P10 ENDOCRINE SYSTEM

The endocrine system is made up of eight different glands located strategically throughout the body. Three of the most important ones for females are the ovaries, adrenals and the thyroid gland.

Control over the adrenal and ovarian systems start at the hypothalamus. Specifically, the adrenal glands are regulated through the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. Ovarian hormones are regulated through the hypothalamus-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis. Each of the end organs (adrenals, thyroid, and ovaries) produces a variety of hormones that further exert their effects on the rest of the body. In addition, each of the end organs is tied into other organ systems hormonally via a series of networks or axis.

One such intricate hormonal axis ties in the adrenals, thyroid and the ovaries. This axis is called the ovarian adrenal thyroid (OAT) axis. What happens to one organ will affect the other organs physiologically, clinically or sub-clinically. These three organs are therefore intimately co-dependent hormonally on each other for optimal function. If the adrenal glands are weak, there is often concurrent thyroid malfunction and menstrual cycle irregularity. Similarly, an underactive thyroid often makes adrenal fatigue worse. Lastly, those who suffer from ovarian hormonal imbalance, such as estrogen dominance, often exacerbate any pre-existing sub-clinical hypothyroidism.

All three organs of this axis must be in a state of optimum balance for a woman to feel good. Like a three-legged stool, all three legs must be in perfect balance for the stool to be safe to sit on. Imbalance of the OAT axis leads to a myriad of conditions that are annoying in their mildest form and incapacitating when severe.

The ovaries, the adrenal and thyroid glands of the body, form a physiologic equilateral triangle that must be in perfect balance in order for the body to function optimally. Any change in one organ system will affect the other two.

A weak ovarian system worsens adrenal function and will also weaken thyroid function, resulting in adrenal fatigue and hypothyroidism.Imbalanced adrenal function compounds hypothyroidism and worsens estrogen dominance.

Hypothyroidism exacerbates adrenal weakness and blunts ovarian hormonal responses.

When the OAT axis becomes imbalanced, multiple organs are involved and dysfunctions occur. If not attended to properly, over time the body's function is thrown into a vicious downward cycle of cascading decompensation. This is often made worse by medications and improper treatment protocols.

In addition to the major symptoms of OAT axis imbalance consisting of hypothyroidism, estrogen dominance and adrenal fatigue, other organ systems are also frequently involved, especially in advanced stages of imbalance. For example, processing and assimilating nutrients are often compromised. Absorption of nutrients from the GI track is reduced as leaky gut, irritable bowel, food sensitivity and internal dysbiosis overwhelm the normal flora. Liver function is reduced despite lab test results showing normal liver function. Good nutrients, if not processed and metabolised properly, become toxic. Toxic metabolites circulate in the body and, if not properly cleared, can lead to brain fog, joint pain, skin rashes, allergies, muscle discomfort and multiple chemical sensitivities among many other symptoms. No organ system is spared of dysfunction when this axis is not well-balanced.

Here’s a simplified scenario of what happens when a woman who has been stressed out for many years transitions into menopause:

The brain perceives stress:

• The stress hormones adrenaline and cortisol are released by the adrenals to help the body respond to the stressful event — whether it’s emotional or physical
• If this occurs daily over many years, cortisol remains continually high, resulting in symptoms of adrenal imbalance
• During perimenopause, the ovaries naturally slow down production of sex hormones. Under stressful circumstances, the adrenals moderate stress first, leaving very few resources for
• Maintaining sex hormonal balance
• Menopausal and adrenal symptoms are intensified.

 

Thyroid

The thyroid is a small butterfly shaped endocrine organ at the base of the neck. The thyroid produces hormones which are used by every cell in your body to regulate metabolism and body weight by controlling the burning of fat for energy and heat. The Thyroid hormones interact with all your other hormones including insulin, cortisol, and sex hormones like estrogen, progesterone and testosterone.

The fact that these hormones are all tied together and in constant communication explains why an unhappy thyroid is associated with so many widespread symptoms and diseases.

It is estimated that more than 20 million Americans have hypothyroidism, which is an under functioning of the thyroid.

When the thyroid hormone is inadequate the entire hormonal system is out of balance.

What are the factors that cause hypothyroidism?

• Chronic stress, which results in an increase of adrenalin and cortisol levels. Elevated cortisol has a negative impact on thyroid function. Thyroid hormone levels drop during stress
• Environmental toxins such as petrochemicals, organ chlorines, pesticides and chemical food additives affect thyroid function negatively
• Bromines are especially common endocrine disruptors. Bromines are from the same halide group as iodine and fight for the same receptors in the thyroid gland. Iodine is a building block of the thyroid hormone. Unfortunately, it loses the battle and is replaced by bromine. Bromine is found in pesticides, plastics, bakery goods, soft drinks and fire retardants
• Iodine deficiency
• Gluten and food sensitivities can cause thyroid dysfunction because they cause inflammation.

