Zinc & Adrenal Fatigue

Zinc's an essential mineral found in the body's cells that's critical for calming the nervous system, according to the Vitamin & Nutrition Center. Without sufficient zinc, the body becomes less able to metabolize food properly to energize the adrenal glands, which, some believe, causes adrenal fatigue.

Defined

• Adrenal fatigue, also referred to as chronic fatigue syndrome, is a tremendous physical fatigue that can occur with either mental or physical exertion, and is not helped with rest. Symptoms include loss of memory or concentration, extreme fatigue, headaches and unexplained muscle pain.

Zinc Benefits

• Experts at Vitamins-Nutrition clarify that zinc helps sustain a healthy immune system, is necessary to synthesize DNA and aids with wound healing. However, there are no clear, scientific links between zinc supplements and increased adrenal function.

Theories/Speculation

• Healthcare providers disagree on the possible link between adrenal fatigue and stress, or the "fight-or-flight" syndrome that may contribute to the symptoms of adrenal fatigue, indicates the experts at Healthy Back Institute. They do agree that the adrenals affect the body's energy levels.