Adrenal Fatigue in Addicts

There are many illnesses and chronic conditions that go hand in hand with addiction to alcohol and drugs. Many of these are often overlooked. A comprehensive treatment program that includes a holistic approach will look at all of the body’s systems and the ways that they have been affected by the abuse. Then it will help the addict begin a recovery that includes restored health and a new way of living.

Many people begin to suffer from adrenal fatigue after experiencing large amounts of stress when cortisol is released. The adrenals attempt to compensate for the production of cortisol. If it is constantly being released, then the adrenals are constantly at work. Stress also makes addicts drink and use drugs more.

One of these often overlooked conditions is adrenal fatigue. Sometimes this is an issue before the person begins to abuse substances. It results in hypoglycemia. This often causes people to eat highly sugared foods and drink sugar laden drinks, including alcohol. They may also turn to drugs in order to feel better. The conditions are then worsened, and a vicious cycle is developed that causes them to abuse the substances even more in an attempt to feel better and to forget that they are so run down.

Alcohol is a very refined carbohydrate. It causes the cells’ sugar levels to rise dramatically and to make energy quickly; this is the followed by a rapid drop in sugar and energy levels. Hormones must be released to regulate these processes, which make the adrenals even more exhausted. This leads to more cravings for alcohol and/or drugs. The same thing happens when someone has a food addiction involving carbohydrates. This is why they continue to eat more of the same bad things.

Some of the signs of adrenal fatigue are blood sugar spikes when stresses, cravings for salt, depression, low energy, brain fog, low sex drive, and muscle fatigue. These feelings also contribute to the increased cravings for drugs and alcohol.

Treatment of adrenal fatigue is taking small breaks, learning to relax, early bedtime and slightly late risings, and laughter. Carbohydrates consumed should be unrefined and unprocessed, and the person should consume lean protein, olive oil, nuts, fish, sea salt, veggies, and snacking often.

If an addict is still fatigued upon entering recovery, they should have a through physical workup anyway. This should include tests to check the adrenal glands to see if they are fatigued.

Get addicts the help they need in a good drug rehab in Ontario.

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