The Best Adrenal Fatigue Supplements + How to use them

The Best Adrenal Fatigue Supplements + How to use them

Fatigue, exhaustion, and low energy…

These symptoms are incredibly common nowadays and they all may be pointing to a specific hormone imbalance commonly referred to as adrenal fatigue. 

But instead of focusing on the word adrenal fatigue, it’s better to focus on the hormone cortisol and how you can directly impact this very important stress hormone. 

Once you understand what is happening to your cortisol level you can target your therapies and supplements so you can finally reclaim your energy. 

In this guide I will walk you through how to treat your fatigue with the best adrenal fatigue supplements: 

Do you have Cortisol or Adrenal Issues?

We need to talk about what causes low energy and then we can talk about how to fix it.

Low energy is really a subjective symptom that is a result of low energy production in your body.

The majority of energy produced in your body comes from special organelles inside your cells known as mitochondria.

These mitochondria are responsible for the production of a compound known as ATP (adenosine triphosphate) and ATP is considered the “energy currency” for your body.

The amount of ATP that you produce and the efficiency of your mitochondria really help to define your subjective sense of energy (1).

a complex schematic diagram showing energy metabolism in a cell and in the mitochondria.

What’s even more interesting is that you can directly (and indirectly) impact ATP production and increase the efficiency of energy production in your body. 

In addition to being involved in energy production, ATP production is also involved in heat production and metabolism (2).

This may explain why so many people suffering from adrenal problems and low energy also present with weight gain as one of their main symptoms (3).

Why?

Because if your energy production in your body is lower than normal you will have less heat production which will result in a lower-than-normal body temperature and a slower-than-normal metabolism.

a complex diagram of the citric acid cycle and the production of ATP.

Make sense?

It’s helpful to think of your body as a machine. 

As long as you are alive your body will be producing energy, but you need to think in terms of efficiency.

Let’s say that “normal” is considered to be 100% efficient.

If you have hormone imbalances, and low/high cortisol levels this machine may be functioning at 70% of normal.

several graphs which show the relationship between adipose tissue gene expression in men and women.

This results in a ​30% deficiency in energy production that may be the result of nutrient deficiencies, hormone imbalances, etc. 

Treating adrenal fatigue is designed to increase the efficiency of this machine back up to 100%, so you have normal energy levels, a normal metabolism, and you finally start to feel yourself. ​

But this low energy production extends beyond just weight gain, in fact, low energy production in your body may result in many different symptoms which manifest in various ways. 

Symptoms that suggest you have adrenal problems and that you may need to get your cortisol level evaluated:

  • Constant fatigue throughout the day (classically with a 2-3 pm “crash”)
  • The sensation of being “wired but tired”, especially at night
  • The feeling of getting a “second wind” at night, especially around 9-10 pm
  • Weight gain and/or weight loss resistance
  • Other hormonal problems in the body, especially hypothyroidism
  • Changes in mood including depression, anxiety, and/or irritability
  • Intense carbohydrate or sugar cravings
  • Reliance upon stimulants (like caffeine) with frequent use throughout the day for “energy”
  • The sensation of more energy after eating a carbohydrate-rich (or sugar-rich) meal
  • Cravings for salty foods

​These symptoms all indicate an issue with “adrenal problems” or with energy production in your body. 

The good news is that if you suffer from these symptoms (or have a known diagnosis of adrenal fatigue) then you can use the following therapies to naturally increase your energy levels and improve energy production. ​

The Most Effective Adrenal Fatigue Supplements

In order to treat your adrenal and low energy you really need to target your supplements to your body. 

That means looking at your cortisol level.

I won’t go into significant detail here, because I’ve elaborated on the best cortisol test in this post, but it’s worth a quick mention.

First, you need to understand that your cortisol level has a big impact on your subjective sense of energy in your body. 

Second, you need to realize that certain supplements are better at lowering your cortisol and others are better at raising it.

Recall that high cortisol and low cortisol present with similar symptoms (those listed above), but you still need to know what is going on in your cortisol in order to target treatment.

There are a lot of different ways to measure cortisol in your body, but the best is definitely the urinary option with multiple tests throughout the day.

This doesn’t mean your serum cortisol is not helpful though, quite the contrary.

One problem with urinary testing is that it can be expensive, whereas serum cortisol is cheap and is covered by insurance.

