There is little said about the adrenal gland and the adrenal system. The adrenals sit on the top of our kidneys and regulate a whole host of functions.  The most recognisable are those associated with the “flight or fight” system.  When we are startled, our bodies produce a stimulating hormone - adrenaline - that courses rapidly through our system to prepare us to either fend off an invasion - or run from it.  The adrenal system is responsible for producing and releasing this important hormone.  Without adrenaline it is possible that the human race would have become extinct thousands of years ago. 

Our adrenals produce other hormones, but adrenaline is still one of the most important.  We may never need to defend ourselves in battle, however, every day presents its own set of potential attacks.  Someone cuts us off in traffic and we’re instantly ready to “do battle” - that’s adrenaline.  We may be nervous about a presentation we need to make.  We know that we won’t run from the podium but we’re ready to do it, just because the adrenaline released by our adrenals makes us ready. 

The adrenals also produce cortisol - an natural anti-inflammatory agent that helps relieve our routine aches and pains. Cortisol is another hormone that is produced in the adrenals from hormone precursors - all the way back to the most important hormone - cholesterol.

Like most things, if you overuse or stress the adrenal system too often for too many years it begins to malfunction, producing less and less of the important hormones we need. This is referred to as adrenal distress. Sometimes it can be treated with supplements and removal of stress.  Our adrenals are important.  And, they can be harmed if we aren’t careful. Our job here is to offer help in dealing with adrenal problems. One great resource we call upon often is a book by James L. Wilson titled,“Adrenal Fatigue: The 21st-Century Stress Syndrome.” The book is clear and easy to read.  It is full of great suggestions for maintaining our adrenal health. We think that everyone should to read this book and do what it suggests. A healthy adrenal system makes life more enjoyable.