Cushing’s Syndrome is a very “stressful” disease to contract, but there are many natural remedies for this condition, including sleeping more, reducing stress, exercising regularly, altering your diet, and using herbal treatments, among others.What is Cushing’s Syndrome?
Our bodies are strictly regulated in their activities by the levels of hormones that we possess at any given time, and when those hormone levels get out of control or are altered by an infection, tumor, or disease, it can have disastrous and even deadly consequences. Cushing’s syndrome is a disease characterized by abnormally high levels of cortisol in the body. This can be caused by tumors in the adrenal gland of the body, which stimulates high amounts of ACTH production. Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland that stimulates the production and release of cortisol in the body. Cushing’s Syndrome can also be caused by various cancers throughout the body, which make ACTH in other parts of the body and thus stimulates the release of cortisol.Cortisol is one of the stress hormones in the body, but its levels need to be controlled, or else it can put unnecessary strain on the heart, metabolism, and many other organ systems. This is an extremely rare disease, affecting less than 20 people per million each year, but it can be deadly, causing high blood pressure, excess hair growth, easy bruising, swelling of the face and neck, decreased fertility, fatigue, diabetes, mood disorders, and a broad range of other secondary symptoms. The combination of symptoms and the imbalanced hormone levels in the body can be debilitating. The formal treatment for Cushing’s Syndrome involves treating the adrenal or pituitary tumors or treating cancer that is causing the excess ACTH production. It is important to note that Cushing’s Syndrome is not the same as Cushing’s Disease. Fortunately, there are a number of natural treatments that can control and moderate the symptoms of Cushing’s Syndrome. Now, let’s take a closer look at some of the home remedies for Cushing’s Syndrome.
Home Remedies for Cushing’s Syndrome
Home remedies for Cushing’s syndrome include:Increasing Sleep
One of the best ways to improve our overall health is to give our bodies a chance to recover and rest. The amount of time we sleep is closely connected to our hormonal levels and being deprived of sleep can boost our cortisol levels even further. Stress and strain on the body only increase when we don’t “shut off” for seven to nine hours per night, so if you’re suffering from Cushing’s Syndrome, ensure that you get a proper amount of rest!Exercising Regularly
Exercise can be a wonderful way to release stress and detoxify the body, while also helping to lose weight and increase muscle mass, both of which can be compromised as a result of Cushing’s Syndrome. Getting your heart rate up and boosting blood flow can also improve your metabolic rate and optimize hormone production and release throughout the body. 3-4 times per week is appropriate for someone suffering from this condition.Burdock Root
Herbal treatments for Cushing’s Syndrome are very popular and effective, and burdock root’s impact on hormonal levels in the body make it very important. Burdock root tea can be prepared very easily and can help to modulate adrenal function, thus eliminating many of the symptoms of this syndrome.Dandelion Tea
Some of the antioxidant compounds that have been found within dandelion, including dandelion-luteolin, have powerful effects on the liver, kidneys and adrenal gland, helping to ensure that it operates properly, rather than pumping out unnecessary amounts of cortisol into the body. Dandelion tea is readily available in health food stores and can be made easily at home as well.Ginseng
Ginseng is not only one of the most beloved and trusted herbal remedies on the planet, but it also has certain adaptogenic qualities, which mean that it can “teach” the body to function more properly and in a healthier way. These specific types of herbs are also great for reducing stress levels and helping the body learn to handle stress in a more appropriate way. Ginger can be eaten raw or supplements can be taken to help moderate the symptoms of Cushing’s Syndrome.Reishi Mushrooms
Research has shown that reishi mushrooms can actively control stress hormone levels within the body, primarily due to the high concentration of antioxidant compounds found in mushrooms, as well as certain adaptogenic properties that can help the body learn how to handle excess stress in less detrimental ways.High-protein Foods
There is a close connection between protein intake and Cushing’s Syndrome because the amino acids found in foods that are rich in protein also have a direct impact on neurotransmitter activity in the body, which can stimulate the production of hormones. Some of the best sources of protein in your diet are cheese, meat, beans, yogurt, and lentils.Spinach
Electrolyte imbalances are a common side effect of Cushing’s Syndrome, which can be countered by the intake of potassium, calcium, and magnesium. Spinach is a rich source of minerals, as well as antioxidants, and has been linked to more controlled hormonal levels in the body, making it a good dietary addition if you’re suffering from Cushing’s Syndrome.Magnolia Bark
Numerous studies have linked the intake of magnolia bark with decreased levels of cortisol in the body, which makes this a key herbal supplement in the treatment of Cushing’s Syndrome. Magnolia bark has also been used in traditional medicine practice for centuries as a way to relieve stress and anxiety.Avocados
Inflammation throughout the body is a common side effect of Cushing’s Syndrome, and one of the best ways to reduce widespread inflammation is by boosting your omega-3 fatty acid levels. Avocados are great sources of these beneficial fats, which can help to negate some of the symptoms of this syndrome.Oily Fish
Similar to avocados, oily fish like salmon, mackerel, and tuna are all rich sources of omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for reducing stress levels in the body and lowering inflammation levels throughout the body. Adding these fish to your diet is a solid way to reduce the effects of Cushing’s Syndrome.Aromatherapy
A popular means of stress reduction is aromatherapy, and while some people still see this as an unproven “alternative” therapy, it has been shown to directly lower stress hormone levels and improve overall health and balance within the body. Some of the best aromatherapy varieties for Cushing’s Syndrome include lavender, myrrh, and bergamot.Yoga
The ancient practice of yoga has been used for thousands of years to reduce stress and anxiety in the body. Given that Cushing’s Syndrome increases cortisol levels and puts additional strain on every system of the body, taking up normal yoga practice can help to align your metabolism, immune system and hormonal levels for a normal, healthy lifestyle.Word of Caution: Many of the symptoms of Cushing’s Syndrome can be dangerous, and you should always speak with a medical professional. The underlying causes of Cushing’s Syndrome is likely a tumor of some kind or a variety of cancer, and many of these natural treatments should be considered as complementary remedies to more formal options, such as surgery to remove potentially life-threatening tumors.
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