Typical symptoms of hypothyroid (low thyroid) function are:

• Weight gain
• Lethargy
• Poor quality of hair and nails
• Dry skin
• Hair loss
• Fatigue
• Constipation,
• Cold feet and hands.

Typical symptoms of Hyperthyroid (high thyroid) function are:

• Sweating
• Rapid heart rate
• Anxiety
• Tremors
• Fatigue
• Difficulty sleeping
• Sudden weight loss
• Protruding eyes.

 

Autoimmune diseases of the thyroid

Hashimoto disease is the autoimmune disease occurring with hypothyroid conditions.

Graves Disease is the autoimmune disease occurring with hyperthyroid conditions.

There are many more symptoms, which can be associated with thyroid dysfunction as the thyroid plays a part in nearly every physiological process.

Testing

Thyroid function can be tested with a simple blood serum test.

• TSH - But beware, nearly all of the ‘normal’ ranges are simply dead wrong. The ideal level for TSH is between 1 and 2.0 mIU/L (milli-international units per litre)
• Free T4 and free T3. The normal level of free T4 is between 0.9 and 1.8 ng/dl (nanograms per decilitre). T3 should be between 240 and 450 pg/dl (picograms per decilitre)
• Thyroid antibodies, including thyroid peroxidase antibodies and anti-thyroglobulin antibodies. This measure helps determine if your body is attacking your thyroid, overreacting to its own tissues (autoimmune reactions). Physicians nearly always leave this test out
• For more difficult cases, TRH can be measured (thyroid releasing hormone) using the TRH stimulation test. TRH helps identify hypothyroidism that’s caused by inadequacy of the pituitary gland.

Many of the goitrogenic foods are very healthy.  Foods such as broccoli, kale, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, spinach, strawberries, peaches, and other foods have plenty of nutrients which can benefit our health.  And when it comes to the research which talks about the thyroid-inhibiting effects of certain foods, these were performed on rats and mice. But perhaps more important than this is they involved large quantities of these foods.  Most people with hypothyroidism have Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, which is an autoimmune condition that involves destruction of the thyroid gland.  It is not yet proven that eating goitrogenic foods will worsen hypothyroid conditions. For those who remain concerned, keep in mind that cooking these foods will reduce their goitrogenic activity.

Iodine is necessary for the formation of thyroid hormones.  And so, if someone has a hypothyroid condition and is deficient in iodine, then it would make sense to correct this deficiency so that the thyroid gland will be able to produce a sufficient amount of thyroid hormone.  But how about those people with hyperthyroidism and Graves’ disease?  Well, even though this condition involves an excessive production of thyroid hormone, the cause of this is usually an overactive immune system attacking the TSH receptors.  And so in most cases it’s not caused by having too much iodine.  Plus, many years ago iodine in the form of Lugol’s solution was used by medical doctors to treat many cases of hyperthyroidism and Graves’ Disease.

In addition, many people with hyperthyroid conditions have benefited from iodine supplementation.  Besides some of the positive experiences patients have received when supplementing with iodine, many other people have reported an improvement in their health upon taking iodine supplements.  And while one can make the argument that some of these people were taking numerous other supplements at the same time, many people don’t notice a positive change in their health until they introduce iodine.

There is no question that a small percentage of people don’t do well when taking iodine.  However, the same can be said with other supplements and herbs as well.  But in most cases, those who have an iodine deficiency and take iodine with the proper precautions experience great benefits.

Seventy percent of people taking thyroid replacement medications continue to complain of symptoms. It is not unusual to have concurrent presenting symptoms of both low adrenal and low thyroid functions. Conventional medicine tends to miss this due to ignorance on adrenal fatigue. Those who were diagnosed as hypothyroid after a traumatic and stressful event such as pregnancy, accident, infection or an emotional trauma such as divorce or death of a loved one should be especially on the alert if thyroid replacement alone is not helping.

There are many ways to keep your thyroid healthy.

Recommendations:

• Zinc, selenium and the balance of cortisol regulate the conversion of T4 into the active form T3. T4 is converted in the liver into T3. Any kind of liver congestion (liver energy disruption as in Chinese medicine) can hinder the perfect conversion from T4 into T3
• Iodine 125mcg - ??(depending on practitioner, it can be really high)
• Tyrosine (the thyroid hormone is produced with iodine and tyrosine)
• Zinc
• Selenium
• Liver supporting herbs(milk thistle, dandelion, globe artichoke, schizandra, green tea)
• Thyroid supporting herbs (Eleuthero, Echinacea, Bugleweed, Bladderwrack, Ashwagandha)
• Desiccated thyroid is powdered thyroid from pigs (mixed from several pigs, not one), and it meets the stringent guidelines of the US Pharmacopeia. It comes under the brand names Armour, Naturethroid, Acella’s NP Thyroid, Erfa, Thyroid-S....
• Unlike T4-only meds (Synthroid, Levoxyl, generic levothyroxine, Eltroxin, Oroxine, Levothyroid, Levaxin or Euthyrox, etc.)desiccated thyroid is natural and gives you exactly what your own thyroid would be giving you: T4, T3, T2, T1 and calcitonin.
• Do not take natural thyroid medication with estrogen, calcium or iron. Estrogen, calcium and iron bind some of the thyroid hormones and make them unusable!

