Adrenal Fatigue and Your Thyroid: What You Need to Know
If you have hypothyroidism or Hashimoto’s and still feel exhausted despite treatment, your adrenal glands might be part of the problem. The thyroid and adrenal glands work closely together to regulate energy, metabolism, and stress responses. When one system is out of balance, the other is affected, often leading to persistent fatigue, brain fog, and hormonal imbalances.
In this post, we’ll explore how the thyroid and adrenals are connected, signs of adrenal fatigue, and how to support both systems for better energy and overall well-being.
How the Thyroid and Adrenals Work Together
Your adrenal glands produce cortisol, a hormone that helps regulate metabolism, reduce inflammation, and manage stress. Cortisol works alongside thyroid hormones to ensure your body has the energy it needs to function optimally.
However, chronic stress—whether from poor sleep, over-exercise, or emotional strain—can deplete adrenal reserves over time. When your body is constantly in “fight-or-flight” mode, your adrenals prioritize cortisol production over other essential hormones, which can suppress thyroid function and slow metabolism.
When adrenal function is low, you may struggle with energy dips, increased inflammation, and difficulty managing stress—all of which worsen thyroid symptoms. This is why many people with hypothyroidism or Hashimoto’s also experience signs of adrenal fatigue.
Signs You Have Adrenal Fatigue
Adrenal fatigue can mimic thyroid dysfunction, so it’s essential to understand the key symptoms:
Exhaustion – Feeling constantly drained, even after a full night’s sleep.
Brain Fog – Struggling with focus, memory, or mental clarity.
Difficulty Waking Up – Needing caffeine to function in the morning.
Cravings for Sugar or Salt – A sign your body is struggling to regulate energy levels.
Dizziness or Lightheadedness – Especially when standing up too quickly.
Feeling "Tired but Wired" at Night – Struggling to fall asleep despite feeling exhausted.
If you recognize these symptoms, adrenal fatigue could be contributing to your thyroid dysfunction. Addressing adrenal health can help restore balance to your thyroid and improve overall energy levels.
Lifestyle Changes to Support Your Adrenals and Thyroid
The good news is that adrenal fatigue can often be improved with the right lifestyle adjustments. Here’s how to start supporting both your adrenals and thyroid:
Prioritize Sleep & Stress Management
Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night.
Establish a relaxing bedtime routine (limit screens, try meditation).
Practice stress-reducing techniques like deep breathing, acupuncture, or yoga.
Adjust Your Diet for Hormonal Balance
Eat whole, nutrient-dense foods to nourish your adrenals and thyroid.
Avoid processed foods, excess sugar, and caffeine, which can overstimulate the adrenals.
Incorporate adaptogenic herbs like ashwagandha and rhodiola to support stress resilience.
Exercise Smart, Not Hard
Avoid over-exercising—too much cardio can stress the adrenals further.
Focus on low-impact movement like walking, strength training, or yoga.
Listen to your body—if you feel exhausted after exercise, scale back intensity.
Final Thoughts
Your thyroid and adrenals work as a team, so addressing both is essential for optimal energy and health. If you suspect adrenal fatigue is contributing to your thyroid symptoms, making small but consistent lifestyle changes can help restore balance and improve how you feel.
Need personalized support? Schedule a consultation to get to the root cause of your fatigue and start feeling better today!