Adrenal Cocktails: Simple yet life changing

Jessica Hendriks
Feb 8
2 min read

The topic of adrenal fatigue is well debated in the literature. The term refers to a chronic exposure to stress which leaves the adrenals (small hormonal glands that live above the kidney) at low performance. The term is commonly used in the health space, with a 2016 systematic review (1) reporting that there is no solid evidence that such a condition actually exists.

However, clinically, many practitioners are starting to see a pattern emerging. Dr James L Wilson is one particular integrative doctor who has published such a clinical perspective and describes adrenal fatigue as a 'common stress-related disorder in which the symptoms are strongly influenced by circulating cortisol levels' (2).

What is cortisol you ask? Commonly known as 'stress hormone' cortisol is an important messenger in the body that is released as a result of stress. This stress maybe chemical, physical, emotional or even imagined (2). When such stress impacts the body, the brain signals cortisol to be released from the adrenal glands. The theory around adrenal fatigue is that the glands eventually do not produce enough cortisol to respond adequately to stress and this leaves the person unusually tired with a plethora of other possible symptoms including brain fog, poor mood, poor motivation and general feeling unwell.

Along comes the adrenal cocktail, which typically contains potassium, sodium and vitamin C which are thought to support the adrenal glands. Is there evidence to support that this drink changes fatigue symptoms? In short, no. However, sodium and potassium are 2 of the first 4 minerals that are depleted in response to stress. Chronic stress will make it difficult to retain and maintain these minerals. Will it hurt to try? If you are generally healthy, probably not, it is always worth speaking to your doctor. If you are suffering from kidney issues, heart issues or diabetes, or any other significant health condition it may harm, and your issues are likely beyond a drink like this being beneficial anyway.

I drink adrenal cocktails every day because my hair test revealed low levels and that my body is in a state of chronic stress. (If you are wondering what a hair test is check out the blog list for more details). Getting enough potassium to support this deficit is difficult for me, so this drink is an easy way to give my body what it needs on the daily.

If you need guidance on whether this is a good option for you, or you would like help you organise and interpret a hair test, reach out!