 

Adrenal Glands

The adrenal glands are tiny walnut size organs sitting on top of your kidneys. Adrenal glands manufacture and secrete steroid hormones such as cortisol, estrogen and testosterone, which are essential for life.

The main purpose of the adrenal glands is to enable the body to deal with stress. They determine the energy of the body response to every change in the internal and external environment. Whether they signal attack, retreat or surrender, every cell responds accordingly. The adrenal glands are the only way our body is able to mobilise its resources to escape or fight the dangers of stress and therefore, survive. It is their job to keep the body’s reaction to stress in balance, so that they are protective and not harmful.

Stress is experienced by everyone as part of our daily lives. A stressor can be almost any disturbance - heat and cold, environmental toxins, toxins produced by microorganism, physical trauma, a strong emotional reaction. Fortunately, control mechanisms in the body are geared towards counteracting the everyday stresses. Most of the stress response is so mild it goes entirely unnoticed. However, if stress is extreme, unusual, or long lasting, these control mechanisms can be overwhelming  and quite harmful.

The stress response is actually part of a larger response known as the ‘general adaption syndrome’. The general adaption syndrome is broken down into three phases; alarm, resistance and exhaustion. These phases are largely regulated and controlled by the adrenal glands and our nervous system.

The initial alarm reaction is the ‘fight and flight’ response. This reaction is triggered by reactions in the brain which ultimately cause the pituitary gland to release a hormone called adrenocorticotropic hormone ( ACTH), which causes the adrenals to secrete adrenalin and other stress related hormones like cortisol.

The fight and flight reaction is designed by the body to mobilise the body’s resources for immediate physical activity. The heart rate goes up, blood and oxygen supply to the heart and muscles are increased, breathing increases, sweat production increases, digestive secretion is reduced, and blood sugar levels are increased.

The alarm phase is usually short-lived and the next phase of the resistance reaction allows the body to continue fighting a stressor after the effect of the fight and flight response have worn off.

Cortisol and other corticosteroids secreted by the adrenal cortex are largely responsible for the resistance reaction. These hormones provide the conversion from protein to energy to keep up the energy stores.

The reaction of the adrenal are quite important to fight off infections or emotional crises, however, prolonging the resistance reaction or continued stress increase the risk of significant disease and results in the final stage of the general adaption syndrome: exhaustion.

The protective activity of anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant adrenal hormones, like cortisol, help minimise negative and allergic reactions (such as swelling and inflammation) to alcohol, drugs, foods, environmental allergens, cancer, infection, and autoimmune disorders. These hormones closely modulate the utilisation of carbohydrates and fats, the conversion of fats and proteins into energy, the distribution of stored fat (especially around your waist and at the sides of your face), normal blood sugar regulation and proper cardiovascular and gastrointestinal function. After mid-life (menopause in women), the adrenal glands gradually become the major source of the sex hormones circulating throughout the body in both men and women. These hormones themselves have a whole host of physical, emotional and psychological effects, from the level of your sex drive to the tendency to gain weight. Every athlete knows that steroids (adrenal hormones) affect muscular strength and stamina.

Even the propensity to develop certain kinds of diseases and the ability to respond to chronic illness is influenced significantly by the adrenal glands.

The more chronic the illness, the more critical the adrenal response becomes. We cannot live without our adrenal hormones and, as you can see from this brief overview, how well we live depends a great deal on how well our adrenal glands function.

Adrenal fatigue is a state of sub-optimal health applied to a collection of non-specific symptoms such as weakness and low energy that is hard to explain. Most forms of adrenal fatigue are mild with full recovery after rest, and therefore they will go undetected.

If the condition is left to natural progression and the stressors continue to persist, adrenal fatigue may worsen.

 

Stressors that can lead to adrenal fatigue include:

• Anger
• Chronic fatigue
• Chronic illness
• Chronic infection
• Chronic pain
• Depression
• Excessive exercise
• Fear and guilt
• Gluten intolerance
• Low blood sugar
• Mal-absorption
• Mal-digestion
• Toxic exposure
• Severe or chronic stress
• Surgery
• Sleep deprivation
• Excessive exercise
• Excessive sugar in diet
• Excessive caffeine intake from coffee and tea
• Chronically infected root canal.

