What's the difference between nitrates and nitrites?

These chemical compounds are found in wildly different foods, but how they got there is an important detail to monitor.

Sodium nitrate and sodium nitrite, two common preservatives used in foods, are often used interchangeably. So it comes as no surprise that many people don’t know the difference between the two. What it comes down to is one oxygen atom — sodium nitrite has two oxygen atoms and one nitrogen atom. Sodium nitrate has one more oxygen atom.

Either kind of preservative can be added to meat to keep bacteria from growing on it, but once we consume them, nitrates are converted to nitrites in our digestive system. And what’s the harm in nitrites, you might ask?

In the human body, nitrites form nitrosamines, which have been associated with various cancers. In 2005, a study at the University of Hawaii linked consumption of processed meats to a 67 percent increase in the risk for pancreatic cancer. Yet another more recent study links eating too much processed meats to heart disease and diabetes. Interestingly enough, the researchers did not find that eating unprocessed meat at the same rate led to nearly the same risk. What’s the difference in the meats that contain similar amounts of saturated fat and cholesterol? The processed meats had four times the amount of sodium and 50 percent more sodium nitrite.

There are hot dog brands that claim that no nitrates have been added to the meat. A closer look at the label reveals that most of these hot dogs actually contain celery powder, which contains nitrates that occur naturally in said vegetable. There are, in fact, many vegetables that contain nitrates — beets, for example, as well as a variety of leafy greens. So are these nitrates any better for us than the ones put in artificially?

A 2008 report by the European Food Safety Authority states that there is no reported risk of eating high amounts of nitrates in vegetables. As a matter of fact, the benefits of eating those vegetables far outweigh the risks. The nitrates in those vegetables don’t have the same effect on our bodies as the ones that are artificially added to meats ­­because these veggies also contain vitamins C and D, which inhibit the formation of those N-nitroso compounds. On the other hand, some data suggests that very high levels of nitrate consumption can cause gastric problems.

So what to do when it comes to nitrate-containing food? Moderation is the key to success.

I also want to mention the rare but dangerous scenario of excess nitrates in food or water fed to infants, particularly infants who are younger than 3 months old. Excess nitrates can lead to nitrate poisoning, known as “blue baby syndrome,” where the nitrates in the baby’s blood build up so much that it prevents the hemoglobin from carrying oxygen to where it needs to go.

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that if you feed your newborn well water (as is the case in some municipalities if you formula feed and mix your formula with water from the tap), you should have your water tested for nitrate content, since the greatest risk of nitrate poisoning occurs in infants fed well water contaminated with high nitrate levels. (Nitrate poisoning is also possible when babies younger than 3 months are fed homemade baby food from nitrate-containing vegetables, but is less of a problem since you really shouldn’t be feeding a baby that young anything but formula or breast milk anyway.) The nitrate concentration of the water should be less than 10 parts per million.

http://www.mnn.com/food/healthy-eating/stories/whats-the-difference-between-nitrates-and-nitrites

5 Signs of Hormonal Imbalance

Do you feel like something is just not right? You’re not sick, you’re not in physical pain. But something just isn’t quite letting you feel 100%? It could be your hormones!

If you’re eating more, sleeping less, and feeling frazzled and stressed out are your default emotions, even when things are going pretty good for you. It’s likely you’ve got a hormone imbalance. 

Symptoms do vary, and it’s best to check that everything is A-OK with your health professional before making assumptions, but if you’re saying yes to some or all of these five signs below, then it’s time to check your hormones:

1. You Feel Constantly Tired

Chronic stress tends to leave us feeling fat, frazzled and frumpy thanks to high levels of cortisol taxing our adrenals and fluctuating our feelings from being highly stressed to totally exhausted and no real in-between. When your adrenals are pushed to their limits, they start to protest and not function optimally, resulting in lethargy, low mood and a foggy head.  

2. Your Cravings Are Intense

If you’re finding yourself feeling addicted to chocolate, or constantly ravenous for all kinds of food (and drinks!), then your hormones may be playing up. High cortisol or insulin can cause intense urges for wine or sugar, whilst electrolyte imbalances caused by adrenal dysregulation may have you reaching for the salty snacks. 

3. You’re Putting On Weight Or Can’t Shift Those Pesky Pounds

You may be exercising regularly and eating really well, but the weight just doesn’t budge. Then perhaps you tried to overcompensate by exercises for longer and harder, and eating even less. But still nothing changed! Sound familiar? Your hormones play a key role in your metabolism and how much weight you hold onto. No matter how hard you workout, if you’ve got a hormonal imbalance, you’ll have extreme difficulty dropping those last few pounds. Balance your hormones first by getting the all clear from your health professional, then adopt appropriate lifestyle and dietary choices for your body’s needs. You may even need to exercise less!

4. You’ve Lost Your Sex Drive

Despite the media portraying women’s interest in sex as a psychological issue, estrogen is a woman’s main controller of libido. A dominance or low level of estrogen can result in a lack of sex drive. The same goes for low testosterone levels for men. Plus, if you’re stressed and not getting much sleep, it’s likely high cortisol levels are playing a role in this too! It’s no wonder sex is the last thing on your mind!

5. Your Mood Is Unpredictable

Moodiness is often labelled as PMS in women and seen as something we just have to put up with. Whilst we can’t always control nature, women who have balanced hormones tend to not have such extreme mood swings throughout their cycle. If you’ve cleaned up your diet and lead a healthy lifestyle, yet still find yourself swinging from high to low moods quite severely, then it may be time to check your hormones. 

There are many things we can do to keep our hormones happy such as meditation, yoga, reconnecting with nature, limiting caffeine, having less ‘screen’ time, eating healthy fats, reducing our intake of sugar, and getting adequate sleep. These changes take time so if you’re feeling overwhelmed with the thought of changing your lifestyle cold-turkey, try one or a few changes that you can implement initially and build on the hormone-healthy habits over time.


