Regarding what is Isocort ?

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ISOCORT

IsoCort is a freeze dried adrenal cortex extract containing synergistic herbs &

medium chain triglycerides. Dr. Slagle frequently recommends this product for:

a.. Stress induced fatigue or exhaustion.

b.. Poor stress tolerance.

c.. General fatigue.

d.. Multiple allergies.

e.. Autoimmune disorders.

f.. Depression.

g.. Buffering extreme physical or emotional stress effects.

h.. Inflammation.

i.. Low blood pressure.

j.. Hypoglycemia.

k.. Drug & alcohol withdrawal.

l.. Weaning from cortisone drugs.

DIRECTIONS: Chew 1-4 tabs 1-4 times daily depending on severity of symptoms &

response --

a.. upon arising

b.. mid morning

c.. noon

d.. mid afternoon as needed

Iso-Cort does not taste very good & may be swallowed, but Dr. Slagle sees better

results with chewing.

Importance of Adrenal Function

The Adrenals are two small endocrine glands, whose location is directly above

each of the kidneys. The proper functioning of these glands is essential to our

overall health and sense of well-being. They are of primary concern in matters

of energy production, stamina, blood sugar regulation, emotional balance,

ability to cope with stress, thyroid activity (indirect effect on metabolic

rate), sensitivity to allergens (allergy producing substances) and the

regulation of inflammatory processes.

Fatigue

Many people complain of fatigue as a primary symptom, often complicated by other

health concerns. When the attention is focused to the endocrine system in

fatigued individuals, eight times out of ten the signs and symptoms are a result

of insufficient adrenal reserves. In simple terms, weak or tired adrenal glands.

In most cases this condition develops gradually, due to a host of factors.

Causes of Adrenal Depletion

Excessive long term stress, insufficient rest (optimal adrenal function demands

a relatively early bed time, so getting to sleep by ten o clock is critical for

their restoration) insufficient consumption of protein, insufficient consumption

of vitamin C, overuse of caffeine, sugar and other stimulants, long term or

frequent use of Canabis, history of Cocaine or Amphetamine abuse, chronic

illness or congenital adrenal insufficiency.

Of the above, the most common causes of adrenal insufficiency by far are

excessive stress, over consumption of stimulants and late bedtime.

Iso Cort Is Unique

Unlike all other adrenal support remedies available today, Iso Cort is the only

one that provides a standardized dose of the adreno-cortical substance

(Cortisol) required for restoration of healthy adrenal function. In order to

bring the adrenals back into a state of optimal functionality, it is critical to

supply the body with regulated doses of this substance (considerably less than

unassisted healthy adrenals would produce). Just enough is required to provide

gentle support while the glands rebuild themselves. Using greater amounts would

make the glands lazy and counteract the healing process. It is therefore

imperative that the dosage be stable and reliable so as to avoid a see-saw

effect. This can unfortunately not be accomplished by the protomorphogenic or

unrefined products available in most natural food stores or through most natural

healing practitioners, because such unrefined adrenal supplements do not deliver

an exact concentration of Cortisol per tablet or capsule.

Cure

Returning the adrenal function back to a healthy state may take anywhere from 6

to 18 months depending on the individual condition and degree of commitment to

the healing process. The rewards are many. Allergic persons in most cases become

much less sensitive to allergens, those with chronic inflammatory complaints

improve greatly, fatigued persons return to more reliable levels of energy and

stamina.

Significant improvement can usually be felt within 3-21 days after initiating

regular use of Iso Cort as directed. In most cases persons bothered with

constant fatigue or afternoon drowsiness are able to be alert and productive for

the entire day.

TO ENHANCE THIS SUPPLEMENT'S HEALING POTENTIAL: Avoid all stimulants such as

coffee or other caffeine containing beverages (if it is difficult for you to

discontinue drinking coffee all at once, at least begin to wean yourself slowly,

by reducing your intake by one half during the first week, and continue cutting

back by one half with each continuing week. This should take care of any

withdrawal symptoms). Also, avoid white sugar as well as white flour containing

products. If you are not eating much in the way of protein on a daily basis, add

more protein rich foods to every meal. Organically raised red meat, liver and

eggs are all very helpful in restoring adrenal functionality. Also be sure to

take at least 2,000 mg of Vitamin-C every morning and another 1,000 mg with

lunch. Never skip breakfast, eat 5 to 6 times daily (small portions) to maintain

stable blood sugar levels and get to sleep by ten o clock.

Adrenal Dysfunction

When W. Tintera, M.D. was in medical school about 50 years ago, the

students were cautioned not to marry while in school and further, not to select

a spouse with allergies. Tintera did both, and the result was a doctor's

discovery of adrenal dysfunction (hypoadrenocorticism), a stress condition.