This makes serum cortisol a good place to start.

​If you check your serum cortisol level look for these ranges:

  • Low serum cortisol: Less than 8 mcg/dL
  • Normal serum cortisol: 14-16 mcg/dL
  • High serum cortisol: Greater than 18 mcg/dL
an example of a low normal serum cortisol lab test result.

Using these ranges can give you an idea of where to start with your supplementation (though don’t confuse this as the best or only way to test cortisol levels). 

Below you will find a list of all of the adrenal supplements I use targeted at cortisol levels.

These supplements have been shown to be efficacious through literary studies and I have personally used them. ​

After we go through the entire list I will go through several of them individually to help determine which ones might be the best for you. ​

Treatment for Low Cortisol: 

  • Adrenal glandulars: These tend to work best for patients with very low cortisol levels, they also tend to provide an immediate boost to energy levels. Using glandulars in combination with other supplements listed below is very effective for low cortisol levels. Should be used for 6 + months. 
  • Adrenal adaptogens: Adaptogens can actually help to lower cortisol levels as well, but should at least be considered in the treatment. There are many types of adaptogens but I find that blends of multiple adaptogens tend to work best. These adaptogens can be combined with glandulars as well for more benefit. Should be used for 3+ months at least. 
  • CoQ10: This coenzyme is involved in proper mitochondrial energy production and can help increase energy levels. Because energy levels are often low in adrenal-related issues, mitochondrial boosters are particularly effective. Use 2 capsules (240mg) per day for several months. 
  • Alpha Lipoic acid: ALA helps increase mitochondrial energy production, and acts as a powerful antioxidant and an anti-inflammatory agent. ALA can also help with weight loss due to its effects on insulin. 
  • Vitamin B6: Vitamin B6 is used in several pathways in the creation of adrenal hormones and is a nutrient that many patients are deficient in. Taking higher doses of B6 during the acute phase of treatment may be necessary for short periods of time. 
  • DHEA: DHEA is the precursor to testosterone and other estrogen metabolites. With low cortisol and low adrenal hormone production, supplementing with hormone precursors may be of benefit. Start with a low dose every 2-3 days and increase to daily as tolerated. Be careful because DHEA can turn into androgens or estrogens in high doses. 
  • Pregnenolone: Pregnenolone is another hormone precursor and can be helpful if used along with DHEA. Watch out for acne as a side effect and like DHEA, start low and go slow. The use of these hormones may be necessary for 3+ months. 

Treatment for High Cortisol: 

  • Phosphatidylserine: Phosphatidylserine has been shown to reduce cortisol levels if taken in doses up to 600mg per day. Use 4-6 capsules at night (each capsule is 100mg) and recheck cortisol levels in 2-3 months. 
  • Ashwagandha: Ashwagandha is an adaptogen that can actually help to lower cortisol levels, boost libido, and may help with weight loss. You can read more about ashwagandha in this comprehensive post
  • Melatonin: Melatonin has been shown to reduce cortisol levels (4) and may actually help improve your sleep at night. Even if you are sleeping well, melatonin can still help reduce cortisol levels and should be considered. Dosages vary from 1-3mg, but starting with 3mg is generally tolerated unless you are very sensitive. 

#1. Adrenal Adaptogens (Ashwagandha)

Probably one of the best and most important supplements used to treat adrenal fatigue and cortisol problems is adrenal adaptogens. 

These are supplements that really can be defined by their ability to “normalize” or help “balance” cortisol levels.

Studies have shown (5) that these adaptogens can actually help increase cortisol levels when they are low and conversely that they can help lower cortisol levels when they are high.

This makes adaptogens a critical component for anyone dealing with adrenal fatigue. 

I have found that of the adrenal adaptogens that Ashwagandha seems to stand above the rest both in terms of its clinical utility and the literary studies that support its use.

Ashwagandha ​has a number of beneficial side effects that extend beyond its ability to increase energy levels and balance cortisol levels including: 

results from a research study showing that those who used ashwagandha saw an increase in vo2 max.

The added benefits of helping patients lose weight and boost thyroid function make this supplement one of my top choices. 

Many patients have hypothyroidism whether they realize it or not (especially since thyroid function decreases as you gain weight), so this supplement can often treat many problems you didn’t even know were present. ​

If you decide to use Ashwagandha make sure you use a high enough dose from a high-quality brand:

How to Supplement with Ashwagandha

  • Dosage varies from 500-2,000 mg per day depending on tolerance and degree of symptoms
  • Length of treatment varies by condition, for adrenal fatigue supplementation as long as 6+ months may be required.