Reposted from: 
http://foodmatters.tv/content/5-signs-your-hormones-are-out-of-whack?utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=FM+NL+Sep+9+2015&utm_content=FM+NL+Sep+9+2015+CID_91096a943e397e45fc36f4e268f06b9e&utm_source=Campaign%20Monitor%20Email%20Marketing&utm_term=5%20key%20signs%20that%20your%20hormones%20are%20out%20of%20whack

Adrenal insufficiency and Hypothyroidism, interlinked.

Anyone who has seen ballroom dancing would notice how well they are choreographed, one person leading the other into an endless motion of grace. Your body works in this same synchronistic fashion, a dance that leads from step to step. When one step is misplaced the motion that was once graceful and elegant becomes horsey and clumsy into a free fall. Same thing happens to your hormones, a cascade effect from one hormone creates health, but when one is out of step with another it lead to long-term health issues. Issues that you may think are associated with one organ when really it's dependency of function is from all hormones. 

Same goes for the thyroid hormone and adrenal stress or insufficiency. The adrenals are little organs that sit atop your kidneys. They introduce the "fight or flight" or what we experience today, chronic cortisol release, that leads to a host of health related issues: including hypothyroidism, diabetes type II, cancer, heart disease.... the list goes on.

To understand the correlation between the thyroid and adrenals here's a study from 2006 that states that thyroid hormone replacement therapy is unwarranted if adrenal insufficiency is in action. Oddly enough I don't see enough of this correlation in treatment with the patients I see, they are automatically put on a thyroid hormone, based on test thyroid hormone results, without looking at the whole endocrine function and where it misplaced it's step. 
__________________________________________________________________________

Reversible subclinical hypothyroidism in the presence of adrenal insufficiency.

Abdullatif HD1, Ashraf AP.

To describe 3 different scenarios of reversible hypothyroidism in young patients with adrenal insufficiency.

We present 3 case reports of patients with adrenal insufficiency--one with delayed puberty, the second with type 1 diabetes and poor weight gain, and the third with hypoglycemia-related seizures and glucocorticoid deficiency--who had biochemical evidence of hypothyroidism.

Our first patient (case 1) initially had a mildly elevated thyrotropin (thyroid-stimulating hormone or TSH) level and a normal free thyroxine (FT4) level that, on follow-up assessment, had progressed to persistent mild elevation of TSH and low FT4 concentration. The other 2 patients (cases 2 and 3) had low FT4 and mildly elevated TSH values at the time of diagnosis of adrenal insufficiency. In all 3 patients, the results of thyroid function tests normalized with use of physiologic doses of adrenal hormone replacement therapy, without thyroid hormone replacement. All 3 patients remained euthyroid after 4, 3, and 1 year of follow-up, respectively.

These observations add insights into the complexities of the thyroadrenal interactions. These examples are important because thyroid hormone replacement in the setting of adrenal insufficiency could be unwarranted.

__________________________________________________________________________

When it comes to hormones, it's all about the big picture, this is where modern medicine falls down, hard on a cement floor. They look to solve the issue not deal with the underlying problem, solve the symptoms does not solve the problem it masks it, adding pills can create a host of other issues and side effects that lead to more pills and more side effects. 

For those that are on hormone therapy I would get your panel tested again WITH additional cortisol levels so that you can accurately see where the endocrine cascade has gone awry. 

For those who would like a little more holistic at the dinner table. Here's some good and not so great foods that you can intake to help with your hypothyroidism. I don't agree with adding more dairy but more Vitamin D supplements and foods, would be better option.

9 Foods to Avoid With Hypothyroidism

Foods to Avoid

Hypothyroidism can be a tricky condition to manage, and what you eat can interfere with your treatment. Some nutrients heavily influence the function of the thyroid gland, and certain foods can inhibit your body's ability to absorb the replacement hormones you may take as part of your thyroid treatment. There's no such thing as a "hypothyroidism diet" that will make you well, but eating smart can help you feel better despite the condition. Here are nine foods to limit or avoid as you manage hypothyroidism:

Soy

The hormone estrogen can interfere with your body's ability to use thyroid hormone, says Stephanie Lee, MD, PhD associate chief of endocrinology, nutrition, and diabetes at Boston Medical Center and an associate professor at the Boston University School of Medicine. Soy is loaded with plant-based phytoestrogen, and some researchers believe too much soy may increase a person's risk for hypothyroidism. People with hypothyroidism should moderate their intake of soy. However, because soy hasn't been definitively linked to hypothyroidism, there are no specific dietary guidelines.

Cruciferous Vegetables

Cruciferous vegetables, such as broccoli and cabbage, can interfere with the production of thyroid hormone, particularly people who have an iodine deficiency. Digesting these vegetables can block the thyroid's ability to absorb iodine, which is essential for normal thyroid function. People with hypothyroidism may want to limit their intake of broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, kale, turnips, and bok choy. Cooking the vegetables can reduce the effect that cruciferous vegetables have on the thyroid gland. Limiting your intake to 5 ounces a day appears to have no adverse effect on thyroid function.

Gluten

People with hypothyroidism may want to consider minimizing their intake of gluten, a protein found in foods processed from wheat, barley, rye, and other grains, says Ruth Frechman, RDN, a dietitian and nutritionist in the Los Angeles area and a spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. Gluten can irritate the small intestine and may hamper absorption of thyroid hormone replacement medication.