He consequently learned that his wife had allergies, that she tended to abort,

and that the calves used to chase her on the farm. This last, while amusing, was

a valuable clue to one of her problems - loss of salt. They were then living in

St. Louis where the summers can be very hot and humid and, during a particularly

uncomfortable spell, Mrs. Tintera fainted. From his knowledge of physiology, Dr.

Tintera knew to give her salt water to drink, after which she recovered and was

even better than before the incident.

Dr. Tintera knew that among the chief functions of the adrenal cortex were the

regulation of the mineral metabolism (sodium, potassium, chloride), the

regulation of water balance, and the regulation of organic metabolism

(utilization and distribution of carbohydrates, protein, and fat)and control of

tissue reactions (such as hypersensitivity, allergic states, and collagen

diseases) and the production of the sex hormones. He concluded that what his

wife had was adrenal cortical incompetence. Because of this Dr. Tintera decided

that his specialty would be in the field of endocrinology. (Of interest, after

treatment, Mrs. Tintera eventually had several successful pregnancies.)

In his medical practice he had a special interest in treating the alcoholic

patient. He found he could keep severely distressed alcoholics quiet with

adrenal cortical extract (A.C.E.) injections. He tried A.C.E. on other patients

with signs of adrenal insufficiency, and they began reporting many long standing

symptoms with had either disappeared or were much alleviated. The chief

complaints of these patients were often similar to those found in persons who

are hypoglycemic. These chief complaints listed in order of prominence were:

1. Inability to concentrate

2. Excessive fatigue

3. Nervousness & irritability

4. Mental depression

5. Apprehensions

6. Excessive weakness

7. Lightheadedness

8. Faintness and fainting

9. Insomnia

He had to conclude that hypoadrenocortics do have hypoglycemia (or disturbed

carbohydrate metabolism) although not necessarily the other way around.

Also reported were improvements in: arthritis, pain in shoulders and back

muscles, allergies, premenstrual problems, headache, migraine, ringing of the

ears, tension, depression, suicidal thoughts, nervousness, apprehensions,

noticeable heart action, gastrointestinal problems, heat exhaustion, and

inability in handling stress.

The typical glucose tolerance curve was the low flat curve which indicates

hypoadrenocorticism, hypoglycemia, some form of allergy, gouty or rheumatoid

arthritis, or schizophrenia. The following will suggest clues for self

identification.

Skin thin and dry or scaly, pigmentation of temples, red palms or fingertips,

cold clammy palms, exaggerated reflexes, angular appearance, long arms and legs.

The span is greater than the height.

Inflammation of lymph glands of the neck (swelling, pain, or tenderness)

Blood pressure usually low (postural hypotension) on standing (105/60) and then

elevated to (120 or 130/70 or 80) on reclining. This change from low to higher

when lying down may be the reason why many patients find it difficult to fall

asleep. It is conducive to falling asleep to lie in a semireclining position for

15 or 20 minutes. Another way to describe postural hypotension is that there may

be a sudden drop in blood pressure to below normal upon suddenly arising from

bed, or from standing still, causing temporary darkening of vision, dizziness,

faintness, or fainting.

Thin-muscle type (this is called asthenic habitus). The typical person is also

tall. A short person may have what we call " signs of tallness " - a moderately

long neck, in index finger longer than the 4th, a 2nd toe longer than the big

toe.

Sparse hair on body, but usually a bull head of fine and abundant hair. The

typical persons are blond and blue eyed, or red headed. A tall, thin blonde with

skin allergies can be diagnosed immediately.

Crowded lower teeth - with a high palatal arch (roof of moth)

Pain and tenderness over adrenal area when pressure is applied (called Positive

Rogoff's sign).

Scanty perspiration (except under arms or hands and feet). This person may be a

" salt loser " (the tendency is to lose salt and to retain potassium). The pattern

of urination will be either very frequent in small amounts, or infrequent in

large amounts. This person usually does not do well in the heat or in the

summer, particularly in conditions of high temperature plus high humidity, plus

low barometric pressure. At such times he gets puffy ankles or fingers. For the

person with depleted adrenals sunbathing on the beach can have devastating

results. The urine and perspiration of the salt loser is saltier than normal and

there is consequently a greater salt concentration on the skin. Animals are

attracted to this. The salt loser is attempting to function on low salt and does

not understand why he feels faint, or is suddenly unable to function in the

heat, or he feels his mind id cloudy and his energy gone. He may become very

weak, tired, and depressed. Salt is needed for heart action, to make

hydrochloric acid in the stomach and for the fluid around the cells. This

extra-cellular fluid affects the proper function of muscles and cells. The nerve

cells of the brain, and consequently all of our emotions, are affected by the

salt levels. Adding salt to the food my be all that is needed for some patients.

Others may need to also add salt to the drinking water.

