Addressing The Adrenal Fatigue Thyroid Connection: For Improved Blood Sugar and Hormones

Adrenal Fatigue Thyroid Connection

By Jennifer Smith, Natural Medicine Practitioner and Certified in Holistic Nutrition

*This page may contain affiliate links. Click here to read my affiliate policy.

In the following article discussing the adrenal fatigue thyroid connection, we will be connecting the dots between what is falsely called “adrenal fatigue” and how the thyroid is responsible for the symptoms. The concept of "adrenal fatigue" has been popularized as a standalone condition, but evidence suggests that it’s more accurately a symptom of low thyroid hormone (T3) levels.

When thyroid function is compromised, the body tends to overwork the adrenal glands, initiating a harmful cycle where reduced thyroid hormone levels further strain the adrenal glands. The truth is, your adrenal glands aren’t "fatigued"; they are simply responding to the demands of a struggling thyroid.

The Adrenal Fatigue Thyroid Connection

The thyroid gland, located in the neck, produces hormones that regulate the body's metabolism, energy levels, and overall homeostasis. When the thyroid is not functioning properly, it can lead to a cascade of problems throughout the body. One of the key hormones produced by the thyroid is triiodothyronine (T3), which plays a crucial role in maintaining energy levels and metabolic rate.

When thyroid hormone levels are low, the body compensates by overproducing cortisol, a stress hormone produced by the adrenal glands. This overproduction of cortisol is the body's attempt to maintain energy levels and cope with the stress of low thyroid function. However, this creates a vicious cycle: as cortisol levels rise, they further suppress thyroid function, leading to even lower levels of thyroid hormone and increased demand on the adrenal glands. Over time, this constant strain can make the symptoms of so-called "adrenal fatigue" more pronounced, including fatigue, irritability, and difficulty managing stress.

In the short video below, Dr. Ray Peat explains the essential raw materials for maintaining healthy adrenal function, including cholesterol, vitamin A, thyroid hormone, and a pro-metabolic diet rich in fruit and milk.

Misguided Treatments for "Adrenal Fatigue"

Common treatments for what is termed "adrenal fatigue," such as reducing carbohydrate intake and supplementing with cortisol, can actually worsen the problem. Lowering carbohydrate intake further suppresses thyroid function, as the body needs a steady supply of glucose to produce energy and maintain hormonal balance. This is because carbohydrates are a primary source of glucose, which is essential for the production of thyroid hormones. When carbohydrate intake is reduced, the body struggles to produce enough glucose, leading to further suppression of thyroid function and increased strain on the adrenal glands.

Similarly, cortisol supplements may temporarily elevate cortisol levels but do not address the underlying thyroid dysfunction. While cortisol supplements might provide short-term relief by boosting cortisol levels, they do not fix the root cause of the problem, which is low thyroid hormone levels. In fact, relying on cortisol supplements can lead to a dependency on external sources of cortisol, further exacerbating the imbalance and preventing the body from naturally regulating hormone levels.

Effective Strategies for Restoring Adrenal Health

Adrenal Fatigue Thyroid Connection2

To genuinely address the issues attributed to adrenal fatigue thyroid issues, it's essential to focus on improving adrenal by focusing on thyroid function.

Here are some strategies to address adrenal fatigue thyroid issues:

1. Regulating Blood Sugar: Consuming fruits and healthy carbohydrate sources such as natural sugars can help stabilize blood sugar levels and support thyroid health. Balanced blood sugar is crucial for maintaining energy and hormone production. Foods rich in natural sugars, like fruits, pulp-free orange juice, maple syrup, and honey, provide a steady source of fructose that supports thyroid function and overall metabolic health. Consuming a balance of healthy fats (coconut oil or butter), proteins and carbs at every meal and snack can help to reduce spikes in blood sugar and insulin. Eating small meals every 2-3 hours can help to improve blood sugar and reduce quick blood sugar drops from protein or carbs alone. 

2. Reducing Serotonin and Estrogen Levels: Elevated serotonin and estrogen can interfere with thyroid function. High levels of serotonin and estrogen can create an environment that suppresses the thyroid gland, leading to lower production of thyroid hormones. Avoiding foods that increase these hormones and managing stress can help in keeping their levels in check. For example, reducing the intake of foods that are high in phytoestrogens, such as soy products and seeds, can help lower estrogen levels. Supplementing with progesterone, calcium d-glucarate can help reduce excess estrogen and help re-balance hormones. A raw carrot salad, made with coconut oil, shredded carrots, and apple cider vinegar, can help to detoxify excess estrogen.  Additionally, practicing stress management techniques can help regulate serotonin levels and improve overall thyroid function.