However, if you do choose to eat gluten, be sure to choose whole-grains varieties of bread, pasta, and rice, which are high in fiber and other nutrients and can help improve bowel irregularity, a common symptom of hypothyroidism. Also be sure to take your hypothyroidism medication several hours before or after eating high-fiber foods to prevent them from interfering with the absorption of your synthetic thyroid hormone.

Fatty Foods

Fats have been found to disrupt the body's ability to absorb thyroid hormone replacement medicines, Dr. Lee says. Fats may also interfere with the thyroid's ability to produce hormone as well. Some health care professionals recommend that you cut out all fried foods and reduce your intake of fats from sources such as butter, mayonnaise, margarine, and fatty cuts of meat.

Sugary Foods

Hypothyroidism can cause the body's metabolism to slow down, Frechman says. That means it's easy to put on pounds if you aren't careful. "You want to avoid the foods with excess amounts of sugar because it's a lot of calories with no nutrients," she says. It's best to reduce the amount of sugar you eat or try to eliminate it completely from your diet.

Processed Foods

"Processed foods tend to have a lot of sodium, and people with hypothyroidism should avoid sodium," Frechman says. Having an underactive thyroid increases a person's risk for high blood pressure, and too much sodium further increases this risk. Read the Nutrition Facts label on the packaging of processed foods to find options lowest in sodium. People with an increased risk for high blood pressure should restrict their sodium intake to 1,500 milligrams a day, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Excess Fiber

Getting enough fiber is good for you, but too much can complicate your hypothyroidism treatment. Guidelines currently recommend that older adults take in 20 to 35 grams of fiber a day. Amounts of dietary fiber from whole grains, vegetables, fruits, beans, and legumes that go above that level affect your digestive system and can interfere with absorption of thyroid hormone replacement drugs. If you're on a high-fiber diet, ask your doctor if you need a higher dose of thyroid medication. Your maintenance dose may need to be increased if you aren't absorbing enough medication.

Coffee

Caffeine has been found to block absorption of thyroid hormone replacement, Lee says. "People who were taking their thyroid medication with their morning coffee had uncontrollable thyroid levels, and we couldn't figure it out," she says. "I now have to be very careful to tell people, 'Only take your medication with water.'" You should wait at least 30 minutes after taking your medication before having a cup of joe.

Alcohol

Alcohol consumption can wreak havoc on both thyroid hormone levels in the body and the ability of the thyroid to produce hormone. Alcohol appears to have a toxic effect on the thyroid gland and suppresses the ability of the body to use thyroid hormone. Ideally, people with hypothyroidism should cut out alcohol completely or drink in careful moderation.

7 Hypothyroidism-Friendly Foods to Add to Your Diet

Eat Right to Support Thyroid Function

When you have hypothyroidism, or an underactive thyroid, symptoms can include fatigue, depression, constipation, and other more serious health concerns. Fortunately, eating certain foods can help boost the effectiveness of your thyroid — a little butterfly-shaped gland in your neck with a big role in how well your body works.

The thyroid produces hormones that regulate mood, metabolism, energy levels, body temperature, heart rate, and blood pressure. Hypothyroidism occurs when this gland isn't producing enough hormones. Along with taking your thyroid medication, you can bolster thyroid function with a well-balanced diet that includes lots of produce and protein, among other healthy foods, says Gregory B. Dodell, MD, an endocrinologist in New York City. The next time you're at the grocery store, look for these seven nutrient-rich foods.

Fish

The omega-3 fatty acids found in fatty fish such as wild salmon, trout, tuna, or sardines make this food an excellent choice for lunch or dinner, says Virginia Turner, MS, RD, LDN, clinical nutrition manager at The University of Tennessee Medical Center in Knoxville. Unmanaged hypothyroidism can increase the risk for heart disease as a result of higher levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL), the "bad" cholesterol. "Omega-3s are known to decrease inflammation, help with immunity, and lower the risk for heart disease," she adds. Fish is also a good source of the nutrient selenium, which is most concentrated in the thyroid. Selenium also helps decrease inflammation.

Nuts

Another great source of selenium, nuts make a handy snack that you can take anywhere. They also go well in salads or stir-fries. Brazil nuts, macadamia nuts, and hazelnuts are all particularly high in selenium, which helps the thyroid function properly. With Brazil nuts, you only need to eat one or two; with other nuts, a small handful is enough to get your daily nutrients — and be sure to keep an eye on portion size, as nuts are also very high fat.

Whole Grains

Constipation is a common symptom of hypothyroidism. Whole-grain foods such as cereal, bread, pasta, and rice are high in nutrients in addition to fiber, which can help with bowel regularity. However, fiber can interfere with synthetic thyroid hormones, cautions Turner. Some people with hypothyroidism choose to avoid whole-grains altogether, but if you do choose to eat them, "the recommendation is to take your thyroid medication several hours before or after eating foods rich in dietary fiber," she says.

Fresh Fruits and Vegetables

An early symptom of hypothyroidism is weight gain. Low-calorie, high-density foods such as fresh produce are the cornerstone of every successful weight loss program. Include either fresh fruits or veggies at each meal, if possible. Specific foods such as blueberries, cherries, sweet potatoes, and green peppers are also rich in antioxidants, nutrients that are known to lower risk for heart disease.

However, people with hypothyroidism may want to limit their intake of cruciferous vegetables, such as broccoli and cabbage, to 5 ounces a day, as they can block the thyroid's ability to absorb iodine, which is essential for normal thyroid function.

Seaweed

Seaweed has a high concentration of iodine, an essential nutrient for thyroid function. "Iodine is the precursor for the production of thyroid hormone," Dr. Dodell explains. Seaweed, packaged as nori, wakame, and dulse, can be used in sushi, soups, and salads. Another plus: Seaweed offers nutritional benefits of fiber, calcium, and vitamins A, B, C, E, and K.

