HPA Axis Support

Successfully supporting adrenal repair requires following an individualized program that combines oral supplements, nutritive protocols and stress-reducing lifestyle modifications. While full recovery is usually attainable, HPA axis dysfunction typically evolves over months to years and, as such, treatment time frequently lasts several months with some individuals requiring
life-long support.

When developing a treatment plan, use salivary cortisol testing to phase HPA axis dysfunction and direct treatment, choosing from the following options:

Support for Early, Evolving and Established HPA Axis Dysfunction:

Treatment Options
Adrenal Glandular — Dosed in the morning and mid-day
Herbal Adaptogens — Dosed in the morning and mid-day

Support for Established HPA Axis Dysfunction:

Treatment Options
Cortisol 5 – 10 mg immediately upon waking, 5 – 10 mg at noon
Note: Cortisol supplementation should be limited to 20 mg/day or less to avoid suppression of endogenous cortisol production.

Support for Elevated Cortisol Levels:

Treatment Options

Phosphorylated Serine

100 mg up to 4 times daily corresponding with elevated cortisol
Use for 2 – 3 months

Vitamins:

B5 500 mg 3 x daily C 1000 – 3000 mg 3 x daily
B6 100 mg 2 x daily E 800 i.u. daily
DHEA (oral, topical, sublingual)

Women — 2.5 – 15 mg daily

Men — 5 – 25 mg daily

Exercise: At least 20 minutes at a time 3-4 times per week. Exercise is most healing to the adrenals in a non-competitive environment.
Breathing: Yoga, meditation, progressive relaxation etc. Daily mindfulness of belly breathing and re-teaching the diaphragm to relax is essential for HPA axis recovery as shallow breathing signals the adrenals to be alert and vigilant.
Laughter: They say that laughter is the best medicine, and it does increase parasympathetic activity. In addition to laughing, any activity that brings you joy or peace is beneficial.
Sleep: A regular sleep schedule with an early bedtime allows the HPA axis the best opportunity for rest and repair. Sleeping in whenever possible may be of benefit as well.
Diet: An HPA axis support diet should limit caffeine, chocolate, simple carbohydrates and partially hydrogenated vegetable oil and be rich in whole grains, protein, fruits, vegtables and good fats. Small meals that include protein should be eaten frequently starting at breakfast, and time should be taken to chew thoroughly and digest, rather than eating on the run.

Disclaimer:

Test results may vary depending on your age, gender, health history, the method used for the test, and other things. Your test results may not mean you have a problem. Ask your healthcare provider what your test results mean for you. 

The information on healthmatters.io is NOT intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified health care professional and is not intended as medical advice.