Last Updated on June 5, 2026 by Deliciously Organic Editor
Did you know that almost everyone struggling with thyroid disease also has some form of adrenal fatigue? I help clients with this issue every single week at my practice, so I’m going to share 20 steps to heal from adrenal fatigue naturally so you can get back to feeling like yourself again!
What is Adrenal Fatigue?
Adrenal fatigue in simple terms is when the adrenals are overstimulated by long-term stress. This can lead to an inconsistent level of cortisol in the bloodstream.
As this chronic stress and cortisol output continues, it can lead to a long list of symptoms including hormone imbalance, anxiety, thyroid disease, immune system issues, elevated cortisol and much more.
If you struggle with thyroid disease, it’s important you take steps to heal the adrenals so the rest of your endocrine system can return to homeostasis.
Here are some common symptoms of adrenal fatigue:
A tendency to be a night person
Hair loss
Having difficulty falling asleep
Waking up in the middle of the night with difficulty falling back asleep
You’re a slow starter in the morning
Feeling keyed up and having trouble calming down
Low blood pressure
Headaches after exercising
Clenching or grinding your teeth
Chronic low- or middle-back pain
Difficulty maintaining chiropractic adjustments
Craving salty foods
Perspiring easily
Chronic fatigue or getting drowsy often
Afternoon yawning
Afternoon headache
Anxiety
Panic attacks
Seasonal or chronic allergies
Pain on the medial (inner) side of the knee or knees
Needing to wear sunglasses
Dizziness when you stand up
Difficulty losing weight
Gaining weight around the waistline
Getting upset or angry easily
Doesn’t that sound like “modern life?” No wonder people are having so many endocrine issues!
What do the adrenals do?
The adrenal glands are two small glands that sit on top of the kidneys. They are part of the endocrine system and also help regulate your metabolism, the immune system, your stress response, and hormones such as aldosterone, androgens, estrogen, and pregeneolone.
When it comes to the topic of adrenal fatigue, here is the key information to understand:
The adrenals are a part of the HPA-axis. This is the hypothalamus, pituitary and adrenals. When the body is under stress, the hypothalamus will tell the adrenals to produce stress hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline.
If the stress becomes chronic, the adrenals will at first produce additional stress hormones, but then overtime, the stress hormone production will reduce. This will often result in things such as low DHEA, elevated cholesterol, blood sugar imbalance, insomnia, anxiety, high or low testosterone or progesterone, weaken the endocrine system, immune system, digestive system and the brain.
Here’s how adrenal fatigue affects the thyroid:
Overtime, the hypothalamus will see that the body is over-stressed and it will then tell the pituitary to raise TSH and lower thyroid hormones. And for some, it will lower TSH and possibly raise thyroid hormones.
So, if you are wanting to reduce your thyroid symptoms, start with healthy adrenal glands.
Can you get tested for Adrenal Fatigue?
There isn’t an exact test for adrenal fatigue, but you can get a saliva cortisol test to look at your cortisol patterns throughout the day. A blood test only tests at one time during the day, so it’s not the best option.
Seeing the pattern of cortisol throughout the day will give you and your practitioner a good idea of whether adrenal imbalance is a factor for you.
Is adrenal fatigue real?
While it’s not listed in medical literature as a disease, HPA-axis imbalance or chronic stress that causes adrenal issues is very real. One of the best books on this topic is, The Stress of Life, by Hans Selye.
I’ve seen over and over at my practice that when we work on balancing the HPA-axis, and specially support the adrenals, that so many symptoms of thyroid disease vanish. And, we also often see TSH and thyroid hormones balance as well.
So, while the medical community might not say it’s real, the symptoms and imbalance in the body are very real.
What should you eat for adrenal fatigue?
A nutrient-dense diet that is void of processed foods is a great diet to eat for adrenal fatigue.
Here’s a short list of foods to eat:
Vegetables and fruits
Organic, pastured meats
Soaked and cooked legumes and lentils
Soaked, fermented or sprouted grains
Healthy fats such as butter, ghee, lard and tallow
Raw or cultured dairy
Organic spices and herbs
Fermented foods
It’s also imperative to make sure and not eat a low carb diet. While a lower carb diet is helpful for some health issues, it can put stress on the adrenals and cause further symptoms including hormonal imbalance, blood sugar imbalance, thyroid hormone imbalance, etc.
So it’s important to get good, healthy carbs into your diet each day such as: potatoes (make sure to eat with plenty of butter), root vegetables, peas, properly prepared legumes or gluten-free grains (if you can tolerate them), apples, pears, berries, and beets.
I like Dr. Christianson’s idea of eating one golfball-size portion of carbs at breakfast, two golfball-size portions of carbs at lunch, and three golfball-size portions of carbs at dinner. Using this method, dinner should be the largest meal of the day.
And most importantly, don’t stress about your food. Do the best you can, and let the rest go.
How long does it take to heal from adrenal fatigue?
Fully healing the adrenals usually takes a minimum of 6-9 months and for some it can take up to 12 months. The good news is that even making just a few changes can help you feel better within weeks or even days!