It is possible to have too much iodine, which can worsen thyroid disease, Dodell cautions. However, according to the American Thyroid Association the likelihood of this is greater if you're taking supplements that contain iodine. Be sure to talk with your physician before increasing your iodine intake.

Dairy

There is an association between vitamin D deficiency and Hashimoto's disease, the most common cause of hypothyroidism, according to a study in the issue of August 2011 issue of the journal "Thyroid". Fortified milk not only has added vitamin D, but also significant amounts of calcium, protein, and iodine. Because Hashimoto's may also lead to changes that contribute to gut issues like heartburn, foods such as yogurt with good bacteria may help regulate other bacteria, Dodell says.

Beans

An inexpensive and versatile food, beans are a great source for sustained energy, which can be helpful if hypothyroidism leaves you feeling drained. Beans contain protein, antioxidants, complex carbohydrates, and loads of vitamins and minerals. They are also high in fiber, which can be beneficial if you suffer with constipation, a common side effect of hypothyroidism. If you're new to beans, there are many varieties to try, all of which can be used as the base for entrées, as side dishes, and to enhance soups, salads, and stews. Just be sure not to overdo it — guidelines recommend that adults get 20 to 35 grams of fiber each day, but excess fiber can interfere with your hypothyroidism treatment.

35 Quick and Healthy Low-Calorie Lunches

Sandwiches/Wraps

1. Hawaiian Veggie burger: 380 calories. Why it rules: Avocado is a great swap [2] for mayonnaise because it’s full of healthy monosaturated fats. 1 whole-wheat bun: 90 calories, 1 veggie burger patty: 100 calories , ¼ avocado, mashed: 68 calories, 1 round of pineapple: 25 calories, 2 tablespoons BBQ sauce: 15 calories, 1 handful alfalfa sprouts: 5 calories. 

3. Crunchy Tuna Wrap: 382 calories. Why it rules: Greek yogurt makes this tuna salad just as creamy as the classic mayo would, but without all the extra fat and cholesterol! 1 whole-wheat wrap: 130 calories, ½ a 6oz.-can of tuna: 90 calories, ¼ cup non-fat Greek yogurt: 30 calories, ½ a celery stalk, chopped: 5 calories, 3 slices roasted red peppers: 30 calories, 1 handful of baby spinach: 5 calories, 1 squeeze of lemon juice: <1 calorie. 

4. Turkey Wrap: 365 calories. Why it rules: Turkey is a tasty and lean source of protein. Bonus points for choosing the low-sodium kind! 1 whole-wheat wrap: 130 calories, 3 slices deli turkey: 90 calories, 2 tablespoons hummus: 60 calories, 1 tablespoon goat cheese: 60 calories, 1 handful baby spinach: 5 calories. 

5. Mediterranean Burger: 400 calories. Why it rules: Subbing turkey for the traditional beef saves some calories without sacrificing flavor. 1 whole-wheat bun: 90 calories, 1 turkey burger patty: 140 calories, 2 tablespoons feta cheese: 50 calories, 2 slices tomato: 10 calories, 1 round slice red onion: 5 calories, 1 handful spinach: 5 calories.

6. Spiced Chickpea Pita: 350 calories Why it rules: Try this spin on a traditional falafel sandwich without fried chickpeas. 1 whole-wheat pita: 80 calories, ½ a chicken breast : 100 calories, ¼ cup chickpeas: 70 calories, ¼ cup Greek yogurt: 30 calories, 1 sprinkle parsley: <1 calorie, 1 sprinkle oregano: <1 calorie. 

7. Spicy Black Bean Burrito: 365 calories. Why it rules: Black beans are an awesome source of fiber. 1 whole-wheat wrap: 130 calories, ¼ cup black beans: 60 calories, ¼ avocado, sliced: 60 calories, ¼ small red onion, sliced: 10 calories, 1 teaspoon hot sauce: 5 calories. 

8. Grilled Cheese with Tomato and Turkey: 345 calories. Why it rules: This healthier version of a grilled cheese has no butter and adds in turkey for extra protein! 2 slices whole-wheat bread: 180 calories, 3 slices deli turkey: 90 calories, 1 slice provolone: 70 calories, 1 small spritz olive-oil spray (to grease pan panini press!): 5 calories. 

9. Grilled Chicken and Cheese Sandwich: 395 calories. Why it rules: Low-fat mayo is a great swap for the full-fat version! 2 slices whole-wheat bread: 180 calories, ½ a chicken breast [11], sliced: 100 calories, 1 slice Swiss cheese: 70 calories, 2 teaspoons low-fat mayo: 35 calories, 2 slices tomato: 10 calories, 1 leaf butter lettuce: 5 calories.

10. Pizza Burger: 360 calories. Why it rules: Say so long cravings for greasy pizza thanks to this burger that’s also filled with protein. 1 whole-wheat bun: 90 calories, 1 veggie burger patty: 100 calories, 2 slices fresh mozzarella cheese: 140 calories, 2 tablespoons marinara sauce: 40 calories. 

11. Veggie Sub: 380 calories. Why it rules: Get your daily serving of veggies and them some with this flavorful sandwich. 1x 6-inch whole-wheat sub roll: 220 calories, 2 tablespoons hummus: 60 calories, ¼ cucumber, sliced: 15 calories, 1 small tomato, sliced: 10 calories, 5 black olives, halved: 40 calories, ½ carrot, shredded: 30 calories, 1 handful alfalfa sprouts: 5 calories. 

