The adrenal glands are best-known for secreting hormones that help the body cope with stress. Adrenaline spurs the body to act during stressful situations. Problems occur, however, when the body is repeatedly exposed to stress. The levels of cortisol – another hormone produced by the adrenal glands – remain consistently high, and this is not something the body is used to. High cortisol levels cause a range of symptoms collectively known as adrenal fatigue.
Symptoms that define adrenal fatigue
Adrenal fatigue has become even more common in modern life, with its constantly increasing pace and shifting social demands. Here are some of the symptoms that define it:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Fatigue
- Difficulty sleeping
- Nervousness
- Digestive problems
Having any of these symptoms can alter a person's life; but with growing acceptance and understanding of adrenal fatigue comes potential relief.
Anti-stress fats to ease adrenal fatigue
Society's understanding of fat has long been limited to the impression that it is bad for the body. While it is true that "bad" fats, such as trans fats and saturated fats, can increase the risk of certain diseases, "good" fats, such as unsaturated fats and omega-3 fatty acids, can boost a person's physical and mental well-being.
Severe stress can make you want to eat even when you are not hungry. Fortunately, there are foods rich in beneficial fats that can help you address adrenal fatigue and cope with chronic stress. Below are the three best stress-fighting foods that you can add to your diet.
Grass-fed butter and ghee
Grass-fed butter is sourced from cows that were fed mostly grass rather than grain. Butter from grass-fed cows is said to contain more omega-3 fatty acids. You may also try ghee if you are sensitive to dairy. Ghee is made when regular butter is melted and the liquid fats and milk solids are separated. Ghee has less lactose than butter because the milk solids have been removed during preparation. Ghee is popular in South Asian cuisine and is known for its many health benefits.
Coconut oil
Coconut has long been known for its versatility and its wide range of health benefits. Three-and-a-half tablespoons of coconut oil should be enough for an adult to enjoy its health benefits. This amount can be added to a smoothie, or even to your morning coffee.
Avocado and avocado oil
Avocado is another healthy choice that has been gaining popularity recently. Not only are avocados rich in nutrients, they also contain oleic acid, a monounsaturated fatty acid that can reduce inflammation and lower blood pressure. Avocado can be served on toast, mixed with salads, or used in place of other cooking oils.
As the modern world has now progressed to a point where simply living could strain the body beyond its capacity to cope, people can turn back to natural remedies to ease their stress and live healthier, happier lives.
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