Re: Hypoglycemia and Adrenal Fatigue- Which of the two is the Primary Problem?
There are different forms of hypoglycemia. Acute or reactive hypoglycemia occurs after eating. The blood sugar spikes leading to a surge of insulin and a rebound dropping of blood sugar. This is a problem of chromium deficiency. The other form is chronic hypoglycemia, which is an adrenal problem. When the blood sugar drops sufficiently the adrenal glands will release cortisol, which in turn releases stored glycogen from the liver restoring normal blood sugar levels. If the adrenal glands are slow to respond a hypoglycemic reaction occurs. So the problem lies with the adrenal glands.
Building up the adrenal glands can be accomplished with vitamin C (natural sources preferred), the B vitamin pantothenic acid, and adaptogenic herbs. Adaptogenic herbs include schisandra berry, ashwagandha, licorice root, Siberian ginseng, jiaogulan, and astragalus. Nettle leaf is not classified as an adaptogen, but it is still an excellent herb for the adrenals. It is also a good source of chromium and protein, which both help in stabilizing the blood sugar.
You should also avoid stimulants like caffeine and nicotine, pharmaceutical steroids, and keep your stress levels to a minimum as these all adversely affect the adrenals.