Always eat a healthy breakfast. This includes protein but void of
refined carbohydrates. An egg-based meal can be the cornerstone of
an ideal breakfast.
People with adrenal stress often need to snack between the three
main meals, even every two hours in the early stages of recovery.
Healthy snacking habits were discussed in Chapter 20. Low-carbohy-
drate snacks include almonds and cashews, cheese, vegetables and
hard-boiled eggs. Avoid fruit juice.
Nutrients for Adrenal Stress
Your nutritional needs may vary with adrenal stress. These include
factors to help the immune system, gut and the adrenal glands them-
selves. Since the hormonal system is very complex, it’s recommended
that you seek the input of a health-care professional to correct a hor-
monal imbalance. Below are some possible supplemental nutrient
needs:
- For many types of adrenal stress, especially those that
cause insomnia, zinc may be useful. Studies show this
important mineral can help lower high cortisol levels that
accompany adrenal stress. Taken right before bed, for
example, zinc may improve sleep patterns. A metallic
taste in your mouth may mean that you’re taking too
much zinc, so be careful with zinc supplementation. - Choline is a nutrient commonly needed by some people
with adrenal stress, in part due to the relationship of
choline with the nervous system. Individuals who are
always on the go, overworked and trying to do too much
are examples of those who may benefit from choline.
Small amounts several times a day may be very helpful.
The best source of choline in the diet is egg yolks. Those
with asthma symptoms generally need even more
choline. - Intestinal dysfunction almost always accompanies adre-
nal stress. This issue is discussed in Chapter 29.
298 • IN FITNESS AND IN HEALTH