12. Curried Chicken Pita With Cranberries and Pear: 375 calories. Why it rules: No mayo (aka added fat and empty calories!) needed for this tasty chicken salad. 1 whole-wheat pita: 80 calories, 1/2 a chicken breast, diced: 100 calories, ¼ cup non-fat Greek yogurt: 30 calories, 2 tablespoons dried cranberries: 45 calories, 1/2 pear, diced: 45 calories, 1 teaspoon honey mustard: 5 calories, 1/2 teaspoon curry powder: <1 calorie, 1 squeeze lemon juice: <1 calorie. 

13. Caesar Salmon Wrap: 364 calories. Why it rules: Light dressing and heart-healthy salmon [15] make this a winning wrap. 1 whole-wheat pita: 80 calories, 1 5oz.-can of salmon: 120 calories, 2 tablespoons light Caesar dressing: 60 calories, 1 tablespoon grated parmesan cheese: 25 calories, 1 handful spinach: 5 calories. 

14. Egg, Tomato, and Avocado Sandwich: 385 calories. Why it rules: This sandwich is leaner and green than a traditional bacon, egg, and cheese. And delicious any time of day. 1 English muffin: 120 calories, 1 large egg, fried: 75 calories, 1 teaspoon olive oil: 40 calories, ¼ avocado, sliced: 60 calories, 2 slices tomato: 10 calories. 

15. Ham, Pear, and Swiss Sandwich: 395 calories. Why it rules: Deli ham is leaner than its Christmas dinner version, but still packed with protein. Choose a low-sodium version for best results.

2 slices whole-wheat bread: 180 calories, 3 slices deli ham: 100 calories, 1 slice Swiss cheese: 70 calories, 1/2 pear, sliced: 45, 1 teaspoon honey mustard: 5 calories. 

16. TBLT: 375 calories. Why it rules: Turkey bacon is a leaner than regular bacon, but is still full of crispy deliciousness! 2 slices whole-wheat bread: 180 calories, 3 slices turkey bacon: 130 calories, 2 slices tomato: 10 calories, 1 leaf Romaine lettuce, 5 calories, 1 tablespoon low-fat mayo: 50 calories. 

17. Roast Beef and Horseradish Sandwich: 385 calories. Why it rules: Impress your co-workers with this tasty lunch that’s full of calcium, too. (Thanks, mozzarella!)

2 slices whole-wheat bread: 180 calories, 2 slices deli roast beef: 100 calories, 1 thick slice fresh mozzarella cheese: 70 calories, 1 tablespoon horseradish sauce: 30 calories, 1 leaf Romaine lettuce: 5 calories. Side Snack: 1 large peach (70 calories)

18. Tangy Shrimp and Avocado Wrap: 377 calories. Why it rules: Shrimp is a filling, low-calorie lunch option that tastes great with our beloved avocado. 1 whole-wheat wrap: 130 calories, 6 pre-cooked shrimps, chopped: 42 calories, ¼ avocado, sliced: 60 calories, ¼ cucumber, sliced: 15 calories, ¼ cup Greek yogurt: 30 calories, 1 squeeze lemon juice: <1 calorie, Garlic, salt, and pepper to taste. 

Salads/Platters

20. Greek Pita Salad: 368 calories. Why it rules: Protein-packed chickpeas and naturally lower-fat feta spice up this salad.

1 cup romaine lettuce: 8 calories, ½ whole-wheat pita, sliced: 40 calories, ¼ cup feta cheese: 100 calories, ¼ cup chickpeas: 70 calories, ½ cucumber, sliced: 30 calories, ¼ small red onion, chopped: 10 calories, 2 tablespoons Greek dressing: 110 calories. 

21. Garden Pasta Salad: 395 calories. Why it rules: Whole-wheat pasta is a great substitute for the white version (if you're not gluten sensitive). ½ cup left-over whole wheat pasta: 110 calories, ½ a chicken breast [11], sliced: 100 calories, 1 thick slice fresh mozzarella cheese: 70 calories, 4 kalamata olives, sliced: 60 calories, ½ green pepper, sliced: 10 calories, ½ carrot, shredded: 30 calories, 2 tablespoons fat-free Italian dressing 15 calories. 

23. Lentil Salad with Poached Eggs: 390 calories. Why it rules: Lentils are one of our Superfoods thanks to their hefty dose of protein and antioxidants! ½ cup canned lentils: 120 calories, ½ cup spinach (sautéed with 1 teaspoon olive oil): 50 calories, 2 large eggs, poached : 150 calories, ¼ avocado, sliced: 60 calories, 2 slices tomato: 10 calories. 

24. Sprout n' Spinach Salad: 381 calories. Why it rules: This salad is packed with two of our favorite superfoods — spinach and avocado. 2 cups baby spinach: 14 calories, 1/2 avocado, diced: 120 calories, 1 handful alfalfa sprouts: 5 calories, 1/2 orange bell pepper, diced: 12 calories, 1/2 carrot, grated: 30 calories, 2 tablespoons hummus mixed with 1 tablespoons olive oil: 170 calories. : 1/2 an apple and 1 low-fat cheese stick (110 calories)

25. Tarragon Chicken Salad: 400 calories. Why it rules: Walnuts are filled with good fats that can help boost brainpower. 1 cup spinach: 7 calories, ½ a chicken breast , sliced: 100 calories, ¼ cup Greek yogurt: 30 calories, ¼ cup walnuts: 160 calories, ¼ cup dried cranberries: 90 calories, 1 stalk celery, chopped: 5 calories, 2 slices tomato: 10 calories, 1 tablespoon fresh tarragon, chopped: < 1 calorie, 1 squeeze lemon juice: < 1 calorie. 

26. Sweet Potato and Shitake Mushroom Salad: 370 calories. Why it rules: Sweet potatoes are filled with fiber and vitamins! 1 cup spinach: 5 calories, 1 cooked sweet potato, sliced: 100 calories, 4 shitake mushrooms, sliced: 40 calories, ¼ cup feta cheese: 100 calories, 2 slices tomato: 10 calories, 1 tablespoon olive oil: 110 calories, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: 5 calories, 1 squeeze lemon juice: < 1 calorie. 