My Recommended Brand and Product: Get ashwagandha here.

#2. Adrenal Glandulars (Usually combined with Adaptogens)

​Next on the list is the use of adrenal glandulars. 

These ​extracts have been used for a long time and definitely work, but the exact mechanism behind why they work is less understood. 

Some studies have shown that these extracts provide cellular benefits such as a reduction in inflammation (9), while other people insist that they contain active hormones that provide cellular support. 

Regardless of how they work, we definitely know that they do work (for most people).

Glandulars, as long as they are sourced correctly, can be a very effective addition (or used as monotherapy) when treating adrenal and cortisol problems.

In my experience, adrenal glandulars seem to provide the most benefit to patients who are suffering from EXTREME fatigue and those with very low cortisol levels. 

Glandulars can be used safely, but for best results should be used no more than 6 months at any given time. 

Adrenal glandulars seem to provide the quickest boost to energy levels with some patients noticing an increase in energy in as little as several days after starting supplementation. 

If you decide to use adrenal glandulars make sure you get a high-quality product: 

How to Supplement with Adrenal Glandulars

  • 1-2 Tablets per day if using Glandulars (preferably taken in the am and at noon)
  • If you get too jittery using these supplements then cut back to 1 or even 1/2 tablet each day as needed
  • Treatment may be required for up to 6 months

For severe adrenal fatigue you should use a combination of adrenal glandulars + adrenal adaptogens (ARC II above): 

Get adrenal glandulars here.

#3. Alpha Lipoic Acid

Remember that adrenal and hormone problems are a manifestation of other problems in the body.

Chronic stress, low-grade inflammation, and poor nutrition all contribute to reduced cellular energy production and hormone imbalances.

Because multiple conditions contribute to your symptoms you may need to use supplements designed to treat these other issues for the best results. 

​Alpha lipoic acid helps improve energy levels and treat adrenal problems through multiple mechanisms:

an abstract from a study showing benefits of alpha lipoic acid and its antioxidant function.

ALA also has shown benefits in helping patients lose weight. 

If you are having issues with weight loss or weight loss resistance then adding ALA to your current adrenal regimen may help with this problem. 

Alpha lipoic acid can be safely added to existing adrenal supplements and should be used specifically in people who have issues with weight loss, chronic inflammation, and insulin resistance in addition to low energy or fatigue. 

How to Supplement with Alpha Lipoic Acid

  • Take up to 1,800mg per day (depending on tolerance)
  • Start titration at 600mg per day and increase as tolerated
  • Length of treatment may vary depending on the condition but should last at least 3 months

#4. Phosphatidylserine

Phosphatidylserine is particularly effective for those suffering from high serum cortisol levels, or those with cortisol spikes throughout the day.

Unfortunately, there are very few effective treatments for those suffering from high cortisol (compared to the therapies available for low cortisol). 

Phosphatidylserine has been shown to attenuate (meaning decrease) cortisol levels (13).

This is especially helpful for patients who exercise quite frequently. 

Exercise, whether you realize it or not, does cause stress to the body which can result in an increase in cortisol. 

Because so many people deal with weight issues, and because the conventional approach is to simply exercise more, many people consequently now have issues with cortisol because of over-exercising. 

If you are exercising 4-5x per week (especially if this exercise is high intensity) you may be paradoxically causing more fatigue to your body. 

In these instances, phosphatidylserine may be necessary (in addition to reducing the amount that you exercise). 

I have seen many cases of patients actually losing weight as they cut back on exercise due to this effect. 

Phosphatidylserine should also be seriously considered in those who suffer from a racing mind, or issues with calming themselves down in the evening. 

How to Supplement with Phosphatidylserine

  • Use up to 600mg per day, taken at night. 

#5. Melatonin

​You’re probably aware that melatonin can help improve sleeping patterns, but you may not be aware that it can directly improve cortisol levels as well. 

Melatonin appears to have a direct action on adrenal tissue (14), meaning that melatonin helps regulate cortisol and other hormones. 

This relationship probably helps explain why cortisol levels spike around 8 am considering that melatonin levels increase (or should increase) as you sleep. 