As you read the list below, remember: this is a marathon, not a sprint.
Here are 20 Steps to Heal Adrenal Fatigue Naturally:
1. As soon as you wake up, drink a glass of water along with 1/4 teaspoon of Celtic sea salt. Then, throughout the day, have a pinch of sea salt with each glass of water and also use it to season your food. Daily total consumption of about 2 teaspoons of Celtic sea salt is a good place to start. The 80+ minerals in the salt will help nourish the adrenals and endocrine system.
2. Eat breakfast within one hour of waking. If you wait any longer than this, it can cause your blood sugar levels to decrease too much and your adrenals can start producing excess cortisol.
3. Eat regular meals throughout the day and include some protein, complex carbohydrates and healthy fat in each meal. I know this is a simple step, but skipping meals can put a strain on the adrenals.
4. Remove all processed foods from your diet. Processed foods are a stressor on the body, and the goal is to remove stressors as much as possible to help support the adrenals.
5. Only do low-impact exercise like walking, pilates, gentle yoga or stretching. High impact exercise puts strain on the adrenals, especially when the adrenals are already fatigued. If you’re having trouble losing weight, I know this can seem counter-productive, but I’ve seen clients lose weight by resting and following the steps I’m listing here. Here’s more info on this topic.
6. Sit down to eat each meal and eat slowly. Don’t eat on-the-go, when you’re stressed, driving, etc. Here’s an entire article to help you understand the importance of eating in a slow and relaxed state.
7. Diffuse essential oils throughout the day to help you feel more relaxed. If you can’t diffuse the oils, put a drop or two on the bottoms of your feet or on the spine twice a day to help lower stress levels. In fact, this study found that inhaling lavender essential oil can decrease cortisol levels. That’s good news for the adrenals!
8. Spend more time outdoors. Getting fresh air and being in nature helps reduce the stress response in the body.
9. Avoid intermittent fasting or a super low-carb diet right now. While IR and a low carbohydrate diet can be very helpful for many health issues, I don’t recommend it when there is adrenal imbalance because it can create additional stress on the body. Here’s more info on the topic.
10. Know that you’re in this for the long-haul. It takes a minimum of about 6-9 months to balance the adrenals and for some people it can take up to a year. Having a long-term mindset can help you achieve the goal of adrenal balance. Be patient and kind with yourself.
11. Take an epsom salt bath a few times a week (or each evening, if you can). When you’re stressed, the first mineral your body burns through is magnesium (this is why so many people are magnesium deficient!). Soaking in a bath with 1 cup of epsom salts and a few drops of your favorite essential oil will help you relax and replenish your magnesium stores.
12. Go to bed by 9pm each night and aim to get 8-9 hours of sleep a night. Honestly, the best way to heal your adrenals is with sleep.
13. Consider supplementation to help support your adrenals. Here are a few of the ones I use in my practice:
- Drenamin – This is my go-to for adrenal support. It contains vitamin C, B6, choline as well as many other nutrients, and helps address the nutritional deficiencies that the adrenals may be experiencing and supports them at a foundational level.
- Cataplex C – This is a great source of antioxidant vitamin C. Cataplex C helps the adrenals because they have one of the highest concentrations of vitamin C in the body.
- Cataplex B – B vitamins are very helpful to support your adrenal glands’ cortisol response to stress. Cataplex B is my go-to and is an excellent source of thiamin, niacin, and vitamin B6. They also have a gluten-free option.
- Cod Liver Oil – Did you know that adrenal cortical hormones are generated from cholesterol? The adrenals use cholesterol to make pregnenolone, which is used to produce estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, DHEA and other hormones. In fact, all sex hormones are derived from cholesterol. Cod liver oil is a great way to supplement with healthy cholesterol along with vitamins A and D. I find it a fantastic addition to other adrenal supplementation.
14. Try adaptogenic herbs like ashwaghanda that supports the nervous system. Ashwaghanda Forte is one of my favorites. Some who have autoimmunity don’t do well on adaptogenic herbs, so always talk to your practitioner about what’s best for you.
15. Drink plenty of filtered water each day. Drink 1/2 your weight in ounces is a good goal — a 160-pound person should drink about 80 ounces of water per day. Hydration is really important for the endocrine system. Without the right amount of water, the body can’t transport the necessary nutrients and hormones to the cells properly. So, please make sure you’re getting enough water.
16. Eat as many fresh organic vegetables as possible at all three meals with some healthy fats. There is no limit on vegetable intake.
17. Include protein at each meal – get these proteins from meat, poultry, wild seafood, eggs, etc.
18. Eat magnesium-rich foods. Magnesium-rich foods help support the adrenal glands. Foods such as dark leafy greens, fatty fish, avocado, and soaked nuts, seeds and legumes are all good sources of magnesium to include in your diet throughout the week.
19. Eliminate all caffeine. I know this is a hard one, but your adrenals will thank you! Caffeine is like liquid stress for the adrenals, so it’s really best to avoid it. Here’s a post about how I kicked the coffee habit — with step-by-step instructions for you.
