The adrenals are small pyramidal-shaped glands that are situated on top of the kidneys, and are responsible for the production of many hormones. A growing body of published research suggests the role of adrenal androgens (steroid hormones produced in both men and women) in the onset and development of autoimmunity. Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and dehydroepiandrosterone-sulphate (DHEAS)—the major androgen products of the adrenal gland—have immunosuppressive effect. It is, thereby, no surprise that lower levels of DHEA and DHEAS have been observed in most autoimmune diseases. As androgens, DHEA and DHEAS contribute to anabolic processes in the body i.e. building up of organs and tissues. To complicate matters, decreased amounts of these hormones are often associated with the increased secretion of the catabolic (i.e. break down) hormone, cortisol. If left unmanaged, this imbalance will result in tissue destruction. Finally, aberrations in ovarian and testicular function are often associated with adrenal imbalances. The resulting shifts in levels of prolactin, estrogen and other gonadal androgens further quell the immunosuppressive competence of the body.

The research is clear—an intimate relationship between hormones and inflammation is irrefutable. As such, the evaluation and management of hormones should be strongly considered when treating autoimmune diseases.

References

  1. Reference for the article: Orv Hetil (2002). The role of adrenal and gonadal hormones in the pathogenesis of autoimmune polyarthritis. 143(20),1121-8. Review. Hungarian.
  2. Reference for the recipe: Derouiche, A., et al. (2013). Effect of argan and olive oil consumption on the hormonal profile of androgens among healthy adult Moroccan men. Natural Product Communications, 8(1):51-3.

Recipe

TESTOSTERONE-BOOSTING BROCCOLI SPINACH SOUP WITH TOASTED BRAZIL NUTS

A variety of easily accessible foods can really pack a punch when trying to balance hormones. Cruciferous vegetables, like broccoli, contain indole-3-carbinol (1-3-C). I-3-C helps to excrete excess estrogen, in turn, increasing the body’s ratio of testosterone to estrogen. Fat consumption is also vital to hormone balance, but choosing the right fats is critical. In the research it has been shown that daily consumption of extra virgin olive oil can increase testosterone up to 19% in as little as three weeks.1 Another great fat to consume in the quest for optimizing hormones is coconut oil. Saturated fats are often given a bad rap, but they are required for hormone production. Coconut oil is a healthy saturated fat that should not be ignored.

Link for the recipe: https://drnatashaturner.com/testosterone-boosting-broccoli-spinach-soup-with-toasted-brasil-nuts/