholic beverages. Doing so may exacerbate the adrenal symptoms. Doctors believe that adrenal fatigue may have an important bearing on alcohol addiction.