3. Avoiding Polyunsaturated Fats: Polyunsaturated fats (PUFAs) can negatively impact thyroid function. PUFAs, found in many processed foods and vegetable oils and seed oils, can interfere with the production and utilization of thyroid hormones. Instead, opt for saturated fats like coconut oil, butter or ghee, which support thyroid health. Saturated fats provide a stable source of energy and do not interfere with thyroid hormone production, making them a better choice for those looking to improve thyroid function.

4. Careful Thyroid Hormone Supplementation: For some individuals, supplementing with natural desiccated thyroid can help restore balance. It’s important to do this carefully to avoid overstimulation of the adrenal glands. Thyroid hormone supplementation should be tailored to the individual's needs and monitored by your practitioner to ensure that hormone levels are balanced and that the body is responding appropriately.

Adrenal Fatigue Thyroid Connection3

By shifting the focus from addressing adrenal fatigue as an isolated condition to addressing thyroid health, it’s possible to break the cycle of hormonal imbalances and improve overall well-being. Prioritizing thyroid function can lead to better blood sugar regulation, balanced hormone levels, and a rejuvenated sense of energy and vitality. Recognizing the interconnectedness of the thyroid and adrenal glands allows for a more comprehensive approach to health, addressing the root cause of the symptoms rather than merely treating the symptoms themselves.

Ultimately, a functional approach that includes a pro-metabolic diet, stress management, and careful hormone supplementation can provide lasting improvements in thyroid function and overall health. By focusing on the underlying thyroid issues, individuals can experience a significant improvement in their quality of life, with better energy levels, mood, and overall well-being. Taking the time to understand and address the root causes of hormonal imbalances can lead to more effective and sustainable health outcomes.

Take the First Step Towards Better Health

If you're struggling with symptoms that you suspect are related to thyroid or adrenal issues, it's essential to seek professional guidance. At our functional medicine clinic, we specialize in identifying and treating the root causes of hormonal imbalances. We offer a comprehensive approach that includes personalized dietary recommendations, stress management techniques, and tailored thyroid hormone supplementation.

We invite you to book a free discovery call with our experienced practitioners. During this call, we will discuss your symptoms, medical history, and health goals to create a personalized plan that addresses your unique needs. Take the first step towards better health and balanced hormones by reaching out to us today. Your journey to improved well-being starts with a simple conversation.

About the Practitioner

Jennifer Smith, BA, NMP, CHN, FBCC

Jennifer Smith is a Natural Medicine Practitioner, Holistic Nutrition Practitioner, and Faith-Based Clinical Counselor. She has a Bachelor's degree in Christian Counseling. She has completed advanced training in Functional Nutrition, Functional Medicine, Natural Health Consultant diploma, Biblical Heath Coaching Certification, Biblical natural medicine, and Biblical Eating and Clinical Nutrition. Jennifer has a virtual Natural Medicine practice in Naples, FL called Fx Remedies Virtual Care. 

Learn more . . .

Looking for a Natural Medicine Practitioner to Empower Your Health Journey?

Unlock Your Health Potential with Simple At-Home Tests 🌿

Feeling disconnected from your body? It's time to take charge of your health and discover the secrets of your physiology with our natural medicine clinic!

Why Choose Our Natural Medicine Services?

🔹 Personalized Insights: Our at-home self-tests and Functional Wellness Report provide a clear blueprint for improving your health with tailored solutions just for you.

🔹 Empowerment and Education: Our experienced practitioners guide you in understanding and optimizing your body's natural processes, leading to improved well-being and vitality.

🔹 Exclusive Membership Benefits: Join our Fx Remedies Virtual Care membership to access personalized consultations, custom protocols, educational resources and ongoing support.

🔹 Holistic Approach for Every Woman: We believe every woman deserves to feel empowered and in control of her health journey. Whether you're dealing with hormonal imbalances, digestive issues, blood sugar imbalances or seeking overall vitality, our services are designed to meet your unique health improvement needs.

🔹 Transformative Journey: Prioritize your well-being today. Join our Virtual Care membership and embark on a journey toward better health. Together, we can unlock the secrets to a healthier, more vibrant life.

Take the First Step:

Don't wait any longer to prioritize your health. Join us now and embrace a natural, holistic, functional approach to wellness. Our natural medicine clinic offers virtual telehealth services to clients in Naples, across Florida, throughout the United States, and internationally.

Sign up today!


Let's Be Friends