What we learn from this is that it is very important to have a normal circadian rhythm and that various factors that interfere with this relationship can impact hormones and energy levels downstream. 

​Certain hormones (in fact most hormones) cycle normally throughout the day.

For instance, cortisol levels peak at 8 am and then slowly decrease throughout the waking hours of the day.

Compare that to melatonin, which peaks in the evening. ​

What we know is that if you interfere with this normal cycle there are serious consequences.

This may help explain why people who work night shifts have a higher risk of mortality (death) and lower growth hormone levels compared to people who work in the daytime. ​

Melatonin can be very beneficial in the following instances: 

  • Postmenopausal women (melatonin has been shown to increase cortisol in these women (15))
  • Those under heavy stress and difficulty sleeping at night (stress reduces melatonin secretion in the evening (16) which lowers cortisol production in the morning)
  • Those who suffer from depression (17)
  • Those with sleeping problems or circadian rhythm dysfunction
  • Those people working evening jobs or who have an abnormal wake/sleep cycle (those with “reversed” sleeping schedules)
  • Those who travel frequently (especially into different time zones)
  • Those who do not respond to adrenal glandulars or adrenal adaptogens

How to Supplement with Melatonin

  • Start with 1-3 mg per day (depending on the severity of symptoms)
  • Patients with extreme difficulty sleeping can start out at 3mg, sensitive patients should start out at 1mg 30 minutes prior to sleep
  • Take at night 30-60 minutes prior to planned bedtime (can be combined with phosphatidylserine for more benefit)

​Additional Treatments for Adrenal Fatigue

Using supplements should really only be part of your plan if you plan to increase your energy level.

While taking supplements can definitely provide an almost immediate boost to your energy levels, they should be accompanied by other lifestyle changes.

Why?

Because these lifestyle changes all contribute to your low energy in the first place!

That means if you don’t improve your diet, change your sleeping patterns or reduce your stress that your symptoms will eventually come back.

Taking this approach, combining supplements with lifestyle changes will result in long-term benefits for you. 

​#1. Stress Management & Stress reduction

​Number 1 on the list is to help reduce and/or manage stress in your life. 

This is listed as number one because it is THAT important.

What you need to understand is that in some cases you will not be able to ​reduce the cause of stress in your life (it may be related to your working environment, kids, spouse, etc.), but if it is something you can reverse or eliminate then you should make that your #1 priority. 

If you can’t remove the stressor in your life then you need to use tactics to help manage your stress and reduce its impact on your quality of life (and on your cortisol).

You can do this by adopting the following strategies:

  • Spend time meditating each day for at least 20 minutes
  • Use relaxing exercises like yoga
  • Spend quality time by yourself with something you enjoy
  • Take time to enjoy nature and spend time outdoors (spend time hiking or walking)
  • Find something that brings purpose back into your life (something that you love doing and feels gratifying to do)
  • Donate your time or money to help those less fortunate than you
  • Make it a point to SMILE (even if it’s forced!)
  • Spend time reflecting on the GOOD things in your life each and every day (come up with a list of 10 things at least)

#2. Quality Sleep​

​As you already know, your sleeping schedule directly impacts melatonin production and thus cortisol levels. 

Beyond this, a general lack of sleep has been associated with weight gain and general inflammation in the body (18).

The importance of getting quality sleep each and every night cannot be understated.

If you are someone who deals with sleep issues or insomnia, then managing your sleep should be a top priority for you.

And by quality sleep I mean you need to be getting at minimum 8 hours of sleep each and every night.

This sleep should leave you feeling rested and ready to tackle your day in the morning.

If your sleep is anything but this, then you need to fix it ASAP.

You can use tactics that we’ve discussed in this article like taking melatonin as well as improving general sleeping habits such as:

  • Setting a bedtime and sticking to it
  • Avoiding caffeine or stimulants (that includes coffee, soda, etc.)
  • Improve your sleeping environment (sleep in a cool and pitch-black room)
  • Taking supplements like melatonin 30-60 minutes prior to bedtime if necessary

​#3. Dietary Changes

Lastly, but certainly not the least important, is your diet.

If you haven’t changed your diet to exclude refined carbohydrates and sugars then you should start there first.

In a more basic sense, you should focus on a whole foods type of diet.

This change in diet will help lower inflammation (if it exists) and increase the nutrient content and density of your diet.