Tintera wrote that salt is a diuretic (!) and that hypoadrenocortics retained

fluid because the body is trying to hold in the salt. When enough salt is

consumed the body will take what it needs and will excrete the rest. On

sufficient salt ankle edema will usually disappear in three days. If it does not

disappear in five to six days, potassium may also be needed. Vitamin B6 is also

helpful for edema. Even other types of conditions, like kidney disease, need

" some " salt and should have a moderate amount. It can be a serious mistake for

an individual to avoid salt for no apparent reason. For any loss of body fluids

- excessive perspiration or urination, vomiting or diarrhea - the lost salt must

be replaced.

" To find the amount of salt needed, one gradually increases the salt intake

until he finds the amount he feels best on - usually 2 to 10 grams or roughly

1/2 teaspoonful to 1 tablespoonful. After determining the amount, one can try to

cut back and see if that is just as effective. Knowledgeable physicians now

report that there should be no salt restrictions during pregnancy and also no

diuretics used. If there is edema in pregnancy, extra salt brings about

diuresis. The addition of a small amount of allowable juice provides glucose

which aids in the absorption of salt. Some individuals may also need potassium.

The use of salt does not cause hypertension, as is frequently claimed. (Ref:

H. Ahrens, PhD U.S. Dept of Agriculture, Dr. Ahrens is also Associate

Professor of Nutrition, Univ. of Md. College Park, Md) A research physiologist

wrote that sugar (but not salt) is one causative factor in hypertension.

Nutrition oriented advisors may suggest using a small amount of sea salt, but in

the larger amounts that hypoadrenocortics need, too many trace minerals may be

taken in. The name trace minerals means one should have only a trace of them.

The main minerals, calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium, iron, iodine, and zinc

are needed in larger amounts. Diamond Crystal Kosher salt is plain sodium

chloride without additives. When dissolved in water, it results in a clear

solution indicating no additives. Salt, like other minerals, is essential to

life and the person with undiagnosed adrenal dysfunction (who is therefore a

salt loser) on a salt restricted diet may be slowly deteriorating as the result.

In 's Disease, where there is a complete nonfunction (atrophy) of the

adrenal cortex, the patient could suffer prostration, or die from excess

perspiration or a diet high in potassium or low in sodium. Hypoadrenocortics,

with incompetent adrenals, cannot take the well-meaning advice to " get your salt

from celery and okra " . There appears to be no natural food which contains more

salt than potassium and therefor salt must be added to the diet. The

hypoadrenocortic has what we describe as a " touch of 's Disease " . This

unfortunately is a condition not generally recognized.

The adrenals have a close connection with the sex glands. They produce about 25%

of the female sex hormone in women and 65% of the male hormone in the man. The

inability of the adrenals to produce the additional sex hormones may result in

the flat chested " twiggy " female or the sparse- chest-haired male. In patients

in their thirties or older there may also be an absence of hair on the lower

two-thirds of the legs, which is not a result of wearing off by the trousers as

is supposed.

There can be a great variation possible among the large numbers of adrenal

steroids, causing a person's individual physical characteristics to vary widely

from the typical. These variations may bring on precocious sexual development in

boys and girls. They also cause changes in adults in psychological makeup and

direction of sexual desire, or can actually produce feminism in men and

masculinity in women.

It is safe to assume that any sick person has a liver problem. Hypoglycemic are

said to have a liver involvement, and hypoadrenocorticism rarely exists without

involvement of other glands and organs. The liver must detoxify each and every

substance in the body before it is used by the body. This means not only

medicines and drugs, but foods and our own body secretions. Depending on the

degree of liver incompetence, it may or may not show up on laboratory tests. In

addition, patients may eventually learn that they have malabsorption from the

intestinal tract.

A discussion on stress should include recognition of Dr. Hans Selye. His classic

work on stress, ( " The Stress of Life, Hans Selye, M.D., McGraw- Hill Book Co.,

N.Y.) and his many other publications report " that our various internal organs,

especially the endocrine glands and the nervous system, help to adjust us to the

constant changes which occur in and around us. " He calls this adjustment the

General Adaptation Syndrome. He gradually concluded that the adrenals were the

body's prime reactors to stress. He stated, " They are the only organs that do

not shrink under stress; they thrive and enlarge. If you remove them, and

subject an animal to stress it can't live. But if you remove them, and then

inject extract of cattle adrenals (cortex), stress resistance will vary in

direct proportion to the amount of the injection, and even be put back to

normal. " Likewise a person's stress resistance will vary with the competence of

his adrenals, but continually stressing the adrenals finally depletes them.

For non-medical helps, it is absolutely necessary to remove the dietary stress,

sugars, starches, caffeine, alcohol, drugs, and as much nicotine as possible.

