Natural Support for HPA Axis Dysregulation

The HPA Axis is comprised of the hypothalamus, pituitary and adrenal glands. Together, they work perfectly to respond quickly and efficiently to acute temporary stressors that our ancestors may have faced.

BUT THE HPA AXIS ISN'T BUILT TO DEAL WITH MODERN CHRONIC STRESS. 

As it struggles to deal with this constant pressure, it can fall in to HPA Axis Dysfunction.  Until recently, this was called Adrenal Fatigue or Adrenal Exhaustion, but the latest scientific understanding of what's actually happens in the body has evolved. In this situation, the HPA Axis fails to effectively regulate the production of hormones and downstream systems such as the gut and the brain also suffer the repercussions of this.

Initially, this can manifest itself in the form of elevated cortisol, but eventually this turns into low cortisol and low levels of most other hormones. It can also significantly change one's levels of neurotransmitters.

STEPS TO REBUILD YOUR HPA AXIS

The first step to rebuilding is to get rid of stress in your life when possible. Naturally this isn't always possible, so you'll also want to harness the power of adaptogens to improve your stress resilience, such as holy basil, ashwagandha, rhodiola and Siberian ginseng.

SIMPLE AND DELICIOUS WAYS TO RECHARGE YOUR SYSTEM

In the Taoist herbal system, the health of the HPA Axis is referred to as Jing. In our Recharge Chocolate, we feature 6 of the greatest Jing supportive herbs- He Shou Wu, Cordyceps, Eucommia, Cistanche, Morinda & Rehmannia. 

Black foods are also known for their Jing supportive properties, so enjoy black rice, black sesame, black tahini, black beans, etc.

From a dietary perspective, avoid processed foods and high glycemic carbs, as these will just place more stress on the body.  This is also not the time to be counting calories. Make sure to include nutrient dense carbs like sweet potatoes, squash, plantains, cassava, taro and whole fruits.

SUPPLEMENTS THAT CAN HELP YOU

From a supplementary perspective, magnesium is a real superhero here. Magnesium glycinate and magnesium l-threonate are two of the best forms to look for. This mineral can help to normalize HPA axis function by supporting catecholamine metabolism.

Vitamin C, long chain Omega-3s, Zinc, electrolytes, and L-Theanine can also be very helpful.

STEPS TO REBUILD YOUR HPA AXIS

The gut also has a tremendous impact on our overall health and stress resilience, so working on improving gut health during this time with a varied diet of gut friendly foods along with high quality probiotics and prebiotics is a great idea.

DON'T FORGET TO BE PATIENT WITH YOURSELF

Keep in mind that it took you many months (probably even many years) of chronic stress to get to this place, so there's not going to be a sustainable overnight fix. But by pulling together all the tools, you can work towards feeling better and better every day!