 

Symptoms of adrenal fatigue are wide and varied, they include:

• Tendency to gain weight and unable to lose it, especially around the waist
• High frequency of getting the flu and other respiratory diseases and these symptoms tend to last longer than usual
• Tendency to tremble when under pressure
• Reduced sex drive
• Lightheaded when rising from a horizontal position
• Unable to remember things
• Lack of energy in the mornings and in the afternoon between 3 and 5 pm
• Feel better suddenly for a brief period after a meal
• Often feel tired from 9 - 10 pm, but resist going to bed
• Need coffee or stimulants to get going in the morning
• Cravings for salty, fatty, and high protein food such as meat and cheese
• Increased symptoms of PMS for women; periods are heavy and then stop, or are almost stopped on the 4th day, only to start flow again on the 5th or 6th day
• Pain in the upper back or neck with no apparent reason
• Feels better when stress is relieved, such as on a vacation
• Difficulties getting up in the morning.

 

Other signs and symptoms include:

• Mild depression
• Food and or inhalant allergies
• Lethargy and lack of energy
• Increased effort to perform daily tasks
• Decreased ability to handle stress
• Dry and thin skin
• Hypoglycemia
• Low body temperature
• Nervousness
• Heart Palpitation
• Unexplained hair loss
• Alternating constipation and diarrhea
• Dyspepsia.

Symptoms reflect the body's only way of alerting to the disarray within. For example, salt craving and low blood pressure can be attributable to hormone aldosterone dysregulation. Heart palpitations can be due to sympathetic nervous system overtone. Muscle and joint pain are often due to the catabolic state of the body. Insomnia may be due to metabolic imbalances, and PMS is likely to be due to excessive estrogen. These symptoms reflect the body's strategy of returning to a lower physiological state of function. Its the body's way of returning to simplicity in a complex world. Just because the symptoms are hard to explain it does not mean that they are not real.

In addition to the symptoms, many recognised conditions are related to adrenal fatigue, including:

IBS, depression, metabolic syndrome, PCOS, POTS, diabetes, hypotension, estrogen dominance, obesity, hypothyroidism, and auto-immune diseases.

Current understanding points to four stages of adrenal fatigue.

Stage 1: is called ‘alarm reaction’.

Stage 2: is called ‘resistance response’.

In these two stages, symptoms are quite mild and therefore often escape detection. In fact, most people in stage 1 are asymptomatic. In these two stages, rest, dietary and lifestyle changes can be of great help towards full recovery.

Stage 3: is called ‘adrenal exhaustion’.

Stage 3 is the wakeup call for most people as the symptoms become severe and the condition becomes debilitating. There are three phases within stage 3, each with different characteristics and hallmarks. Phase A is called ‘chronic single system dysfunction’. In this phase, one or more internal systems has weakened to such an extent that symptoms becomes pathological and clinically evident. Phase B is called ‘multiple endocrine axis imbalance’. In this phase, multiple hormonal regulating organs are concurrently involved. Phase C is called ‘disequilibrium’. This is where the most functional decline occurs. Internal emergency repair systems of the body are activated in order to maintain homeostasis. Symptoms of this phase are serious and can include heart palpitations, chest pain, postural hypotension, severe anxiety, severe insomnia (feeling wired and tired), hypothyroid despite medication, and frequent adrenal crashes followed by slow recovery. The risk of adrenal failure increases as the adrenal fatigue condition advances. Phase 3 is called near failure. Most are typically bed-ridden. The body is at the lowest physiological state in order to conserve energy and survive.

Stage 4: is called 'adrenal failure' or Addison's disease.

Addison disease is diagnosed when the adrenal can't produce sufficient hormones (corticosteroids) anymore.

Many of the convoluted and confusing symptoms of adrenal fatigue are hormone related, especially for females. In particular, the ovarian, adrenal and thyroid (OAT) hormonal axis is usually involved. Imbalance of the OAT axis is a hallmark of stage 3B adrenal fatigue. It can lead to symptoms such as PMS, low body temperature, endometriosis, PCOS, cystic breast, menstrual irregularities, fibroids suggestive of ovarian dysfunction and estrogen dominance; dry skin, weight gain, fatigue, low energy, blunted response to thyroid medications suggestive of secondary hypothyroidism; salt craving, frequent infection, hypoglycemia, insomnia, anxiety and adrenaline rushes suggestive of sympathetic overtone common in late stage adrenal exhaustion.

All steroidal hormones are metabolised to a great degree by the liver. The more advanced the adrenal fatigue, the more compromised the liver function in general.

