The Cut - The Myth of Adrenal Fatigue

Are you constantly tired but struggle to fall (and stay) asleep when it’s time for bed? Have you gained weight that you can’t seem to lose? Are you grouchy and exhausted all the time? If you consult Dr. Google, it might tell you that you have adrenal fatigue.

The theory is this: The adrenals, two triangular glands that sit atop the kidneys and produce cortisol (the hormone that regulates many of your bodily functions, including metabolism, stress responses, blood pressure, and the immune system), can be exhausted by exposure to constant stress. As a result, they stop producing enough cortisol, and bodily chaos ensues. Sounds like something that “makes sense,” no? Wellness culture constantly bombards us with messages that we’re stressed, that we don’t take proper care of ourselves, that we need to meditate, take baths, and detoxify from modern life and all its evils. Stress is making us sick, and this explains it all, right?

King Charles, your public has spoken. Alexei Navalny on what a post-Putin Russia should look like. The CIA wants to resurrect the woolly mammoth — what could possibly go wrong? We were going to watch it no matter what, but we’re glad to see the positive reviews for Hocus Pocus 2. Sheldon, you’re going to make us cry! Save some money: Switch to veggie burgers. This Hurricane Shark is real (and of course it was Florida where the urban legend finally emerged). Look at this beautiful blended family. And maybe do less this weekend.

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