Advanced dietary changes such as carbohydrate cycling may be necessary for some individuals, but for now, just realize you HAVE to be eating a healthy diet if you want to increase your energy levels. 

Adrenal Fatigue & Weight Gain

Do adrenal and cortisol problems lead to weight gain?

The answer is yes. 

​Not only does cortisol increase insulin resistance and promote leptin resistance, but it also directly alters thyroid function. 

These hormones are all very important as it relates to your weight and how your body utilizes fat.

High cortisol has been shown to promote hypothyroidism (19) (and lead to a higher-than-normal TSH).

Cortisol also promotes insulin resistance (20) which may increase your risk of type II diabetes and lead to weight gain (especially belly and visceral fat).

It is through these mechanisms that adrenal-related problems (specifically cortisol dysregulation) can lead to weight gain.

Changes to your cortisol, as we discussed above, also impact cellular energy production which leads to a lower-than-normal metabolism.

The combination of hormone imbalances and a slow metabolism lead to the symptom of weight loss resistance and weight gain that many patients experience with cortisol issues.

In order to treat your weight problem, you will first need to evaluate your cortisol function and treat any existing issues.

For best results, you will also need to address any specific hormone imbalances that exist as a consequence of high/low cortisol. 

​Back to you

​The bottom line is that you CAN feel better and can have more energy, but this requires a targeted approach with the right supplements. 

It all starts by getting your serum cortisol levels checked (you can use advanced tests like urinary testing after you get your serum cortisol checked) in addition to other hormones such as insulin and leptin. 

Once you know what is happening in your body you can then target your supplements directly to your cortisol level and to the other hormone imbalances that may be present as a result of cortisol dysregulation. 

Also, remember that treating your adrenals takes TIME – on the order of 6+ months in most cases. 

Take it slow, be consistent and make sure to also add in lifestyle changes. 

Now it’s your turn:

Are you suffering from adrenal fatigue?

Have supplements helped you?

Why or why not?

Leave your comment below! 

#1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2680051/

#2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23264395

#3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5097076/

#4. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19301769

#5. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3573577/

#6. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4658772/

#7. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4296437/

#8. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3040882/

#9. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/14690452

#10. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21666939

#11. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2734271/

#12. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3821094/

#13. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16869708

#14. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19301769

#15. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/9181519

#16. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/1609019

#17. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/2994141

#18. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3632337/

#19. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3520819/

#20. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3050109/

adrenal fatigue supplements for high and low cortisol pinterest image.

picture of westin childs D.O. standing

About Dr. Westin Childs

Hey! I'm Westin Childs D.O. (former Osteopathic Physician). I don't practice medicine anymore and instead specialize in helping people like YOU who have thyroid problems, hormone imbalances, and weight loss resistance. I love to write and share what I've learned over the years. I also happen to formulate the best supplements on the market (well, at least in my opinion!) and I'm proud to say that over 80,000+ people have used them over the last 7 years. You can read more about my own personal health journey and why I am so passionate about what I do.

P.S. Here are 4 ways you can get more help right now:

#1. Get my free thyroid downloads, resources, and PDFs here.

#2. Need better symptom control? Check out my thyroid supplements.

#3. Sign up to receive 20% off your first order.

#4. Follow me on Youtube, Facebook, TikTok, and Instagram for up-to-date thyroid tips, tricks, videos, and more.

47 thoughts on “The Best Adrenal Fatigue Supplements + How to use them”

  1. I was recently diagnosed “officially” to be suffering from adrenal fatigue but have suspected it for quite some time and have read extensively about it and incorporated several of the supplements you discuss here already. Thanks for sharing this, I personally am grateful for everything you put out. There have been times, even tho I have not been treated by you, I feel as tho you have had a hand in my ever so slow progress. I’m getting there but it has been quite a long “haul”.

    Reply
    • Hi Laura,

      Thanks for sharing your story and I hope you continue to feel improvement! Keep me updated on your progress.

      Reply
  2. So what is the recommendation if you serum cortisol is between 9-13? There is a gap in the recommendations above. Mine historically in the AM have been between 10.3 – 12.7.

    Reply
    • Hi Candace,

      The gap is intentionally left open because not all cases are black and white. Most cases of high cortisol or low cortisol are relatively easy to diagnose and treat, the other left somewhere in the middle require more attention and work up.

