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Adrenal Functional Reserve

Meaning

This term quantifies the capacity of the adrenal glands to produce and secrete stress hormones, primarily cortisol and DHEA, beyond their basal, resting requirements. It represents the physiological buffer available to respond to acute or chronic stressors, ensuring the body can mount an adequate fight-or-flight response when challenged. A robust reserve indicates resilience, while a diminished reserve suggests a reduced ability to cope with ongoing demands, which can lead to significant systemic fatigue and compromised stress adaptation.