One must use ascorbic acid (Vit. C), salt, and fat - both saturated and

unsaturated. Avoiding animal fats, as seems to be the popular thing to do, is

avoiding the kind of fat that adrenal hormones and estrogen and androgen are

made from. Outer stresses must be avoided or reduced - those including excessive

heat, cold, overwork, lack of sleep, arguments, diseases, and the like. One

should exercise, involving the adrenal area. Oxygen is necessary for the

utilization of glucose by the body, and proper breathing must be practiced. Rest

period and relaxation must be observed and also no later than 11 p.m. bedtime.

Vitamins and especially ascorbic acid will help. The adrenals contain more

Vitamin C (and cholesterol) than any tissue in the body. With all these helps,

the hypoadrenaocortic can finally have a happy and useful life.

The adrenals are two crescent-shaped glands that sit on top of each kidney. The

adrenal glands secrete hormones directly into the bloodstream. They are divided

anatomically and functionally into two main parts: the medulla (middle) and the

cortex (rind) (Clayman 1989). Additionally, each division of an adrenal gland

consists of internal layers that produce different hormones.

The inner part, or adrenal medulla, manufactures epinephrine and norepinephrine,

commonly known as adrenaline and noradrenaline. These hormones are the " fight or

flight " hormones that are released in potentially life-or-death situations.

Their release increases one's heart rate and blood pressure and diverts more

blood to the brain, heart, and skeletal muscles. This is important when

discussing stress.

The adrenal cortex surrounds the adrenal medulla and responds to a different

type of stress. This is where the steroid hormones are made. These include

cortisone, hydrocortisone, testosterone, estrogen, 17-hydroxy-ketosteroids,

DHEA, pregnenolone, aldosterone, androstenedione, progesterone, and some other

intermediate hormones. Many of these hormones are also made elsewhere in the

body, but aldosterone, cortisone, and hydrocortisone are made only in the

adrenal glands.

The hormone aldosterone, together with the kidneys, regulates the balance of

sodium and potassium in the body. This regulation is critical to many areas of

physiological function, including the ability to react to stress, maintain fluid

balance, and regulate blood pressure.

Two disorders often associated with impaired function of the adrenal glands are

's disease and Cushing's syndrome.

's Disease: Adrenal Insufficiency

's disease is a profound chronic adrenal failure caused by damage

or disease of the adrenal gland, resulting in a deficiency of cortisol. This

disease is sometimes called chronic adrenal insufficiency or hypocortisolism.

The most important job of cortisol is to help the body respond to stress. Among

its other vital tasks, cortisol is partly responsible for

a.. Maintaining blood pressure and cardiovascular function

b.. Balancing the effects of insulin in breaking down sugar for energy

c.. Slowing the immune system's inflammatory response

d.. Regulating the metabolism of proteins, carbohydrates, and fats

's disease is characterized by muscle weakness, reduced blood

sugar, nausea, loss of appetite, weight loss, and low blood pressure, which can

impact the act of standing, causing dizziness or fainting. Skin changes also are

common in 's disease, with areas of hyperpigmentation or dark tanning

that are mostly visible on scars, skin folds, toes, lips, mucous membranes, and

pressure points, such as the elbows, knees, and knuckles.

Cushing's Syndrome: Overproduction of Cortisol

The overproduction of cortisol by the adrenal glands leads to Cushing's

syndrome (Clayman 1989). Cushing's syndrome also results when glucocorticoid

drug hormones (such as hydrocortisone, prednisone, methylprednisolone, or

dexamethasone) are taken in excess for a prolonged period of time. These steroid

hormones are often used to treat inflammatory-related illnesses such as asthma,

rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, and some allergies.

The overproduction of cortisol in the adrenal glands can happen in two

ways. A pituitary tumor could be producing too much ACTH (adrenocorticotropic

hormone, produced by the pituitary gland), stimulating the adrenals to grow and

to produce too much cortisol, or a benign or malignant tumor outside the

pituitary such as in the lung, thymus gland, pancreas, or other organs can

produce too much ACTH. The pituitary form is classically called Cushing's

disease.

Cushing's syndrome is characterized by central obesity; sparing of the

arms and legs (thin extremities); a round, reddish moon face; buffalo hump; and

a protuberant abdomen. Many people with Cushing's syndrome experience severe

fatigue, weak muscles, ulcers, thin skin, high blood pressure, and high blood

sugar. Irritability, anxiety, and depression are also very common. Women with

Cushing's syndrome will usually have excess hair growth (hirsuitism) on their

face, necks, chests, abdomens, and thighs. Their menstrual periods may become

irregular or stop. Men may have decreased fertility and desire for sex.

Adrenal Fatigue

Constant stress and poor nutrition can weaken the adrenal glands. When

stress continues over prolonged periods of time, the adrenal glands can deplete

the body's hormonal and energy reserves, and the glands may either shrink in

size or hypertrophy (enlarge). The overproduction of adrenal hormones caused by

prolonged stress can weaken the immune system and inhibit the production of

white blood cells that protect the body against foreign invaders (in particular

lymphocytes and lymph node function). Adrenal dysfunction can disrupt the body's

blood sugar metabolism, causing weakness, fatigue, and a feeling of being run

down. It can also interfere with normal sleep rhythms and produce a wakeful,

unrelaxing sleep state, making a person feel worn out even after a full night's

sleep.