When our body is stressed, our cortisol level rises in an environment where the negative feedback system is dampened. While this is happening, our DHEA level continues to drop. The result is a high cortisol to DHEA ratio and:

• Reduced insulin sensitivity, reduced glucose utilisation and increased blood sugar, which leads to diabetes
• Reduced secretory IgA (the main cellular defence factor), natural killer (NK) cell and T-lymphocyte activity, which lead to increased chances of getting infections such as herpes, yeast overgrowth and viral infections
• An increased loss in bone mass as calcium absorption is blocked. The demineralisation of bone occurs leading to osteoporosis
• Increased fat accumulation around the waist and protein breakdown, thus leading to muscle wasting, an inability to reduce weight
• An increase in water and salt retention leading to high blood pressure at first, with low blood pressure as the condition worsens
• Estrogen dominance, leading to PMS, uterine fibroids,and breast cancer.

Testing:

The traditional blood test is not helpful when it comes to adrenal fatigue. Saliva hormone testing is the best method to monitor steroid hormones. But be careful, a single snapshot of one's hormonal function at one particular point in time seldom tells the whole story and in fact may be misleading. Widespread misinterpretation of saliva cortisol test results is common due to inconsistent clinical correlation. Saliva tests, if necessary, are most effective when administered serially for proper interpretation.

Salivary cortisol levels generally show a sharp rise upon awakening and during the first hour after waking up. Generally, an initially overactive acute stress response results in elevated cortisol levels, while more chronic stress, insomnia, or depression may blunt this effect.

Another very important test used in combination with salivary cortisol  level testing is measuring DHEA levels. The classic pattern associated with chronic stress is elevated cortisol combined with reduced DHEA, indicating a shift toward stress hormone production and away from sex hormone production. Adrenal exhaustion is characterised by low cortisol and low DHEA.

Three tests which everyone at home can check:

1. Ragland's sign (blood pressure test, equipment required: home blood pressure kit). Take your blood pressure while sitting down. Then, stand up and immediately take your blood pressure again. Your systolic (first) number should have raised 8 to 10 mm. If it dropped, you probably have adrenal fatigue.
2. Pupil dilation exam (equipment required: flashlight and a mirror). Look into the mirror and shine the flashlight into the pupil of one eye. It should contract. If after 30 seconds, the eye dilates or the dilation fluctuates between smaller and larger, you most likely have adrenal fatigue.
3. Pain when pressing on adrenal glands(located over kidneys)

Recommendations:

Good exercise and diet can help adrenal recovery, but it has to be accomplished correctly. Overly aggressive exercise can trigger adrenal crashes. Improper exercise can delay adrenal recovery by draining the body of the energy needed for healing. Exercise intensity, frequency, and focus should match the energy state of the body at all times.
Diet is an important component of adrenal recovery. Providing the proper dietary carbohydrate, protein and fat ratio fitting for the metabolic and body type is crucial. Electrolyte balance needs to be monitored closely for those with advanced adrenal fatigue due to sodium and blood pressure imbalances. Improper diet can delay and may worsen adrenal fatigue.
General diet recommendation: low sugar and no artificial sweeteners, no refined carbohydrates, no gluten grains (wheat, rye, barley, spelt, couscous, kamut, oat), no dairy, all refined oils, processed foods, GMO foods