27. Chicken and Rice Stir-Fry: 380 calories. Why it rules: Brown rice is richer in fiber and protein than it’s white cousin. ½ cup ready-made brown rice: 100 calories, ½ a chicken breast, sliced: 100 calories, 4 shitake mushrooms, sliced: 40 calories, ½ red pepper, sliced: 10 calories, ½ green pepper, sliced: 10 calories, ¼ small red onion, sliced: 10 calories, 1 tablespoon olive oil: 110 calories. 

28. Rice n’ Refried Beans: 400 calories. Why it rules: Pinto beans are a great source of fiber and iron. ½ cup ready-made brown rice: 100 calories, ½ cup canned pinto beans, mashed: 130 calories, ¼ avocado, sliced: 60 calories, ¼ small red onion, sliced: 10 calories, 1 plum tomato, diced: 10 calories. 

29. Stuffed Sweet Potato: 365 calories. Why it rules: Greek yogurt is a great swap for sour cream on this potato. 1 cooked sweet potato, sliced: 100 calories, 3 slices cooked turkey bacon, crumbled: 130 calories, ¼ cup Greek yogurt: 30 calories, 1/2 scallion, chopped: 5 calories. 

30. Mediterranean Platter: 370 calories. Why it rules: Babaganoush (roasted eggplant) is a great alternative to full-fat dips. 1 whole-wheat pita, sliced: 80 calories, ¼ cup hummus: 150 calories, ¼ cup babaganoush: 100 calories, 5 black olives: 40 calories. 

31. Healthy Stir-Fried Rice: 365 calories. Why it rules: DIY fried-rice with olive oil is way healthier than any Chinese take-out. ½ cup ready-made brown rice: 100 calories, 1 egg, scrambled with 1 teaspoon olive oil: 115 calories, 4 bella mushrooms, sliced: 40 calories, 1 cup broccoli, chopped: 30 calories, ½ carrot, chopped: 30 calories, ¼ small red onion, sliced: 10 calories, 1 teaspoon sesame oil: 40 calories.

32. Veggie Patty with Over-Easy Egg: 390 calories. Why it rules: Filled with protein and healthy fats, this combo will satisfy even the heartiest of appetites. 1 veggie burger patty: 100 calories, 1 slice cheddar cheese: 70 calories, 1 large egg, over-easy cooked with olive-oil spray: 80 calories, ¼ avocado, sliced: 60 calories. 

33. 3-Bean Salad with Kale: 350 calories. Why it rules: Fiber filled beans on top of vitamin-rich kale make this a winning meal. 1 cup kale: 30 calories, 1 squeeze lime juice, < 1 calorie, 1 squeeze lemon juice, < 1 calorie, ¼ avocado, chopped: 60 calories, ¼ cup black beans: 55 calories, ¼ cup white beans: 50 calories, ¼ cup kidney beans: 50 calories. 

34. Fresh Mozzarella and Tomato Salad: 345 calories. Why it rules: The health benefits of tomatoes are endless, including helping reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and certain cancers. 3 thick slices fresh mozzarella cheese: 210 calories, 2 plum tomatoes, sliced: 20 calories, 3 basil leaves: < 1 calorie, 1 tablespoon olive oil: 110 calories, 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar: 5 calories. 

35. Healthier Cobb Salad: 382 calories. Why it rules: Skipping the dangerous dressing and opting for turkey bacon leans out this filling salad. 1 cup romaine lettuce: 8 calories, ½ a chicken breast, sliced: 100 calories, 2 slices cooked turkey bacon, crumbled: 87 calories, ¼ avocado, sliced: 60 calories, 1 large hard-boiled egg, sliced: 75, 1 tablespoon crumbled blue cheese: 37 calories, 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar: 15 calories. 

Thanks for this information, reposted from Laura Schwecherl

Adrenal Fatigue and Exhaustion For Women

Thousands of people suffer from constant fatigue unrelieved by rest and sleep. Sometimes can be misdiagnosed as Chronic Fatigue.

This is the main symptom of Adrenal Burnout. Other symptoms may include a craving for sweets, low blood pressure and low blood sugar, irritability and depression. Secondary symptoms range from impaired digestion to infections. Low energy can impair every system of the body lending to toxic emotions. People seem uncaring and a hopeless or depressed attitude is not uncommon. It feels like a everyday struggle - just to maintain! 

The condition is also called adrenal hypo function, exhaustion or insufficiency. Unlike fatigue, your energy does not return after a good nights rest. Burnout is a more serious derangement of the body's energy systems. 

The adrenals are the major glands the body uses to respond to stress. Just two of it's hormones, adrenalin and epinephrine raise the blood sugar and blood pressure and promote energy production in response to emergencies. Longer-acting anti-stress adrenal hormones such as cortisone and cortisol are also manufactured. Aldosterone, another adrenal hormone, retains sodium and increases the blood pressure. Related closely to the sympathetic nervous system, adrenals are part of the fight-or-flight response which kicks in under stress. Then, when the adrenals become depleted, the body is unable to handle stress. 

Most physicians do not diagnose adrenal burnout syndrome. Rarely, if enough tests are run, it may be called Addison's Disease. Doctors consider this condition incurable. Recovery from adrenal burnout, however, is definitely possible. The condition affects both men and women, and even children as well. Some children are born this way and never experience fullness of energy. 

Burnout may develop slowly or be caused by a single trauma. John F. Kennedy experienced burnout during World War II. Late one night, his patrol boat was rammed by a Japanese destroyer, killing most of the crew. He never recovered from the shock. For the rest of his life, he needed replacement adrenal hormones. If he had found the right practitioner, perhaps they would not have been needed. 

