Adrenal Function Resetting refers to a clinical strategy aimed at restoring optimal, non-pathological responsiveness and secretory patterns of the adrenal glands, primarily concerning cortisol and dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) production. This process addresses states of chronic HPA axis dysregulation, often colloquially termed “adrenal fatigue,” by re-establishing proper feedback loops. The goal is to return the gland’s hormone output to its genetically programmed, healthy diurnal rhythm.
Origin
This term emerges from clinical endocrinology and functional medicine, focusing on the pervasive impact of chronic stress on the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. The need for “resetting” arose from observing patients with prolonged stress exposure exhibiting flattened or inverted cortisol curves, indicating compromised adrenal reserve and regulatory control. It emphasizes functional recovery over simple supplementation.
Mechanism
The primary mechanism involves targeted intervention to modulate the central nervous system’s signaling to the adrenal cortex. This includes reducing chronic adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) pulsatility from the pituitary and enhancing the sensitivity of glucocorticoid receptors throughout the body. Nutritional and lifestyle interventions support the enzymatic pathways within the adrenal gland responsible for steroidogenesis, facilitating balanced cortisol and mineralocorticoid output.
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