Everyone is born with a specific body type, yet unfortunately, modern society has its idea of how it should look. To be honest, millions of people are born with a body that will never be ‘thin’ no matter how much they diet or exercise.

The adrenal body type is the most common of all body types and comprises a stocky figure with shoulders broader than the hips. With a grounded stance and medium to large bone structure. Adrenal body types can be both short and tall. The adrenal body type varies from other body types in that someone who is not naturally thin may show excess body fat differently than someone with a thin, lean frame.

People with an adrenal body type can quickly build muscle mass but also put on unwanted weight. The added pounds typically appear around the midsection, thighs, face and can also develop a “buffalo hump” made up of excess skin at the top of the back.

WHAT ARE THE ADRENAL GLANDS?

Located on the tops of both kidneys, the adrenal glands are small triangular-shaped glands that produce hormones to help balance a person’s metabolism, blood pressure, and immune system. When people are under stress or feel tired, the adrenal glands release a steroid hormone called cortisol. If you are constantly under pressure to deliver a project by a specific deadline or are not getting enough sleep, the release of cortisol becomes a perpetual cycle.

Adrenal fatigue weight gain 

Signs of adrenal gland disorders are:

• A round face and neck and obesity
• Skin problems such as acne or discolored streaks under the arms or on the stomach
• High blood pressure 
• High blood sugar

How to break the cycle

Because your body has no way of knowing if this is just a temporary thing, it starts to store fat in case you need it. To get out of this cycle and to stop gaining unwanted pounds, here are a few ways you can help regulate your adrenal glands:

• Get a good night’s sleep
• Meditate or perform breathing exercises
• Think positive
• Eat a healthy diet
• Exercise but don’t over-exercise

It is all about lowering the body’s stress level and maintaining a healthy balance between life and work.

Adrenal body type diet

Before starting a diet for your adrenal glands, remember that regular mealtimes play an essential part. Never skip breakfast, even if it just means a piece of fruit or juice. Make sure you add plenty of protein in the form of poultry and sea fish. Also, if you can, have your big meal of the day at lunchtime. People in Mediterranean countries practice this to not go to bed at night on a full stomach.

Foods to eat on the adrenal  diet include:

• Vegetables and green leafy salads
• Fruit that is low in sugar like watermelon, strawberries and kiwi’s
• Chicken
• Seafood because ocean fish is high in vitamins and minerals
• Eggs
• Nuts
• Whole grains

When cooking, use only olive oil and never deep fry. Also, remember that it is essential to stay hydrated as dehydration can force your adrenal glands to produce cortisol.

Foods to avoid when on an adrenal diet:

Avoid white flour, white bread, white rice, and pasta. Stay away from pork and salty foods, especially crisps and pretzels.

Foods that contain trans fats and some processed foods are bad for you as they can stimulate the adrenal glands making you feel good. This does not last long, and then you find your body craving more.

If you are considering an adrenal diet, it is always recommended to consult with your doctor or a medical professional first.