20. Take one day of rest each week. While it’s popular to “hustle”, that kind of daily mentality can lead to all sorts of health issues and will strain the adrenals. Take a day each week to rest. Turn off your phone, get outside, or just sleep all day if that’s what your body needs. It’s ok. God set the example by taking a day to rest, so I order my week that way, too!
If you’d like to learn more about how to heal from adrenal fatigue, I recommend checking out my Adrenal Balance Program. I teach you everything you need to know to balance your adrenals and to get back to feeling like yourself again!
How can I learn more about the steps I can take for thyroid disease?
I have four fantastic options for you!
- To download my 50 of my top tips to support the thyroid naturally, tap here. I’ll also send you an educational email every few days to help you learn how to support your body naturally.
- If you’d like to learn from first steps you can take to help support your thyroid, check out my class, “5 Keys to Thyroid Hormone Balance”. It’s just 45 minutes and I promise you’ll learn something new!
- If you’re looking for a step-by-step plan for Hashimoto’s that truly works (no more piecing together info!), check out my 90-Day Thyroid Reset Program.
- Book a consult with me for one-on-one help. Here’s info about what working with me looks like.
Carrie, what’s your opinion about seltzer water? Is it detrimental to your body?
It’s ok on occasion, but it can create deficiencies in the body if consumed on a regular basis.
Oh wow! Didn’t know that.
Where can I find more info on that (that’s accurate and valid).
What do you suggest when someone is adrenally fatigued and she just found out she is pregnant? Hope you can help
So much wonderful info. Thank you for your amazing work and sharing it with the all of us! Was hoping you could clarify if weightlifting is considered high impact? Currently lifting 3x a week.
It depends on how heavy the weights are. I recommend lower weight and higher reps until you see your symptoms improve.
Hi Carrie,
I just finished a 2 week detox aimed at improving Hashimotos symptoms. For the most part, I feel the same and am starting to realize that I’m going to have to make some changes for a lot longer than 2 weeks to get back to feeling normal. I would like to implement your steps to help heal my adrenals. My question to you is, have you cut out things like caffeine longterm? Or did you reintroduce some things to your diet once your adrenals were back on track?
Thank you,
Ruthanna
I cut out caffeine, grains, sugars, and other offending foods for many years to help reverse my disease. I was in a really tough spot, so most don’t need to avoid those foods for that long. I eventually reintroduced foods and while I was once sensitive to any food I ate, now I can eat anything and be completely fine! I do continue to avoid all processed foods and eat a nutrient-dense diet now that I’m in “maintenance mode”. 🙂
I would like more information on your response regarding seltzer. Please, can you share more information or a link to some? Thank you!
hello
my name is Daniela, I have been Dx with hypothyroidism since 1991
I have been taking tyroid med all these years
so glad to find your blog
can you address where to start to ensure my thyroid health
I feel like I have a lot to catch up !😟
I’d start with taking my free online class! https://deliciouslyorganic.net/thyroid-disease-masterclass
Are you a registered dietitian, Carrie? Just checking before asking my questions.
I’m a Nutritional Therapist and work at the nutrition practice, Biodynamic Wellness based in Solana Beach, CA.
I didn’t realize you are local. When this whole corona virus thing is over I will pay you a visit for sure as I’m in Scripps Ranch. For now I am reading all your information and attempting todo everything I can. Thank you!
Hi, what if I have adrenal burn out (many other health issues including hashi) is there any hope for recovery? Thx
Yes! The tips I share in this post can be very helpful!
My CFS has progressed to Adrenal Fatigue and it has affected my nervous system. Can the adaptogens still be of use? I’m trying to rebuild back to baseline and beyond.
Some do well on them and some don’t, so I recommend talking to your practitioner about what’s best for you.
Hello,
Do you like progesterone cream to help balance high cortisol, stressed adrenals, estrogen dominance?
Thanks
Low progesterone can be rooted in elevated cortisol, so I prefer to first work on balancing cortisol before trying a cream. And, if estrogen is elevated, this is often rooted in liver congestion, so I find it best to work on that root cause as well before trying an exogenous hormone.
Celtic salt is that the same as Pink Himalayan salt
Thankyou most beautiful and very helpful
I am interested in doing the cortisol test and then having you write up a personalize plan for me. I’ve been dealing with adrenal fatigue for over two years now and I have done a lot of what you are recommending but I still feel stuck. How much are your consultations and does that include the personalized plan?
The initial consult is $250 which includes a 2 hour virtual or phone appointment with me where we go over your complete health history. We also send you symptom surveys ahead of time that you complete, and we will go over those at that time as well. After your appointment I will write up a diet, detox, and supplement protocol for you. My clients then have a 30 minute follow-up appointment each month ($60) until we don’t need to be meeting anymore because their health goals have been met.
Hi there, such great info! Thank you for sharing w the world. I have been chronicling fatigue for over 10 years now. I have a very hard time digesting fats, your butter mints sound amazing. I also have hypoglycemia so those have loved to try them. Any idea what what can cause fat malabsorption? Also I have been wanting to do a hormone/adrenal test for some time. Do you by any chance use Dutch test?
