Our bodies adapt to any form of stress (from training, school, family-life, work, etc.) by increasing the production of cortisol. Similar to your detoxification system, if your adrenal glands are working properly and in concert with your other hormone systems (thyroid and adrenals), you can handle and respond to the stress. However, if your cortisol levels increase too much and you are not able to clear it, this will lead to adrenal dysfunction and ultimately underperformance.
Symptoms of adrenal dysfunction in athletes
- Cravings
- poor sleep
- wired but tired
- elevated morning heart rate
- underperformance
- weight gain/loss
- new food intolerances
- recurrent viral infections
- joint pain
- puffy under the eyes