• Eating regular meals
• Vitamin C 2000-5000mg per day
• Magnesium (200-800 mg)
• Essential fatty acids;cod liver oil
• Glutathione intravenously or the precursors alpha lipoic acid and carnitine
• 900 to 1,500 mg of vitamin B5 (panthothenic acid) as most hormone production in the adrenal gland needs the co-enzyme A / pantethine, a by-product of vitamin B5, to be produced
• 400-800 I.U. of vitamin E mixed tocopherols is another important nutrient. It is involved in at least six different enzymatic reactions in the adrenal cascade. Take 400 to 800 I.U. of vitamin E daily
• 1000 to 5000 I.U of vitamin Dis a good nutrient to support hormonal synthesis
• GABA reduces stress hormone transmitters
• Zinc (30mg)
• Vanadium
• Selenium (100-200 mcg)
• Taurine helps insulin sensitivity
• Reduction of electro-pollution from cell phones, wireless technologies and EMF’s
• Acupuncture
• Herbs can be used to modulate adrenal secretion (i.e. a ‘tonic’ approach) or to increase the body's ability to respond to stress (an ‘adaptogenic’ approach)
• Ashwagandha (withania somnifera) root comes from India's Ayurvedic medicinal tradition. It is particularly useful for stress-induced sleeping problems. Interestingly, recent East Indian trials showed that Ashwagandha improves both DHEAs and testosterone levels. (Ahmad MK, et al. Fertil Steril 2010. 94(3):989-996; Mahdi AA, et al. eCam. 2009.8; Auddy B, et al. J Am Nutraceutical Assoc. 2008.11(1):50-56)
• Korean ginseng (Panax ginseng): The main root (not the lateral roots or root hairs) of this plant is traditionally used in Western herbal medicine to remedy physical or mental exhaustion, lowered immunity and to facilitate adaptation to stress. In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) it is considered a key herb for reinforcing vital energy and longevity (Mills S, Bone K. Principles and Practice of Phytotheraphy.2000: 418-30)
• Eleuthero (Eleutherococcus senticosus) is an adaptogen herb used to support cognition, alertness, immune function, and physical stress. The most recent research on adaptogens views them as stress mimetics and focuses on their ability to increase levels of stress protective heat shock proteins. In other words, adaptogens act like mild stressors to the body and the body's protective response is what accounts for the therapeutic benefits (Panossian A, Wikman G. Curr Clin Pharmacol. 2009.Sep;4(3): 198-219)
• Rhodiola (Rhodiola rosea) is another adaptogenic herb with a long history of traditional use. It also has a number of positive human trials in the areas of stress and fatigue management, enhancement of mental performance and treatment of mild depression. Rhodiola exerts these beneficial effects by regulating key mediators of the stress response including cortisol, nitric oxide, molecular chaperones (HSP70) and the stress activated protein kinases
• The anti-depressive effect is in part associated with its effect on monoamine oxidase A and up-regulation of HSP70. (Panossian A, Wikman G, Sarris J. Phytomedicine. 2010: 481–493). Rhodiola has been used successfully to increase stamina, prevent fatigue, improve mental function, reduce anxiety and ameliorate symptoms of mild depression
• Rehmannia (Rehmannia glutinosa)is an herb used extensively in Chinese medicine. It is similar to licorice and can be used as both a tonic and as specific support for the adrenal glands. It is helpful for people suffering general debility, adrenal depletion, and poor immune system function, specifically in the context of autoimmune disease
• Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus) also comes to the West through its long use in Chinese medicine. It is typically used in combination with other herbs, especially Rehmannia and Eleuthero. Astragalus as both a tonic and an adrenal support herb. Its key bioactive components are polysaccharide fractions, isoflavonoids, saponins, triterpenoids and gaba-aminobutryic acid. These substances can affect growth hormone levels, blood glucose, general inflammation, blood pressure, blood flow and water balance in the body (Mills S, Bone K. Principles and Practice of Phytotheraphy. 2000: 273-77)
• Minimising stress
• Relaxation methods like breathing, meditation, yoga
• Using the TGI for relaxation
• Doing something fun everyday
• Avoiding coffee or caffeinated beverages
• Avoiding TV and computers in the evening hours.

It is important to understand that the hormonal and physiological processes underlying Adrenal fatigue are cyclic and inter-connected: increased cortisol leads to increased adrenaline, which over time leads to dysregulation of glucose metabolism. This domino effect of hormone dysregulation typically results in obesity and thyroid dysfunction via enhanced production of even more cortisol.

Each hormone produced acts as part of an overall orchestra of hormones where proper balance is essential for optimal adrenal function. Each hormone has an important role to play in the overall scheme of things inside the body.

The following table outlines the key differences in the signs and symptoms between adrenal fatigue and hypothyroidism. by Dr. Lam - See more at: http://www.drlam.com/blog/adrenal-fatigue-versus-hypothyroidism-part-1/3643/#sthash.mBsdGZl6.dpuf

 

 

Sex Hormones

Estrogen and Progesterone

Throughout life, women maintain a healthy body through appropriate ratios of estrogens, progesterone and testosterone. A complex set of feedback loops determine how much or how little of each hormone is being made at any one time. This ongoing communication takes place between the brain, the ovaries and the adrenal glands acting in concert with all the other systems in our body.

Fluctuations in estrogen can have dramatic effects on how we feel, think and function. Compared to other hormones, estrogen is very tightly regulated by the body and is more powerful in smaller amounts than other steroid hormones. Estrogen has very important work to do in our body. It causes specific cells to divide and enlarge, controls reproductive cycles and pregnancy, prepares the breast for lactation, and influences the skin, the bones, the cardiovascular system, the immune system and even the brain. Even tiny changes in estrogen levels can cause symptoms.

Hormones are continually changing from one minute to the next. Diet and lifestyle have a tremendous effect upon the entire neuroendocrine (brain- hormone) system and directly impact estrogen and overall hormonal balance.

Excess estrogen wreaks havoc in your body. It can cause breast, uterine and ovarian cancer.

Common symptoms of hormonal imbalance

• Irritability and mood swings
• Worsening PMS
• Headaches
• Sleep problems
• Irregular periods
• Heavy bleeding
• Problems with uterine fibroids
• Hot flushes and night sweats
• Breast tenderness, cysts, or nipple discharge
• Decreased libido
• Joint pain or stiffness
• Vaginal dryness
• Dry eyes
• Skin changes
• Heart palpitations
• Urinary incontinence.