Causes of Adrenal Burnout Syndrome 

Excessive stress, the underlying cause of burnout, can be from many sources. Chemical toxicity and nutritional depletion are among the physical causes. Mental, emotional or spiritual stress may be a major factor. Financial, family or other stress may also contribute to burnout. 

Nutritional deficiencies are a common cause. When under stress, the need for nutrients is much greater. Carbohydrates, when excessive in the diet, stress the adrenals. Diets low in protein may also create deficiencies and inadequate or poor quality water affects oxygenation of the tissues. 

Most diets are low in nutrients required by the adrenals. These include B-complex, vitamins A, C and E, manganese, zinc and others. Most food is grown on depleted soils. Processing and refining further deplete nutrients. Personal habits like eating in the car or while on the run further diminish the value derived from food. Allergic reactions to foods like wheat and dairy products damage the intestines and reduce the absorption of nutrients. 

Toxic metals and chemicals, in adrenal burnout often play a large role. Everyone is exposed to thousands of chemicals in the air, the water and the food. Other sources are dental materials and skin contact with chemicals. Over-the-counter and prescribed medications also add to the body's toxic load. 

Within the body, impaired digestion can also lead to toxic buildup as can chronic infections due to dental and other hidden origins. Unfortunately, the organs of elimination, in most people do not function well. Toxic substances slowly build up in the body, leading to many serious heath concerns. 

Any excessive stress can deplete the adrenals, especially when weakened by poor nutrition. Working too much or emotional stress are two common causes. Family or financial problems may also contribute. Over stimulation, especially for children, is another cause. Fast-paced, high-stress, fear-based lifestyles are a sure prescription for adrenal burnout. 

Other stressors in city life include noise and electromagnetic pollution. Cell phones, microwave towers, and appliances like televisions, microwave ovens and computers give off strong electrical fields. 

Temporarily stimulants can damage the adrenal glands. Caffeine, sugar and alcohol are among the most common. Less obvious stimulants include anger, rage, arguing, hatred, loud music, the news and movies full of suspense. Vigorous exercise, sexual preoccupations and other thrills may also act as stimulants. 

Stimulant use, however, is often a result of adrenal burnout. Stimulants are attractive in providing temporary energy. This is one appeal of the drug culture, both legal and recreational. 

High strung, nervous individuals and those with very active minds are especially prone to adrenal burnout. Unhealthy responses to stress are an important cause. These include habits of worrying, or becoming angry or afraid. Don't worry, be happy is a great prescription for adrenal burnout. 

Many children today have weak adrenals due to their parents' nutritional deficiencies. By age three or four, these children are in burnout. They are often sick, depressed and have difficulty in school. 

Symptoms of Adrenal Burnout 

Low Blood Sugar and allergies result from low levels of cortisol. Joint and muscle pain are other common symptoms. Multiple chemical sensitivity is an extreme allergic condition associated with adrenal burnout. Low blood pressure and low body temperature may also result. Later blood pressure rises as toxic substances build up in the arteries and kidneys. 

Elevated copper and low zinc related to adrenal burnout impair the immune system. Chronic infections may develop and for degenerative conditions and the stage is now set. Cancer and heart disease, and Parkinson's and Alzheimer's are end-stage results of toxic accumulation and energy depletion. 

Often secondary to adrenal exhaustion are glandular imbalances, both hyper and hypothyroidism. The adrenal glands produce estrogen and progesterone. Premenstrual syndrome and hot flashes have to do with the adrenal glands. 

Depression and apathy are common in adrenal burnout. One may lose interest in friends, family and work. Unsure if there is energy to get through the day, anxiety may occur. Irritability is common as one is less able to handle even minor stress. Many people with adrenal burnout function on anger and resentment. These act as adrenal stimulants, providing energy with which to function. 

Compulsiveness is associated with adrenal burnout. Excessive exercise, sex, loud music or other forms of excitement can contribute. The unconscious goal is always the same, to stimulate the adrenals into activity. 

When the adrenals are weak, copper builds up in the body. Elevated copper enhances emotions. Panic attacks and bipolar disorder, mood swings and schizophrenia are related to copper imbalance. Also affecting the nervous system are other toxic metals. Mercury, cadmium and lead contribute to impaired thinking and emotional instability. 

Myths about Adrenal Burnout

• Burnout is psychological: Burnout is a breakdown of the energy system of the body. Vital minerals are depleted or burned out and replaced by toxic metals. Psychological stress may be a cause and burnout can affect one's emotions and behavior. However, BURNOUT ITSELF IS BIOCHEMICAL. Recovery may involve improving emotions and dealing with psychological issues. However, it also involves rebuilding body chemistry because it is a physical condition as well.

• People in burnout have no energy and cannot sustain good energy at work. : Many in burnout hold full-time jobs. They may appear in good health. However, they are often tired or stressed. They may require stimulants in order to keep going. Some bury themselves in their work to forget how tired they feel.
  
• Vigorous exercise is good for burnout: Vigorous exercise can be attractive to those in burnout. Exercise temporarily makes them feel better. While it may provide a boost, in the long run vigorous exercise further exhausts their bodies. People in burnout need to reduce exercise, often to a minimum in order to conserve their energy and allow their adrenals to rebuild. Exercise requires energy and adrenal reserves that people in burnout do not have.
  
• A vacation, a diet, or a nutritional supplement will cause recovery from burnout: Most people never recover from burnout. Recovery requires a strong commitment to healing. A number of natural therapies are often required. Recovery takes at least several years. If faster recovery occurs, it was not a case of adrenal burnout.
  