Low stomach acid is usually the root cause of fat malabsorption, but then again, it could be other things. Yes, we use the Dutch test in our office. If you’d like to order one, or need help knowing what to do after you get your results, give our office a call. I work with all clients long distance and am happy to help! Biodynamic Wellness – 858.259.6000
Can you consult via Skype to Australia
I am gaining weight
I do not over eat
In fact probably under eat
I do some of the stuff
But I’m not organised enough.
Can we skype and get the test kit to Australia
I can use PayPal
Jenny Groves
Ps I think I have Candida
We can arrange Skype consults through our office, but I’m currently booked out for several months, so I recommend taking my online Thyroid Support and Health online course. Here’s the info for you! https://deliciouslyorganic.net/thyroid-online-course/
The Dutch test kit is available in Australia. I just did one with a naturopath in Qld via rnlabs. I’m sure there are practitioners in Vic and NSW for instance as well who use this test ( and do ph consults).
Are you Canadian or American. My adrenals are shot and the doctors who injured me and put a polymedicated version to deal with. I need strong adrenals to begin taking them out.
Our practice is located in the US.
What can I use as an alternative to the raw honey in the buttermint recipe as when I eat honey it causes me bloating and digestive discomfort?
Thank you so much! Really appreciate this information.
A couple of questions for you! If medication has been started and used for a long time for hypothyroidism, can it slowly be tapered off and replaced with natural therapies? Is Celtic sea salt superior to Himalayan sea salt for some reason or are they interchangeable? Thanks!
This particular email makes sense to and for me. Just want to say thank you – I can identify I guess with all 20.
Can I have adrenal fatigue and low cortisol?
Yes. The two usually go hand-in-hand. I’d talk to your practitioner about the best steps that you can take to support your body.
That’s interesting because a whike back I did saliva cortisol testing and my cortisol levels showed to spike in the evening when they should be going down and they drop in the morning when they should be coming up. But yet I am convinced I have adrenal fatigue along with the hypothyroidism that I know I have. Hence my reason for signing up to do your protocol. Thoughts??
If your results came back showing your adrenals are out of balance, then these steps can really help. It does take time, so keep that in mind!
I couldn’t find anything about the adrenal tonic on the link you gave. Can I find it somewhere else?
This is a tonic made in-house and only sold via our office. If you give us a call, you can order a bottle. Here’s the number: Biodynamic Wellness 858.259.6000
Hi Carrie, is there any way to get tested for adrenal fatigue, i.e. hormone imbalance or something like that? This sounds like my husband. Thanks!
Yes, you can call our office – Biodynamic Wellness: 858.259.6000 – and we can order the tests for you.
Can you do these tests for Canadians?
Does taking the Celtic sea salt interact with thyroid meds at all, since there are minerals in it and you aren’t supposed to take calcium within 4hours? I take my meds first thing in the morning.
The trace amount of calcium would be so minute, that I don’t see it causing any issues, but you’d want to talk to you doctor about any drug interactions.
Hello. Loved all of this information. I was diagnosed with insulin resistant diabetes about 5 months ago. Reason for finally seeing Dr. was the knee issue mentioned here, so I think I also have adrenal fatigue. (they couldn’t find problem with knees after about $1,000.00 of medical tests that I was responsible for paying!) I can’t seem to buy the Cataplex B…from manufacturer, it is $42. for 360 pills, Amazon is charging nearly $60! Why don’t they sell these directly? I live in Oregon, the closest doctor that sells it is Washington state. Any ideas? After reading about this product, I’d like to try it, but NOT at $60.!!
Again, thank you for this detailed info, I’m trying now to follow all suggestions here.
You can only purchase Standard Process through a practitioner. Our office carries Cataplex B and we ship out orders for supplements daily. Please call Biodynamic Wellness at 858.259.6000
How do I become a member
What would you like to become a member for?
Add on comment: I feel it is frustrating that you mention products here that are unavailable to people. (the Cataplex B and the adrenal tonic).
These are fabulous supplements that you can get through a liscened practitioner. I work as a Nutritional Therapist at Biodynmaic Wellness and we can ship any of these supplements. If you give our office a call, we can give you the info to purchase them.
Thank you, Carrie! Good stuff, as always! i was wondering what you think about bee pollen for B vitamins? I like Cataplex B, but have just switched to bee pollen to change it up a bit.
I have found this article very informative and I thank you for that !!! I have been drinking
ERW water ( Electrolyzed Reduces Water) for the past 3 years and it did helped with quite a few of my problems. I ‘m just hoping that it is ok to keep drinking that ?!
How much is the Cataplex B and the adrenal tonic as well as shipping
If you send an email over to our office, we can give you that info. Email at: orders@biodynamicwellness.com
Would match green tea help or hurt?
I don’t recommend it because of the caffeine.
What is the rationale for consuming Celtic sea salt? What does it do to help adrenal function?
It contains over 80 different minerals and is very nourishing for the adrenal glands.
I find it interesting that you don’t recommend a Vitamin C supplement. Isn’t vitamin c really good for the adrenals?