If a person succumbs easily to allergies and infections, feels constantly

drained and exhausted, and experiences low blood sugar and blood pressure, the

culprit may be weak adrenals. Adrenal insufficiency is sometimes linked to

chronic fatigue. In some fatigued patients, thyroid problems may overlap adrenal

problems. In these cases, the status of the adrenal glands and the thyroid gland

must be assessed. The appropriate treatment should be undertaken only after this

determination is made. If adrenal fatigue is suspected, the patient should be

evaluated by a physician with experience in recognizing and treating adrenal

fatigue and issues of the relative ian state. It is very important to

make sure that full-blown 's disease is not the problem, since it must be

treated vigorously (Ehlert et al. 2001; Tsigos et al. 2002). In most

communities, a qualified internist or internal medicine subspecialist will begin

the investigation.

Diagnosis

If disturbed adrenal function is suspected, the levels of hormones such as

hydrocortisone, aldosterone, epinephrine, and ACTH may be measured in blood,

plasma, and urine. There are also tests (by injection) to measure the effects of

substances that normally modify the production of a specific hormone. One test

is called the ACTH challenge test. When ACTH is injected, there should be an

increase in adrenal hormone output. If this does not happen, adrenal fatigue is

probable. These tests are also helpful in localizing the underlying cause of a

particular disorder (e.g., to distinguish between Cushing's syndrome caused by

an adrenal tumor from that caused by pituitary disease). Conversely, a very high

potency corticosteroid (dexamethasone) can be used to assess the suppressability

of cortisone production in Cushing's syndrome.

If disease of the adrenal glands is suspected, imaging studies (abdominal

x-ray, MRI, CT scan, arteriography, radionuclide scanning, and IV scanning of

the position of kidneys using an IV dye) may show the presence of adrenal

calcification, a tumor, atrophy, or the overgrowth of a gland.

Factors that May be Overlooked in Diagnosis

Cortisone is produced mainly in a reversible reaction from cortisol; it is

also secreted in small amounts from the adrenal cortex. The term hydrocortisone

refers to both naturally produced cortisone and the pharmaceutical preparation

used to treat various inflammatory disorders. Naturally produced hydrocortisone

is a glucocorticoid, meaning that it helps to regulate normal blood glucose

concentration by converting amino acids and fatty acids to glucose, when needed,

in a process called gluconeogenesis.

Synthetic hydrocortisone drugs (corticosteroids) became available in the

late 1940s and were heralded as a miraculous treatment for rheumatoid arthritis

due to their suppression of the immune system. However, it did not take long to

learn that there was a serious price to pay for chronic corticosteroid use.

People taking synthetic hydrocortisone developed many symptoms and physical

abnormalities such as the symptoms of Cushing's syndrome, resulting from the

body's overexposure to corticosteroids.

As a result of these adverse reactions, an often irrational approach

developed in the medical community to the question of relative adrenal function.

A person who has total failure of the adrenal glands is said to have 's

disease even though low steroid levels can also be caused by failure of the

hypothalamus, thalamus, and pituitary areas of the brain. In this case, the

adrenal glands still function. In the case of Cushing's syndrome, the disease

may manifest due to physical abnormality or as the result of corticosteroid use.

When a physician evaluates a patient relying solely upon laboratory data,

the patient is considered either normal or having 's disease or Cushing's

syndrome. There may be no analysis of other contributing factors. This protocol

is directed only at the function of the adrenal glands. However, just as in

thyroid dysfunction (see the Thyroid Deficiency protocol), normal laboratory

tests do not exclude what some physicians refer to as adrenal fatigue (or

relative Cushing's or ian states).

The association of impaired immune function and the administration of

synthetic corticosteroids has blurred an important fact. Decreased levels of

corticosteroids also impair immune function. What further complicates the matter

is the fact that it is now thought that the continual overproduction of

cortisol, not in the range that would produce Cushing's syndrome, contributes to

immune suppression, atherosclerosis, brain cell injury, and accelerated aging.

's Disease

Adrenal Cortical Extract

A few physicians recommend adrenal cortical extract (ACE), which contains

all the corticosteroids in the proper proportions. ACE used to be widely

available in this country, but at the present time it is not. Complementary

physicians may have had experience with it. At times of increased stress, the

addition of adrenal glandulars may be advisable but must be monitored carefully.

Long-term use is not recommended and is likely hazardous. (The FDA removed all

products containing adrenal cortex from market in 1997 due to concerns regarding

contamination.)