      Reply
      • Thank you for your response. Hahaha, of course I fall in the gap…such is my life. 🙂 I have already come a long way out of a huge hole…but it is frustrating to be in a middle ground where most doctors do not recognize or acknowledge that there is anything wrong. I will keep on keeping on! Thank you for all your articles. I have found them tremendously helpful in find my “why” and “I’m not alone”.

        Reply
        • Hi Doctor. Blood test of cortisol was middle result therefor gp will not give me anything for adrenal crash I get too often after period of emotional stress. What can I do to help myself recover quickly from this daunting experience as I believe it should be managed . Thank you

          Reply
          • Hi Margaret,

            Unfortunately, serum cortisol is not a great way to assess the stress response. My general recommendation is to just use stress reduction techniques and therapies because they don’t hurt and will very likely help. You can find a list of supplements and adaptogens that can help in this very article.

  3. Hi Dr. Childs,

    I have hypothyroidism x 40= yrs. It has always been a battle. I also have heterozygous C677 MTHFR mutation. I was reading an article from a functional medicine practitioner that stated people with hypothyroidism should NOT take ALA. However you are recommending it. Any idea why there is a conflict of opinion here?

    Reply
    • Hi Karen,

      This article is about those with adrenal fatigue which includes people with and without hypothyroidism. I also find ALA works fine in hypothyroid patients, you have to reconcile clinical medicine with clinical studies and often times they don’t match up.

      Reply
  4. Thank you once again. I so appreciate the detailed information. I’m going to give the supplements a try and wil get back to you. Thanks for doing what you do.

    Reply
  5. Hi Dr. Childs,
    Thank you so much for your video and explaining everything to us in a way we can understand what is going on in our bodies!!
    I have Hashimotos. Battle with eight loss and all of the above.
    I have been on Thyroid meds for 3 years now. My dr. told me the meds will cause osteoporosis in the long run.
    If I add all the supplements you have recommended , may I stop the medication? I have been on the right diet for a long time too. (everything you have recommended)
    Thank you for all you do!

    Reply
    • Hi Ricky,

      Thyroid medication does not cause osteoporosis. Some people believe that suppressing the TSH with thyroid medication leads to osteoporosis but even that data is not convincing.

      You can consider adding the supplements listed above but I would not recommend discontinuing your thyroid medication unless recommended by your physician as it can be dangerous.

      Reply
  6. I have elevated TPO but normal levels with my other labs. I started taking a good thyroid supplement from my compounding pharmacist and am not on thyroid meds. I’m also an RN and with a lot of research believe my problem is mostly Adrenal fatigue. My question is can my TPO be elevated from just Adrenal fatigue or is it also hypothyroid though my levels are normal. I feel good since starting my supplements my only concern left is my thinning hair. I might also add that this all started after I lost my mother in January, had major surgery 2 days before she died and just put my son in rehab after that. Lots of stress. Any feedback would be helpful

    Reply
  7. Hi Dr Child

    This post was very informative, thank you.

    I have struggled with insomnia for 4 years now along with all the symptoms outlined above. I only recently came across the concept of adrenal fatigue and was astonished at how accurately it described my situation.

    I’m a 27 year old female who has suffered a huge deal of consistent traumatic experiences and stress one after the other, ever since I can remember as a toddler to now.

    Anyway’s my question is, is it good for the body to all of a sudden take:

    Ashwagandha
    Holy basil
    Glandular supplement
    Fish oils
    Vitamin B complex
    Vitamin C
    Vitamin D3
    Zinc
    Magnesium
    Probiotics?

    This is a comprehensive list of supplements I was told will help adrenal fatigue.

    Can the human body handle all of these in a day?

    I’ve heard of the start slow and low method so I’m going with that but wanted some help on this before beginning my course.

    I’m also undergoing stress management; diet changes and sleep management.

    Thank you and your response will help a great deal.

    Reply
  8. Hello, I have tried various adaptogenic herbs in the past year (combination products) but they give me insomnia, causing me to wake up around 2-4am and unable to get back to sleep. It starts on day 2 of treatment and persists for months after discontinuing the adaptogen combo. What is the cause of this? I am about to start Dr James Wilson’s adrenal fatigue protocol from his book (using his Adrenal cell extract that has hormones removed). I have low cortisol and I think that is causing my hypothyroid symptoms (tried NDT and T3 but didn’t tolerate them and have high RT3 issues). My ND put me on oral bioidentical progesterone at 40mg every day (1-28) due to insomnia and low progesterone levels. It doesn’t seem to help much anymore. I am going to switch to ProGest cream days 12-28. I had SIBO/Candida for a few years and did a rigorous treatment program to eradicate them and I believe that resulted in my adrenal fatigue.