I drink my homemade kombocha. I wonder if it has caffeine in it since it is made with teas that has some. I don’t drink coffee or any other caffeine products.
Any thoughts about kombucha?
It does contain a small amount of caffeine, but as long as you’re only having about 1 cup or so a day, you should be able to keep it in your diet.
Thanks Carrie
Hi,
Do you suggest low impact exercise forever? Or for a set amount of time to get the body back in order?
Depending on the client, I usually recommend they do low impact exercise for the first few months until we see their symptoms dissipate and/or we see their cortisol levels are returning back to normal via a saliva test. Then, we can start adding back some higher impact exercise, but the kind will vary on the clients health history.
Once my adrenals are healed can I ever have caffeine again?
Yes, but best to only have it on occasion and in small amounts.
I really loved this article – simple info! I always have 1 cup of green tea and 1 small block of dark chocolate. I don’t have any other caffeine products. Is this ok?
We are all biochemically individual, so it really just depends on how healthy your adrenals are and what your body is needing. In general, I don’t recommend any caffeine when adrenal imbalance present.
Thank you for the article. I’ve been fighting adrenal fatigue for a very long tine. I’ve been eating low carb and practicing intermittent fasting daily. For me the biggest takeaway that might help me is to eat more frequently and add more carbs through the day, maybe that’s the key for me. As always, thank you Carrie for sharing. ❤️
You’re welcome!
Elaine, One of the worst things you can do is fast and eat low carb if you have adrenal fatigue. A low carb diet taxes the adrenals as does fasting.
Carrie, can you use Himalayan Chrystal salt or does it have to be the Celtic salt?
I recommend Celtic sea salt.
How many times in the day does your cortisol test cover?
4x
Thank you for sharing Carrie. I went to book an appointment and realized that you are in Canada and I live in Australia.. what a shame!
I work with all clients long-distance and in fact, I have a client in Australia! 🙂
Do you provide a complete thyroid panel like TSH, TPO, reverse T3 , T4 etc??? If so how much is it and do you treat hypothyroidism holistically?
Yes, our office can order those labs. We do not treat diseases, but give you a nutritional therapy protocol that includes diet, supplements, gentle detox, etc. to support the body and help bring it into balance.
If you’d like info on pricing and such, please give the office a call: Biodynamic Wellness 858.259.6000
WOW , a really reeeaally good read .. Every word I can relate too . It so makes sense & I just don’t understand why this is never even brought up as even a ‘Maybe’ this is what you are suffering with From our doctors . I have been sick & unwell for just over 18 months now . I’ve had blood test that come back as normal & going to the doctors is just a complete waste of time .. The nausea I have everyday is so servere that I’ve often thought about ending my life . I body feels like I’m poisoned . I live in the UK & I’m so greatful to have stumbled across you & this information . It makes total sense THANK YOU
I’m so glad you found this info helpful. There are so many things you can do naturally to reduce symptoms and feel better. If you get the point of wanting to end your life because the pain is so bad, please reach out to someone for help. I work with all clients long-distance, so if you need personalized help, please send an email to our office to set up a consult. We just started a very economical option that might work well for your situation (since you’re in the UK). You can check out the details here: https://deliciouslyorganic.net/lab-work-analysis-package/
Hello Carrie,
So grateful I found you first on Instagram. I’ve shared you with so many people. You are a very gifted person. Thank you for sharing with all of us. I go both ways with the adrenal’s. Twice now I’ve had my adrenal’s stuck in high all day. Like clock work they would go down around 4:00 pm each day. The days were a night mare. Frightening. What do you suggest for me to do please?
I’m glad you’ve found the info so helpful! I suggest eating the way I describe in the article above for at least 6 weeks, along with using the butter mints and taking steps to reduce your stress.
Where do you purchase the butter mints? Or is there a recipe? I didn’t see it in the article. Thank you!
The recipe is linked in the article above.
Great information, thank you! I have the majority of these symptoms but not all and I’ve been struggling with Hypothyroid for several years. I went undiagnosed for awhile as my TSH was in normal ranges although still suffering symptoms. My vitamin D levels tanked and I got very sick and finally diagnosed. They’ve not tested for everything as it’s conventional medicine, I request testing but they say I’m in range. The issue is that I’m still sick! I cannot lose weight, feel as if I’m always in flight or fight mode, losing hair, puffy face, inflamed, tired & depressed with no real interest in doing things anymore. I know you cannot diagnose but could the adrenal steps help with all of this or do I need to dig deeper? I read everything and it’s overwhelming, I’m going gluten, grain and dairy free in hopes that will reduce inflammation so I can heal. I’m just lost and everything is expensive, it’s a shame my medical doctor won’t help me the way a functional medical doctor will. Any advice on where to start and help myself get back to feeling good other than what I’m doing in addition to the list? Thanks!