Hydrocortisone

Cortisol is usually replaced orally with hydrocortisone tablets. The doses

of this medication are adjusted to meet the needs of individual patients. During

a critical stage, when blood pressure and blood sugar are dangerously low and

potassium levels are high, therapy can involve the injection of hydrocortisone,

saline, and dextrose.

Cushing's Syndrome

Treatment of Cushing's syndrome will depend upon the cause of the

disorder. If the disorder is caused by long-term corticosteroid use, the drug

must be slowly decreased and the patient weaned under medical supervision. If it

is caused by a pituitary or adrenal tumor, surgery is necessary to remove it. In

Cushing's syndrome caused by an ectopic ACTH-secreting tumor, the tumor is

resected. For a year after cessation of high-dose corticosteroid therapy, even

minor illnesses can cause a full-blown ian collapse. If the tumor is

malignant and has metastasized and resection is not possible, treatment may

include a combination of chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and radiation therapy.

Drugs such as ketoconazole, aminoglutethimide, or metyrapone may also be

given to suppress cortisol metabolism and secretion. The European drug KH3 (the

active ingredient is procaine), which can block some of the cell-damaging

effects of cortisol and help protect against cortisol toxicity, is beneficial

for Cushing's disease. KH3 has been also known for its beneficial effects in

aging and depressed people (Cohen et al. 1974; Hall et al. 1983). A suggestion

would be to take 1-2 KH3 capsules in the morning on an empty stomach and 1-2 KH3

capsules in mid-afternoon, also on an empty stomach.

Natural Supplements to Treat ian States

a.. DHEA

b.. Licorice

c.. Pantothenic Acid

d.. L-Theanine

DHEA

Aging and diseases associated with aging can cause a decline in critical

hormones produced by the adrenal glands. Pregnenolone is converted into crucial

antiaging hormones such as dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), estrogen,

progesterone, and testosterone. DHEA supplementation may help to partly rectify

hormone imbalances caused by age-induced adrenal insufficiency.

An article in the journal Clinical Endocrinology described a study of the

effect of oral DHEA replacement therapy in women with 's disease

(Gebre-Medhin et al. 2000). The researchers found that DHEA and DHEA-sulfate

(DHEA-S) levels were restored to normal in those patients receiving 50 mg of

DHEA, whereas the DHEA-S level was slightly above the normal reference value in

those receiving 200 mg of DHEA. Circulating levels of androgens

(androstenedione, testosterone, and testosterone/SHBG ratio) were normalized in

all patients. No serious side effects were seen, but some of the patients

experienced increased apocrine sweat secretion (apocrine glands are in the

armpit, anal, genital, and breast areas and produce a strong odor), itchy scalp,

and acne, all of which were reversed when DHEA was discontinued. The authors

concluded that a daily replacement dose of 50 mg of DHEA results in near

physiological levels of DHEA, DHEA-S, androstenedione, and testosterone in women

with 's disease without severe side effects (Gebre-Medhin et al. 2000).

Another article described a randomized, double-blind study in which 39

patients with 's disease received 50 mg of oral DHEA daily for 12 weeks

(Hunt et al. 2000). After DHEA treatment, levels of DHEA-S and

delta-(4)-androstenedione rose from subnormal to within the adult physiological

range. Total testosterone increased from subnormal to low normal with a fall in

serum sex hormone-binding globulin in females, but with no change in either

parameter in males. In both sexes, psychological assessment showed significant

enhancement of self-esteem with a tendency for improved overall well-being. Mood

and fatigue also improved significantly, with benefit being evident in the

evenings. The authors concluded that DHEA replacement corrects this steroid

deficiency effectively and improves some aspects of psychological function.

These positive effects, in the absence of significant adverse events, suggest a

role for DHEA replacement therapy in the treatment of 's disease. Studies

suggest that low DHEA-S might be a prognostic marker and a sign of exhausted

adrenal glands (Hunt et al. 2000; Beishuizen et al. 2002) (before taking DHEA or

pregnenolone, refer to the Foundation's precautions in the DHEA Replacement

Therapy protocol and to the Autoimmune Diseases protocol for additional

suggestions).

Caution: Even mild 's disease requires expert physician

intervention and supervision. Glucocorticoid and mineralocorticoid component

drugs are prescribed for 's disease. Once cortisol levels are stabilized,

the serum levels of DHEA should be evaluated to determine if DHEA replacement

therapy is warranted. In the majority of cases, 's disease is caused by

an autoimmune attack on the adrenal glands. DHEA has been shown to suppress

inflammatory cytokines and thereby downregulate autoimmune reactions in the

body. In the past, infection, such as tuberculosis or meningitis, was the main

cause.

Licorice

Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra and Glycyrrhiza uralensis) is grown in Europe

and Asia. Licorice is highly prized medicinally in Chinese medicine. It is used

in almost all of the Chinese patent herbal formulas. Glycyrrhiza may be taken in

a variety of ways, including as a tea. It helps to reduce the amount of

hydrocortisone broken down by the liver, thereby reducing the workload of the

adrenal glands. Licorice is a well-loved candy for children, although most

commercial brands no longer contain real licorice. Instead commercial products

use anise seed and sugar, which taste similar. It is best to stay with teas or

supplements. Licorice was prescribed for 's disease until the 1930s.

