What leads to adrenal exhaustion?

Constant and excessive stimulation of the body — whether from caffeine in coffee and tea or physical exertion — can lead to so-called adrenal exhaustion (adrenal dysfunction), especially in conditions of chronic stress and lack of restorative resources.

The Adrenals and Their Role

The adrenals are paired endocrine glands located above the kidneys. They produce a number of essential hormones, including:

• Cortisol — the main hormone that maintains homeostasis during stress.
• Adrenaline and noradrenaline — hormones that provide an immediate response to stress (the "fight or flight" system).
• Aldosterone — regulates water-salt balance.
• Sex hormones (to a lesser extent).

The Mechanism of Exhaustion: How It Happens

Coffee and Tea. Caffeine stimulates the nervous system, causing the release of adrenaline and cortisol. With moderate consumption, the body adapts, but with regular and high intake:

• The adrenals operate in a state of constant anxiety,
• Cortisol initially rises, then — becomes depleted,
• The daily rhythm of cortisol is disrupted: in the morning it may be insufficient, while in the evening — excessive.

Intensive Workouts. Physical exertion is also a stress for the body. During workouts:

• Cortisol levels rise,
• There is an increase in the consumption of magnesium, B vitamins, and electrolytes,
• The sympathetic nervous system is activated, and the body enters "combat mode".

If the body is not given time to recover (sleep, nutrition, rest), the adrenals begin to work to exhaustion.

Additional Risk Factors:

• Deficiency of magnesium, potassium, B vitamins, vitamin C, and cholesterol — all of which are necessary for cortisol synthesis.
• Chronic undernourishment or low-carbohydrate diets without sufficient fats.
• Lack of quality sleep and restorative phases.

Consequences of Chronic Stimulation

When the adrenals work without rest, the following occurs:

• Decreased cortisol production — a person feels tired, especially in the mornings;
• Disruption of carbohydrate metabolism — cravings for sweets, sugar spikes;
• Lowered blood pressure;
• Increased sensitivity to stress — anxiety, irritability;
• Sleep disturbances — difficulty falling asleep, waking up at night.