If you’d like further help, I recommend booking a Lab Analysis service with me. You send in your labs and paperwork that the office sends over to you, and then I write up a 3-month protocol that includes diet, supplements, detox/drainage therapies, lifestyle change recommendations, etc. It’s a great way to get some one-on-one help at a reduced price. 🙂 Here’s info: https://www.biodynamicwellness.com/lab-work-analysis/
Several months after reading this for the first time and writing in, (2017) I was diagnosed as having acquired type 2 diabetes. Short story, I am NOT taking meds to control my blood sugar, but am using the Keto diet. I know that in other blogs you have written against this diet, but it is the ONLY way right now that I have to control my glucose levels. It is working. I am hoping that after a year or so, I can return to eating small amounts occasionally of root vegetables and other healthy carb heavy foods, but just not until (hopefully) my body begins to process insulin correctly. I believe I also have an adrenal issue. Unfortunately, most of the suggestions here go against my diet restrictions. Any other ideas? Once some financial issues are cleared up, I may contact you for further help, but that may be some time.
I believe I have a few things going on. Adrenal Fatigue, Chronic Fatigue, Hypothyroidism, etc… I have factor 5 (V) and I am anemic as far as I’ve been told. I’m curious what your thoughts are about always being hungry? Is this a symptom of these items (all the fatigues and the hypothyroidism?
My hunger never stops. Ever. If I can get these things all back on track would this then clear up too? Thanks…. great info. Love the blog.
Have you been tested recently? Often when the body is in a hyperthyroid state (and the body can swing from hypo to hyper) that’s when you’ll experience never ending hunger.
I’ve had Hashimoto’s since 2007. I was diagnosed with adrenal fatigue about 4 years ago. I’ve struggled with feeling better and losing weight. But, my cortisol levels tanked to 0.06. I had to be on steroids for 4 months and I have vowed never to do that again. I do take an adrenal supplement, but my question is do all your recommendations help with lowered cortisol too? Because my adrenal system has already gone past the elevated stage and is failing.
I have adrenal, thyroid and now also blood sugar issues. In order to keep my blood sugar in the zone, I have to stop eating all carbs and starches. Even root veggies and beans raise numbers too high. This corrects my blood but is killing my adrenals – aching back, body inflammation, and likely tanking my thyroid. Also excerise – brisk walking lowers my blood sugar but exhausts me and makes my temperAture drop instead of raise. Many adrenal tonics do not work as for example licorice is too invigorating for me.
Help!!! Should I go on the diabetes meds to keep my adrenals and thyroid happy?
I have the SAME problems! And a horrible digestive system with too many intolerances to name! Histamine so no ferments. And on and on. Spent 30 grand with a naturopath who basically pushed my body so far so fast im so much worse off before I went to see her. I too like standard process. But was given about three or more handfuls a day to take at about the cost of 800$ every couple of weeks! Im completely lost and broke now! Im starving too! I’d eat whatever my body will allow. The ONLY thing that does seem to calm my adrenal and give a tiny bit of strength is sprouted quick oats and because of the graves disease it causes immense water retention. Dr’s are my only hope at this point. They weren’t before and thats why I saw the NP. But now what do I do? No one in the natural medicine community will say that YES!, you should go on meds for abit to calm things! I used to have a higher level of tolerance to many things. That was pre 5 liver cleanses and parasite detoxification and on and on. I would do anything that seemed like I was being taken into consideration!
I’m so sorry you are struggling. The info in this article might help:https://deliciouslyorganic.net/graves-disease-the-cause-symptoms-labs-and-first-steps-to-take/
Medication can be a very helpful tool to use alongside diet, sleep, stress reduction, supplements, etc. so it’s definitely something to talk to you doctor about! 🙂
That part at the end where you said that it’s okay to take a day to rest honestly made me tear up. I’ve been dealing with Hashimoto’s for about a year now. I got really sick with mono and never fully recovered, and struggled so much with the whole concept of going easy on my body. I just wanted to get up and go and I couldn’t. My doctor put me on some supplements and changed my diet, but I haven’t exactly known why. Your writing is really insightful and I appreciate knowing the science behind all of this. Thanks for sharing!
You’re welcome. 🙂 Hang in there!
What do you think about homeopathic cell salts like Bioplasma vs. Celtic sea salt.
Cell salts are different than Celtic sea salt, so you can’t really compare the two.
Hi Carrie, I just find your site and read about your story. I am now 21 and I was diagnosed with both Hashimoto’s disease and Addison’s disease when i was 17. Since then every morning I am taking pills for both of my diseases. It was hard for me to accept it first but I became used to it and gave up on myself eventually. Here in Italy i visited 5 different doctors and all day say is that i could already be dead and i should be happy to take my pills. I was skinny and beautiful but now i have a puffy face and so as you may already know. Do you think is it also possible for me to heal ? thank you so much for giving me hope.
I’m so glad you found my site! It’s hard to say what your outcome could be, but I’m confident there are things you can do to reduce your symptoms, help balance your hormones, and start to feel normal again! I’ve seen it time and time again with my clients and those who are in my online thyroid course. I recommend taking this free online class as it will give you some first steps to take: https://deliciouslyorganic.net/thyroid-disease-masterclass
So, I know the easiest answer would be to change work schedules, but at this time, my sons and I have varied work schedules causing for later dinner times and scattered meals times throughout the day. I am just starting my journey with thyroid disease, officially diagnosed, finally and meds (which sucks by the way) but now that I am learning, I am realizing that my mom also exhibits signs of the disease, (which she refuses to acknowledge) so with my sons, ( ages 22 and 19) I am trying to stress the importance of better care now, so they don’t end up like me and my mother later in life. I keep expressing planning meals and setting alarms for sleep times, in order to get enough etc.