Licorice is also a demulcent (an oily substance that reduces irritation), which

makes it soothing to the digestive tract. Deglycyrrhized licorice (DGL) is made

by removing the glycyrrhizin. For the adrenal effects, only real licorice should

be used, not DGL.

Caution: Long-term use of licorice containing more than 1 gram of

glycyrrhizin (the amount in approximately 10 grams of licorice root) daily can

cause increased blood pressure and water retention (edema) (Schambelan 1994).

High doses of licorice should only be taken under the care of a qualified health

professional.

Pantothenic Acid

Pantothenic acid (vitamin B5) activates the adrenal glands. It is a

precursor of acetyl CoA (a part of the Krebs's cycle which produces cellular

energy) and acetylcholine (a primary neurotransmitter). Pantothenic acid

deficiency results in adrenal insufficiency, which is characterized by fatigue,

headache, sleep disturbances, nausea, and abdominal discomfort (Tarasov et al.

1985; et al. 1996; Murray et al. 1997).

L-Theanine

L-theanine is an amino acid found in green tea that produces a calming

effect in the brain. It works by increasing gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) that

is a relaxer and creates a sense of well-being. L-theanine may be taken to help

modulate mood and relieve stress in many health conditions (Abe et al. 1995;

Kobayashi et al. 1998; Juneja et al. 1999).

Natural Supplements to Treat Cushing's Syndrome

a.. DHEA

b.. Vitamin C

c.. Phosphatidylserine

d.. Melatonin

DHEA

DHEA may help to protect against the overproduction of cortisol from the

adrenal glands and enhance the immune system. This is an important factor since

too much cortisol accelerates aging and causes immune system disorders. Studies

show that DHEA deficiency may actually debilitate immune status (Wisniewski

1993; Morio et al. 1996).

Vitamin C

Studies show that vitamin C and aspirin can attenuate and influence

cortisol, inducing an anti-inflammatory response to prolonged exercise and

stress. Vitamin C has been shown to reduce the elevation of cortisol in response

to heavy exercise. In human studies, 3000 mg of vitamin C daily mitigated a rise

in blood pressure, cortisol, and subjective response to acute psychological

stress (Di Luigi et al. 2001; s et al. 2001a, 2001b; Brody et al. 2002).

Phosphatidylserine (PS)

Phosphatidylserine is a phospholipid that is a structural component of the

biological membranes in animals and plants. In studies, supplemental PS has been

shown to improve mood and blunt the release of cortisol in response to physical

stress (Monteleone et al. 1990; 1999; Benton et al. 2001).

Melatonin

Melatonin is secreted by the pineal gland and functions to regulate

circadian rhythm and induce sleep. Melatonin circadian secretion in patients

with pituitary- or adrenal-dependent Cushing's syndrome was shown to be

significantly lower compared to healthy control groups. Studies also have shown

that nightly administration of 2 mg of melatonin increased the DHEA-S-cortisol

ratio after 6 months of treatment (Soszynski et al. 1989; Bruls et al. 2000;

Pawlikowski et al. 2002).

Natural Supplements to Treat Adrenal Fatigue

After an evaluation by a physician, if stress is determined to be the

cause of adrenal fatigue, the first goal is to relieve the stressful situations

as much as possible. Consider lifestyle changes, including diet modification and

exercise. Limit the consumption of processed foods, and avoid alcohol and

tobacco use because these substances put extra stress on the adrenal glands.

Many supplements recommended for either 's disease or Cushing's syndrome

may also be taken for general adrenal fatigue because they can help to support

healthy adrenal function, reduce stress, and blunt the release of excess

cortisol during stress. Consider the following:

a.. Vitamin C, 3000 mg a day

b.. DHEA, 50 mg a day

c.. L-theanine, 100-400 mg a day

d.. Pantothenic acid (vitamin B5), 1500 mg a day

e.. Melatonin, 300 mcg-6 mg (at bedtime)

f.. Phosphatidylserine capsules, 300 mg a day

g.. Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra), no more than 1000 mg of glycyrrhizin

Diet and 's Disease

A possible link between gluten sensitivity (celiac disease) and 's

disease has been proposed. An article in the Journal of Endocrinological

Investigation described a patient with celiac disease and multiple endocrine

disorders, including autoimmune 's disease and hypothyroidism (Valentino

et al. 1999). Over a 3-month period, on a gluten-free diet, the patient showed a

marked clinical improvement accompanied by a progressive decrease in the need

for thyroid and adrenal replacement therapies. After 6 months, the serum IgA

antiendomysium antibody test (used to confirm celiac disease) became negative.