    Reply
  9. Very good information.Is there a recommended time of day to take these supplements such as DHEA, Pregnenolone, Ashwaganda and others you
    have discussed here?

    Reply
  10. Dr. Westin, I just saw a Functional Medicine MD. I was diagnosed as hypothyroid in 2012 after a decade of constant stress: divorce, move across the state, new job, and then navigating this down market and finances. I’m in a far better place now, but it took a toll on my health. My MD says she believes I have adrenal fatigue. I’m a holistic health coach myself and she says my diet and movement can’t improve much, but I need to try to stop, meditate, etc to reduce my cortisol levels. I do have Type 2 diabetes in my family and want very much NOT to go there. I spin 3-4 times weekly and walk other times, stretch 45 min daily. I also do acupuncture regularly. I am on 75mcg levothyroxine (with my supplements, have been able to reduce from 80 mcg. I want very badly to add to my daily supplements the appropriate adrenal fatigue regimen. I also slowly gained 8 lbs since 2011 and would LOVE to take this off. I eat organic as much as possible, as well as gluten-free, only dairy is organic Greek Yogurt and Keifer, and only grass fed beef and cage free poultry & eggs.
    Please let me know, besides meditation and deep belly breathing, which I will begin, what supplements I should add. Also, should I get any testing done first and if so, what? I just turned 65 and am on Medicare (which is perfectly AWFUL!), but besides my Levothyroxine the only other RX I’m on is Estradiol 2 mg (have had a uterine hysterectomy, so no risk there).
    Thanks so much!

    Reply
  11. Dear Dr. Childs,
    For almost 3 years I have had anxiety nonstop in my body along with depression. I found a good nutritionist in January who has had me change my diet and I eat very healthy and take supplements. I have lost 60 pounds and walk at least a mile everyday. But I am still experiencing anxiety all day. In the morning I wake up feeling very warm, anxious, wired and yet tired, arms tingly and it never goes away except at night I can get a little relief.
    I was diagnosed with hypothyroidism years ago. I did an adrenalmend program from February through March. Nothing has seemed to help. My thyroid medicine dose goes up and down and I about 2 weeks ago I went from 88 to 75 and right now my TSH is at 4.94. The nutritionist thought my thyroid should be mended and I don’t need thyroid medicine. My cortisol level is 22.0 in the morning and afternoon. I have suffered so much and I am desperate for help. I am 55 years old and post menopausal. I am on disability and not able to function in life. Please help me get my life back.

    Reply
    • Hi Darcy,

      Sorry to hear about your struggle! If you haven’t already I would definitely recommend looking into mindfulness/meditation as both of these can help with anxiety. It may be related to your thyroid, as you suggest, but even so, those therapies should still help.

      Reply
  12. Can a 15 year old take these supplements? They have Hashimoto’s disease and have adrenal issues. I would appreciate any information you may have on either Hashimoto’s disease and adrenal repair for this age group please.

    Thank you

    Reply
    • Hi Max,

      The answer is maybe, most of these are meant for adults so you’ll want to touch base with your pediatrician to ensure that it is safe to use if you are under 18.

      Reply
  13. Hi from Elize.

    Please share your opinion on using Adrenal cortex for low morning cortisol and evening highs. Glandular cause me high adrenaline and already have issues with high adrenaline.

    Thanks

    Reply
  14. Which supplements do you suggest for Serum Cortisol 7 AM level at 17.9mcg/dl?
    Hashimoto’s patient currently taking 100mcg Levothyroxine & 25mcg Liothyronine.
    Thx

    Reply
  15. I am already taking the T3 conversion so is there something that has all these recommended supplements in one bottle or do we take the 2 t3 caps, and then 2 of adrenal and then 2 of something else, etc?