Are these good ideas? (for now) and is the focus on a schedule that matches the guidelines given here, a decent start until work life can get to a more normalized state?
I really hope my question makes sense, I tend to ramble, mostly because I am still in the phase of no one listens to my concerns about my health and even some of the difficulties in health and sleep that I already observe in my sons. I just want us to be health again and for them to live a better later life than I currently am. (although I am working my way to getting better, now)
Thank you for your time and information
Hello, Carrie! Could you please explain how adrenal fatigue causes difficulty maintaining chiropractic adjustments?
Hi there! Does an elevated Rt3 (41) mean adrenal fatigue? I just received that result in my bloodwork and trying to read up on how to resolve this. Would love to see if your office would be a good fit to help me!
Legally, I can’t analyze labs unless you’re a client. I’d give our office a call to set up a Lab Analysis.
Hi, I scrolled through the comments, and found many useful topics, but I didn’t see any about vegetarians. Do you have diet protocols for vegetarians? I’ve been vegetarian for a long time, and don’t wish to change that. Thanks, your information is great.
I don’t have any specific info for vegetarians and adrenal fatigue. Foods like: butter, cultured dairy, eggs, etc. are all wonderful to eat alongside the many vegetables and fruits available to nourish the body.
My girlfriend has been suffering from these issues for several decades. It took me a while to pinpoint her issues to adrenal fatigue. I noticed you recommend Standard Process Cataplex B, but what about their Adrenal Complex? One or the other, or both?
Some people can benefit from Adrenal Complex and some don’t, so it’s best to talk to your practitioner about the supplements that are best for your situation.
Hello – can you tell me where your training was from? I want to contact my insurance company here in Canada to see if they would cover the consult? thanks
We are a nutrition practice and cannot file with insurance. We can charge HSA accounts. Here is our website: http://www.biodynamicwellness.com
The link for sign up to take free online masterclass titled, “Essential Oils for Adrenal Fatigue” leads to “reserve my spot page,” but it does not work. Can you give a updated link please?
I just checked it and it’s working, so I’m not sure what the issue is. What browser are you using?
Good morning. Is it ok to use Himalayan salt instead of Celtic salt. I am not sure what is the difference. Thanks!
Hi Carrie,
Doing research about symptoms I have developed after a very stressed situation it seems I may be dealing with Adrenal Fatigue Syndrome. It has been 4 months already and each day I m feeling better. Is Hot Yoga, 105 degrees for 60 minutes, considered intense? Ive been practicing for the last 20 years and never had problem. In fact, It has helped me to overcome anxiety and sleep issues since the stressful event. Should I stop practicing?
Thank you so much for your input!
Carla
Yes, hot yoga for an hour is considered intense exercise when one has adrenal fatigue. I can’t say if you should stop, but it could be helpful to try doing 30 minute sessions, or adding some other variety and seeing if you notice any changes.
I have all the symptoms of adrenal fatigue for 6 years and recently they found a mass on my adrenal gland. I have been on supplements and have gotten some of my life back but I’m still tired and have my off days where I feel like my body is shutting down.
My blood work come out in the normal range. How could that be? Very frustrated with the medical realm.
Dear Carrie,
In step 9 you recommend avoiding low carb diets but in the article about your journey reversing Hashimoto’s diseased, you talk about how a gluten-free and grain-free diet helped you achieve your goal.
So could you please explain the difference and how both recommandations apply for someone diagnosed with Hashimoto’s disease ( i am new to this journey, i have just been diagnosed with Hashimoto’s disease, I follow 80% of the time a gluten-free diet, but I am not sure if I should stop and include complexe carbs into my diet to balance my adrenal fatigue or continue my gluten free diet)?
Thanks a lot for your help and much-appreciated advice
While I avoided grains, I ate foods like vegetables, soaked legumes and lentils, root vegetables, berries, etc. for my carbohydrates. When grain-free, it can be helpful to track your food on an app like MyFitnessPal or something similar so you can makes sure you are eating enough carbs.
Hi Carrie
I couldn’t have found your article t. Better time. I was tested back summer 2018 and my naturopath said I have adrenal fatigue as well my cortisol is off. I got pregnant just after and now 7 months postpartum the past 3 weeks I’m suffering from very low blood pressure usually 100/60, or lower some days. I’m struggling and don’t feel myself. With major fatigue, dizzy it’s taking a toll. Your check list rye start I check off all but 2. I just had blood work be again and the naturopath says everything looks ok except my antibodies are high. She’ says my adrenal fatigue is causing my issues. I love the list your gown of steps to follow, I’m going to print it off and really follow it closely. I was curious n your take for a new mama again trying to loose baby weight, I’ve been following weight watchers and doing isagenix shakes also. How do you suggest mamas loose baby weight while suffering from adrenal fatigue? After reading your blog I almost feel like weight watchers is god but I wonder if at it’s the right way? Do you have any blogs on loosing weight for adrenals? Thank you!!