Estrogen dominance

Some of the main causes of failure to clear estrogen are toxins in the environment from industry, automobiles, contaminated soil, foods and water, other pesticide exposure, and poor diet and lifestyle choices, which include carcinogens and free radical producers, rancid oils, saturated fats, nicotine, alcohol, low fibre and lack of cruciferous vegetables.

Metal toxicity comes from the earth, sea and from metallic dental amalgams or common silver fillings. Cimetidine or Tagamet, a commonly used drug for heartburn or acid indigestion, is known to cause disruption in the clearance pathway. Obesity plays a role in storing estrogen in fatty tissues and breasts are composed largely of fat. Hypothyroidism is another cause of faulty estrogen clearance, and is more widespread than the medical industry would concede. A normal cholesterol level, above 170, is required for the healthy production of hormones. Without healthy cholesterol, the thyroid gland cannot function properly and the other cascade of hormones is not well produced.

The biochemical markers that are used to check the body's ability to clear estrogen out of the tissues are metabolites of estrone. One of these is a protective metabolite 2-Hydroxyestrone (2-OH E1), and 16-alpha-Hydroxyestrone (16-aOH E1) is the destructive metabolite. These metabolites can be measured in urine specimens to check the relative risk of developing estrogen dependent cancers.

Recommendations:

• DIM, Diindolylmethane, helps clear estrogen from tissues by increasing the beneficial estrone metabolite and has demonstrated apoptosis, or cancer cell death. DIM is primarily derived from cruciferous vegetables: broccoli, cauliflower, brussel sprouts and cabbage. These vegetables are known to contain indoles, the anti-carcinogenic properties which inhibit cancer growth, protect tissues and prevent cancer according to the same scientific literature. One would need to ingest about 30 pounds of these vegetables per day for maximum effect. Fortunately, it has been manufactured into supplemental form.

The recommended dose is 100-200 mg per day, taken once in the evening.

DIM formulated with phosphatidylcholine has a better bioavailibitity. Because it contains soy, it should not be taken in the morning if one is taking thyroid at that time.

DIM shifts estrogen metabolism to the 2-hydroxy pathway, resulting in healthier estrogen metabolites and restored hormonal balance. DIM acts like a traffic cop, guiding used estrogen down the 2-hydroxy pathway.

Two other crucial components are digestive and liver health. Exposure to chemicals in our food, water and air, along with a diet high in saturated fats and sugar can cause interference with digestive health and fat metabolism.

• Calcium D-glucarate'sdetoxifying and immune support properties are attributed to its ability to eliminate toxins from our liver and intestines
• Estrogen blocks vitamin B6 therefore, in patients with estrogen dominance, supplementation of B6 is necessary, 150 mg is a good dose for this purpose
• Vitamin B3 is the cofactor for all chemical pathway reactions in the conversions of cholesterol to progesterone, cortisol and pathway to estrogen. Therefore, the supplementation of the vitamin B 3 can help the pathways flow smoothly
• Iodinedirectly competes with estrogen. The supplementation of iodine (Lugol’s solution) can reduce estrogen levels
• Hypothyroidism is commonly associated with estrogen dominance and the supplementation of iodine could be extremely effective
• Copper increases estrogen therefore the avoidance of copper containing foods and copper supplementation is important. Copper toxicity is quite common. The easiest way to reduce copper levels in the body is a high dose of zinc (up to 100mg), which directly competes with copper
• Zinc will also help to regulate testosterone production, something that may be extremely beneficial in the case of estrogen dominance
• Sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) is higher in plant based food sources. The use of a mainly plant based vegetarian diet may be advisable for someone that is suffering estrogen dominance. If animal products are consumed then they have to be from an organic source, free of hormones and toxins
• Vitamin B6, 150 mg, and tyrosine, 400-6000mg, make up progesterone, adequate levels in the body are necessary
• Regular exercise, too, is important for estrogen clearance
• Increasing progesterone levels naturally with bioidentical progesterone cream. Be aware when buying natural progesterone cream that the cream base is free of nasty chemicals.
• Sulforaphane binds effectively  the Cytochrome 450, CY1B1 which is responsible for the activation of pro-carcinogens. Sulphorane also activates Phase 2 detoxification in the liver.
• Methionine belongs to a group of compounds called lipotropics which help the liver to process fat in the body as well as converting the stronger and carcinogenic estradiol (E2) into estriol (E3) which is the “good” estrogen as compared to estradiol.

For example, Progesta Plus is a natural progesterone cream free of chemicals and synthetics like ethoxylated wetting agents, PEG 8 stearate, PEG 100 stearate, polyethylene glycol, polysorbate 60, or polysorbate 80, which may be contaminated with 1,4-dioxane, a known carcinogen and the estrogen mimicking preservatives known as parabens.

