Addison’s disease (adrenal gland disorder)

If the adrenal cortex produces insufficient amounts of glucocorticoids and mineralocorticoids the result is called Addison’s disease.

Stress on the body such as injury, infection or illness can trigger adrenal issues where the adrenal glands make two or three times the usual amount of cortisol in response to physical stress. But with adrenal insufficiency, the adrenal glands don’t make enough cortisol to meet this need.

Symptoms of Addison’s disease

• Abdominal pain
• Diarrhoea
• Electrolyte imbalance
• Excess pigmentation of the skin (hyperpigmentation, bronzing,), patches of dark skin especially around scars and skin creases and on the gums.
• Fatigue, steadily worsening (most common symptom)
• Low blood pressure
• Muscular weakness
• Vomiting
• Weight loss

Addison’s disease can often be controlled with hormone replacement therapy.

Natural remedies for Addison’s disease

Drink water, tea of any type, fruit juice, coconut water and milk.

Many people with adrenal fatigue have highly acidic bodies. To help neutralize this and become more alkaline, drink a glass of warm water with a slice of lemon in it daily.  Adding a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar to this drink can also help.

Blueberries, strawberries and other berries are rich in antioxidants that protect the body from oxidative stress. Antioxidants can support adrenal health by reducing inflammation and supporting the immune function.

Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids such as oily fish and hemp seeds can help to treat Addison’s disease.

Adaptogenic herbs like holy basil, also known as tulsi, and turmeric can help when treating Addison’s disease.

In Chinese medicine, liquorice root and rehmannia is used as it is said to support the cells of the adrenal cortex and pituitary during times of prolonged stress. Recommended doses for adrenal support are about 2-4 g per day of liquorice root and around 2-4 g per day for rehmannia. However, side effects such as nausea, gas, diarrhoea, headache, heart palpitations, dizziness, vertigo, allergies, and fatigue have been reported. Rehmannia may also be unsafe for people who have liver disease or pre-existing digestive or immune issues.

The B complex of vitamins is important to protect the adrenal glands especially vitamin B12. Limiting meat and fish can cause a deficiency in vitamin B12. Get a blood test done to check levels then consume foods rich in vitamin B12.

Highest sources of vitamin B12 in micrograms per 100 grams

NOTE: One μg is one microgram. The daily recommended amount for an averagely active adult is 2.4 μg daily.

WARNING:   Supplements of vitamin B12  are not advised, unless blood tests show a deficiency, as excessive consumption of vitamin B12 can cause arthritis, anxiety, back pain, coronary artery spasms with chest pains, diarrhoea, headaches, indigestion, lack of coordination, nausea and vomiting, nervousness, numbness or pain down the right arm, swelling and/or tingling or numbness on the right side of the face .

The right balance of minerals is essential for healthy adrenal glands.

If taking corticosteroids, consuming foods rich in calcium and vitamin D3, vitamin K2 and magnesium can help to protect bone health and improve adrenal health.

What to avoid or limit

• Avoid alcohol.
• Avoid foods high in sugar and saturated fat and limit or avoid processed meats, refined grains, soft drinks and fried foods.
• Limit foods rich in potassium such as oranges, bananas. and salt substitutes.
• Avoid caffeine rich drinks and salt substitutes.
• Avoid high impact exercises.

Associated subjects

• Acid and alkaline balance
• Gland disorders
• Injury, surgery and infection

See also

• A-Z of Nutrients
• A-Z of Minerals
• A-Z of Medicinal Herbs & Spices
• A-Z of Natural Foods and Remedies
• A-Z of Hazards to Health