It’s very, very difficult to lose weight when there is adrenal fatigue because the stress the body is under creates hormone imbalance and the body doesn’t usually think it’s “safe” to lose weight. I recommend taking some time to balance the adrenals first, and then once they are strong again, then work on the weight loss. Oftentimes, women will see weight loss as a result of balancing the adrenals without even having to implement anything additional.
Doesn’t that sound like modern life???
It does!
Thank you for this! I developed acute insomnia 5 weeks ago and really think it’s related to my adrenal glands and fatigue. I will follow your advice as I’ve added magnesium, l-theanine, ashwargha.. Do you have any suggestions on how to get sleep? I’m feeling exhausted but my mind (likely to a cortisol surge) is not relaxing to allow sleep to prevail. Any help is welcomed.
My article about how to cure insomnia naturally would be helpful!
Hi Carrie,
Your site is so helpful, thank you so much!! I recently burn out big time from work and all my symptoms lead me to adrenal fatigue, including hyperpigmentation on my face which I am finding incredibly distressing. I was wondering, is this adrenal related? And do you know if it’s possible to reverse this through dietary changes/would you recommend any supplements for this?
Thank you, Morag
I’m not sure why that is happening for you, but stress can do all sorts of things to the body, so it’s definitely something to talk to your practitioner about!
Does anyone do a diet for hypothyroidism for vegans?
There are various nutrients that the endocrine system needs that cannot be found in plants, so I don’t promote a Vegan diet for thyroid disease. You’re welcome to use the plans I have laid out and then adjust them according to how you’d prefer to eat.
Hello Carrie,
I found your suggestions for eating for the thyroid (hypo in my case) and adrenals very helpful but after spring have had a hard time sticking with it. Do you have suggestions for coming down from overeating (raw apples, coconut flakes, olive oil for example in addition to some veggies/meat)…also 3 years into menopause. Thank you very much.
Legally, I can’t give personalized health advice unless you’re a client. I recommend talking to your practitioner.
Are you taking new clients?
Yes! If you live in the Dallas area, please contact Our Well House to book a consult.
There is NOTHING natural about eating dead bodies. The minute you mentioned fish I knew you have no idea what you are talking about. Please do not use the word ‘ naturally ‘ and go vegan. You need to wake up to a world free of pain, ailments and stupidity
I do understand what I’m talking about, but see that you have a difference of opinion. Have a great day!
Thank you so much for all that you have created for the world… You truly inspire and bring hope.
Thank you! 🙂
Firstly as a web developer your whole website is fantastic! Secondly I could cry the amount of free information you are helping us with 🤍 o am hypo thyroid and know I have a gut issue but also had vertigo after the stress of a missed miscarriage and since then bounced between doctors here in Canada that can’t be held accountable so I get the runaround. I can implement these things you list and in fact my body is craving for them all. Your vegetable purée soup is wow 🤩 I am faithfully reading and learning thank you so much for all of your work 🌸🤍🌸🤍✨
I’m so glad you’re finding the info helpful! 🙂
Hi –
Taking Celtic sea salt would not be good for those with hyperthyroid, correct?
Thank you.
It doesn’t contain enough naturally occurring iodine to be much of a concern. Of course, always talk to your practitioner about what’s best for you.
Do you know of any meal delivery service that is good for this? (Helping to cure hyupothyroidism)
I am surprised you are advocating animal proteins for people with renal fatigue. Wouldn’t plant based proteins be better, less inflammatory and putting less stress on the kidney to wash out the “ash” that broken down cells leave behind. At the same time you would be getting considerably more fiber into the diet.
I know many people do not care about the animal treatment or environmental issues that producing and eating animals brings, but I would have thought your first stop would be plant proteins on health related grounds, rather than animal ones?
This article is about the adrenals, not the kidneys.
Hey, I’ve been following your blog for years and I appreciate it:) I’m wondering what you think about 3 min cold showers and adrenal issues? I haven’t been able to find anything that says it’s good for adrenals or that it’s contraindicated either. I’m not trying to go full Wim Hof or anything but am having adrenal issues and want to be cautious while still practicing a little bit of cold water therapy.
Cool showers can be helpful, but doing anything that is going to stress the body, like extreme cold, isn’t a great idea until the adrenals are more balanced.
I know you mention removing grains, gluten, and processed foods from your diet, but what about diary? I have Hashimoto and have been advised to remove dairy among other things. Is the only good dairy to eat with Hashimoto raw dairy?
Unless one has a diary allergy, then raw or cultured dairy can be a part of a thyroid and immune system healing diet
Thank you for breaking down adrenal recovery into actionable, everyday steps—this definitely makes the topic more approachable. I particularly liked the suggestion to ‘honour your body’s need to slow down’—so many posts skip that. The idea of combining rest with nutrient-rich foods really resonates with holistic living. Much appreciated!