Use the cream twice daily from day 15-25 of the menstrual cycle. Make sure that the creme is applied on different rotating body parts. (inner arms, inner thighs, breasts, etc.)

• Elimination of hormone-laden meats, non-organic vegetables, fruits, staples
• Reduction of sugar and high carbohydrate foods
• Decrease of alcohol, transfatty acids, margarine and fried foods
• Increase of fibrewith seeds and nuts
• Drinking of fresh filtered water
• Support your liver with nutrients and herbslike milk thistle seeds, artichoke, and dandelion. Traditional Chinese medicine sees the stagnation of liver energy as a precancerous condition as the liver circulates the body’s energy freely in all directions
• The use of Maca can be beneficial as it is a hormone balancing Superfood.
• Stress reduction through meditation, TGI, art, etc., is very important (adrenals are always part of the whole picture)
• Avoidance of xenoestrogens(heavy metals, insecticides, herbicides, fungicides, preservatives).

It is very important to see the interconnections of all bodily functions with our hormones. Nutritional deficiencies, gut health, liver problems, toxic load all have an influence on how our hormones can play.

Another factor is the intake of the oral contraceptive pill (OCP). Teenagers from the age of 13 already take the OCP because of acne and menstrual irregularities. This not only affects the natural hormonal balance but also has a powerful effect on the way the body utilises important nutrients.

• Zinc is radically affected by hormones. Zinc deficiency causes ovulation and sex hormone production to be impaired and affects sexual desire and fertility. Taking extra hormones with the OCP can increase these problems. It is essential to look at the zinc level of longterm contraceptive users. (RBC zinc test)
• Vitamin B12, vitamin E, and vitamin C are lowered when taking the OCP’s (up to 30%)
• OCP’s lower levels of zinc, magnesium and selenium
• The absorption of copper is increased, disrupting the zinc/copper balance
• Higher levels of vitamin K may lead to blood clot formation
• Reduction of the amino acid tyrosine,which is needed for a healthy functioning of the thyroid gland.

Women who were/are taking the OCP need to be checked for all these essential nutrients.

 

Endocrine disrupters

Endocrine disruptors are chemicals or manmade toxins which, when absorbed, have been shown to mimic the action of hormones. They can turn on, turn off or change normal signals. They can alter normal hormone levels, trigger excessive action or completely block a natural response. Any other bodily function controlled by hormones can also be affected.

Hormone disrupting compounds are:

• Pesticides
• Plastics
• Phthalates
• Pharmaceuticals
• Persistent organic pollutants
• Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs)
• Dioxins
• PVCs
• Detergents
• Heavy metals found in cleaners
• Dyes
• Cosmetics
• Personal care products
• Fabrics
• Building materials
• Outgassing mattresses
• Processed food
• Teflon coating
• Disinfectant bleaches

The list is practically endless. They are diffused throughout the atmosphere by the burning of industrial waste and leach into our groundwater from landfills and agricultural runoffs.

These compounds interfere with the essential inner workings of our cells. Measuring how dangerous they are has been difficult; not only because they interact in complex ways and at tiny concentrations, but also because literally every species has had some exposure.

Your endocrine system is one of the most sensitive communication networks - it influences all aspects of your health and wellbeing, including your reproductive potential, cognitive function, thyroid and metabolism, digestion and hormonal balance. How an individual reacts to hormonally active chemicals varies, but one thing is certain: never before have there been so many diverse, man-made and unregulated synthetics at work in our bodies.

In addition to having harmful effects on the endocrine system, xenoestrogens can also cause harm to the immune system.  There is even some evidence that such chemicals can be involved in the pathogenesis of an autoimmune condition.  Most people with Graves’ disease and Hashimoto’s thyroiditis have a genetic predisposition for these conditions, but most of the time they are triggered by environmental factors.  And while it might be far-fetched to consider that someone can develop these conditions due to drinking a lot of water from plastic bottles or using products which have xenoestrogens, one can’t completely dismiss the possibility.

Our body has an incredible detoxification system, designed to eliminate our bodies of many toxic substances. So when we are exposed to very high levels of toxic materials, the body is simply overwhelmed.

 

Further reading recommended: 

Article: Does endometriosis control your life. https://www.trulyheal.com/does-endometriosis-control-your-life/

Article: Vagus Nerve: 7 easy ways to access its power. https://www.trulyheal.com/vagus-nerve-7-easy-ways-to-access-its-powers/

Further reading but not required:

Book: Hormone Hersey, what women must know about their hormones. By Dr. Sherrill Sellman

The Wisdom of Menopause by Dr. Christiane Northrup

Central Nervous System Disruptions and Adrenal Fatigue by Dr. Lam