    Reply
  16. Hi Dr i have been suffering adrenal fatigue for years plus hypothyroidism , health anxiety , depression and massive sleep debt!! I have just been put in progesterone but looking back when i tried antidepressants a few years back everyone i tried made me sooo drugged or hungover and the same thing has happened with thyroxine i went from 50 mg a day to 25mg every 2nd day as well as my progesterone couldn’t take even 25mg so i tale 12.5 and besides these i feel extremely tired or drugged after melatonin, half a tsp of magnesium powder and adaptogenic herbs!!!!! So i stop cause it is so hard to function when your baseline was fatigue !! Can you please shed some light on why everything i take makes me super groggy is there something more wrong !! I ask this question alot with so many medical and holistic professionals and they have no ans and I continue to suffer!! Please helpI will add my sleep has improved on progesterone but my mood and energy is low too from this !! Thankyou kindly, josie

    Reply
  17. Hi,
    I am a 39 year old woman with Hashimoto and high cortisol levels (23 AM serum). I will be ordering your suggested thyroid supplements but now i’m trying to figure out what adrenal supplements to try. My cortisol level stated above are while using melatonin on a regular basis. Should I use the ARCII and Thyroid Adrenal Reset? Should the phosphatidylserine be a second choice? Or Should I take all 3 along with my nightly melatonin/5-HTP? My symptoms are pretty sever and I’m still trying to find a doctor that will address my Hashimotos with any kind of seriousness. My thyroid tests hit the low but “normal” levels. Any help would be welcome! TSH 3.26 free T4 1.16 IPOAb 10

    Reply
  18. I asked my doctor to do a workup on me as all summer I’ve had horrible fatigue. All was well but she said my TSH was a bit elevated at 5.36. 1 year ago I was 1.4. I’ve been under EXTREME stress since April, as a bedside hospital RN since the pandemic, and I just crashed out in June/July. I understand my TSH is high, but I don’t feel like primary hypothyroid is my issue and feel just taking synthroid will mask the issue. My sleep is horrible, I sleep non stop my days off and can’t get out of bed. The days I work I get maybe 3hrs because I panic all night. I crash 2 or 3pm daily, I have 2nd winds at 10pm that keep me wide awake. I’m very irritated 24/7, constantly on edge, can’t ever relax. My symptoms fit 110% with adrenal fatigue, what would you recommend I take? Should I hold off on the thyroid meds, could fixing adrenals fix the TSH? I’m going to see an integrative NP, what should I ask about?

    Reply
  19. Hi Dr. Childs, Hope you are doing well. I really appreciate the way you have explained the supplements and adrenal fatigue. Thanks a lot. I have done my saliva cortisol test and the following are the results, can you please guide if these are normal or low as according to the ranges these are normal but I believe I have low cortisol and technically have adrenal fatigue which causes fatigue/brain fog including low sex hormones.

    Cortisol 1 (7:10AM)
    5.3
    Normal range 3.0 -16.0 nmol/L

    Cortisol 2 (7:40AM)
    11.3
    Normal range 9.0 – 26.0 nmol/L

    Cortisol 3 (8:10AM)
    6.1
    NORMAL RANGE 5.0 – 9.0 nmol/L

    Cortisol 4 (3:40pm)
    3.6
    NORMAL RANGE 3.0- 9.0 nmol/L

    Cortisol 5 (10:30pm)
    0.7
    NORMAL RANGE 0.5- 4.0 nmol/L

    DHEA am
    0.75
    NORMAL RANGE 0.51- 2.59 nmol/L

    DHEA pm
    0.82
    NORMAL RANGE 0.39 – 1.59 nmol/L

    Thanks for your support.

    Reply
  20. Thank You for giving Option of Serum Cortisol Testing bcoz all Articles on Adrenal Dysfunction only suggest Dutch Test n Adrenal Dysfunction n HPA Axsis Dysfunction are two different names for same condition right? N Yes Wired n High Cortisol Adrenaline spikes response specially at night is Tougher but Calming Herbs like Chamomile/Avena Sativa /Passionflower etc do help me but have to be used continuously as Symathetic Nervous System Overtone has become Default Setting….

    Reply
    • Hi Manisha,

      For the most part, yes. When I mention adrenal dysfunction I am referring to HPA axis dysfunction but I don’t know if those terms are standard among other practitioners.

      Reply
  21. I would like to know the ingredients in your Adrenal formula and also your thyroid supplements.

    Thank you

    Reply

Leave a Reply to Westin Childs Cancel reply

0
Your Cart
Your cart is emptyReturn to Shop
Calculate Shipping