After 12 months, a new jejunal biopsy showed complete mucosal recovery. (The

jejunum is the middle third of the small intestine.) After 18 months on a

gluten-free diet, the antithyroid antibodies titer decreased significantly, and

thyroid substitutive therapy was discontinued. The authors proposed a link

between autoimmune endocrine disease and celiac disease, noting that celiac

disease is one of the causes for the failure of substitute hormonal therapy in

patients with autoimmune thyroid disease (Valentino et al. 1999).

Summary

According to the National Adrenal Diseases Foundation (Great Neck, NY),

individuals who have 's disease as well as other diseases of the adrenal

glands are often misdiagnosed or go for long, distressful periods without a

correct diagnosis.

Symptoms of adrenal diseases often mirror those of chronic fatigue

syndrome, including steadily worsening exhaustion, a loss of appetite, and

weight loss. In 's disease, blood pressure is low and becomes even lower

when the person stands, producing lightheadedness. Because of salt loss, a

craving for salty foods is common. Darkened skin may appear as an inappropriate

tan on a person who is ill (NADF 1998).

Cushing's disease is the symmetrical overproduction of cortisol by the

adrenal glands. Cushing's syndrome is a constellation of signs and symptoms due

to chronic overexposure to adrenal corticosteroids. Symptoms may include central

obesity, wasting of the arms and legs (thin extremities), a reddish moon face,

buffalo hump, a protuberant abdomen, and pigmented stretch marks (striae). Many

people experience severe fatigue, weak muscles, high blood pressure, and high

blood sugar. Irritability, anxiety, and depression are also common.

Adrenal fatigue can be caused by constant stress or poor nutrition, which

can deplete and weaken the adrenal glands. There are many symptoms associated

with this disorder, mostly fatigue and weakness. In some fatigued patients,

thyroid problems overlap or are concomitant with adrenal problems.

a.. If you suspect that you have some form of adrenal disease, seek

professional medical treatment from a physician.

b.. Identify and relieve sources of stress. Consider meditation or other

stress-relieving exercises.

c.. Consider lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise.

d.. Obtain baseline corticosteroid, DHEA, and pregnenolone levels.

e.. Avoid smoking. Nicotine in tobacco initially raises cortisol levels,

but chronic use results in low DHEA, testosterone, and progesterone levels.

f.. Consider laboratory testing for celiac disease (gluten sensitivity)

and starting a gluten-free diet.

g.. If available, consider physician-administered injections of ACE

(adrenal cortical extract) from a reliable source for 3-7 days.

h.. Hydrocortisone tablets (one of several forms available by

prescription) may be taken up to 4 times daily for 3-7 days to treat 's

disease (adrenal insufficiency). Physician supervision is mandatory.

The following natural supplements are recommended for 's disease:

1.. DHEA, 50 mg daily and/or pregnenolone 50 mg daily, based on

appropriate laboratory tests (see the DHEA Replacement Therapy protocol for more

information and precautions).

2.. Licorice tea or capsules to provide glycyrrhizin, no more than 1000

mg of glycyrrhizin should be taken in a given day and physician supervision is

advised to guard against blood pressure increase and water retention.

3.. Pantothenic acid (vitamin B5), 1500 mg daily.

4.. Vitamin C, 1000-3000 mg daily, in divided doses.

5.. L-theanine may be taken to help modulate mood and relieve stress,

one 100-mg capsule up to 4 times a day.

6.. Phosphatidylserine, 100-300 mg daily.

The following natural supplements are recommended for Cushing's syndrome:

1.. DHEA, 50 mg daily, or pregnenolone, 50 mg daily, based on

appropriate laboratory tests (see the DHEA Replacement Therapy protocol for more

information and precautions).

2.. Vitamin C, 4000 mg daily, in divided doses.

3.. One enterically coated aspirin tablet (325 mg). (Enteric coatings

prevent the tablet from dissolving in the stomach.)

4.. Phosphatidylserine, 300 mg daily.

5.. Melatonin, 300 mcg-6 mg nightly.

Physician supervision is essential. To guard against underlying

micronutrient deficiencies that could contribute to adrenal disease, take a

high-potency multinutrient supplement such as Life Extension Mix (3 tablets 3

times a day).

For more information

Contact the American College for the Advancement of Medicine, (800)

532-3688, for a physician in your area who practices complementary medicine.

Contact the National Adrenal Diseases Foundation for support, information,

and education for individuals who have 's disease as well as other

diseases of the adrenal glands, (516) 487-4992.

Product availability

DHEA and pregnenolone capsules, licorice capsules, pantothenic acid

(vitamin B5), vitamin C powder and capsules, phosphatidylserine (PS) capsules,

melatonin, and L-theanine can be ordered by telephoning (800) 544-4440 or by

ordering online. ACE is not approved by the FDA for conventional use at this

time.