• Burnout occurs mainly in men: In fact, it is more common in women. This is due mainly to social - lifestyle changes. Many women now work outside the home and raise the children as well. Many are in single-parent homes or both parents work just to pay the taxes. Women have more sluggish oxidation rates to begin with, so burnout may be less apparent in women, but it is just as common or more so than in men.
  
• Burnout only occurs in those in high-stress jobs: Burnout occurs in all groups, regardless of occupation, income or educational level. In fact, many homeless people are burned out. This helps account for why they may give up hope or be incapable of holding a job or supporting a home.
  
• Burnout occurs only in adults: In fact, it is common today in children and even babies. Children are being nutritionally depleted and toxic as a result of the ill health of the parents. This can be measured with mineral analysis. Minimal brain dysfunction, chronic ear or other infections, crib death, failure to thrive, ADHD and anti-social behavior may all be symptoms of burnout in children.
  
• Burnout affects only physical health: Burnout affects every area of life. Family and work are often affected. Relationships often suffer. One may lose interest in everyone and everything. There simply is not enough energy available for others or for activities beyond those required for survival. Friends, family and employers are often unaware of what is occurring, which only worsens the situation.
  
• A hectic lifestyle causes burnout: This may be one cause. However, a hectic lifestyle can also be a result of burnout. Excessive activity, overwork and a very busy life can be a way to stimulate one into action, a compensation for feelings of exhaustion. When such a person stops working and running around, they will feel just how exhausted and perhaps depressed that they really are.
  
• Overwork for years causes burnout: This is possible. However, it can occur due to a single shock or just a few traumas that occur together. It may also not be related to any single trauma or activity. Often a combination of factors causes burnout.
  
  Whether one goes into burnout from an illness, accident, divorce, overwork or other stress depends very much on one's ability to handle stress, rather than the absolute amount of stress.
  
• Burnout is an overused term without a scientific basis: Just because burnout doesn't show up on x-rays or standard blood tests does not mean it is not real. Burnout can be measured and quantified using tissue mineral testing. The term is not overused. In fact it is greatly underused. A large percentage of the population is in burnout and it would be helpful if physicians understood it better even if they have no cure.
  
• Plenty of sleep will take care of burnout: Unfortunately, this is not so. The body is unable to regenerate its energy during sleep. Waking up tired after 8-10 hours of sleep is a primary symptom of burnout. Like a dead battery, the body does not recharge itself during sleep. An interesting principle of health is that one can only regenerate during sleep in proportion to the energy one has. Those in burnout are overtired which interferes with the restorative power of their sleep.
  
• Cleaning out toxins will take care of burnout: The accumulation of toxins that occurs as the body can no longer remove them properly contributes to burnout. Exposure to toxic metals or chemicals can be an important factor in burnout. Eliminating them is helpful.
  
  However, energy is required to release toxins. If the energy system is weak, just fasting or detoxifying will not be enough. One must rebuild the entire energy system by balancing body chemistry and providing nutrients as well. A one-month or even six-month cleanse is nowhere near adequate. It can take a year just to replenish one mineral. For those in burnout, extreme detoxification programs such as fasting, raw foods or even chelating agents can be dangerous. This is because the body lacks the vitality to properly eliminate toxins, the eliminative organs are compromised and toxins may be redistributed in vital organs. A gentle, complete program of rebuilding and nourishing the body must accompany any efforts to eliminate toxins. In fact, as vitality improves, toxin elimination will proceed on its own.
  
• One will come out of burnout when one changes whatever factor or behavior caused the burnout: This is not how it works. As one goes into burnout, vital minerals become depleted and toxic substances replace them. They become part of the structure of enzymes and body organs and glands. Although one changes one's diet, lifestyle, attitudes or behavior, the toxins remain.
  
  Often, burnout does not even set in until several years after a trauma, illness or injury as depleted and damaged cells proliferate. Though many change their diets and get over their traumas, most people never recover from burnout, or make only a partial recovery.
  
• To recover from burnout just reestablish close communication with those who are close to you: This is the prescription for burnout in one popular book. However, this is not enough. Communication is also difficult when one is in burnout. Burnout can greatly affect one's attitudes, outlook and perceptions, making real communication very difficult. Low energy by itself can impair communication. Lack of understanding of the problem by partners, friends and others can also impair communication.
  
• To get out of burnout, one needs to get back in touch with oneself: This is not enough for recovery. Also, getting in touch is difficult due to toxins in the brain. These produce odd feelings, low self-esteem and negative attitudes that often accompany burnout. Many people in burnout become overly introspective, which can make them worse as they get in touch with all their problems.
  
• One can recover from burnout in matter of months: It takes at least two years and often longer. Layers of adaptations and compensations must be undone. Each adaptation uses up energy so that when one begins correction, there is little energy to work with. This slows progress and is one reason correction takes several years.
  
  Also, twenty or thirty minerals must often be replenished, a time-consuming process even assuming that one is ingesting all needed nutrients. Eliminating toxins that have become integral parts of the organs and glands also takes time, like rebuilding a house. If the process occurred too rapidly, one would become very ill.
  
  If recovery occurs in months the condition was not burnout. Often , a small recovery can feel like a cure when it is not. Those in burnout need an overhaul, not a tune up. One needs to commit to doing whatever it takes and devoting a few years to healing. This needs to become one's primary occupation or job for a while, allowing all other interests and activities to become secondary to the commitment to healing.
  
• Burnout is not an important medical problem unless the stress of burnout causes high blood pressure or another symptom: Burnout is degenerative exhaustion. It sets the stage for all degenerative diseases, because energy is a common denominator of health. All illnesses start with fatigue. The body is like a newer car with power steering, power brakes and power windows. When the power goes down, the entire car stops working right. Burnout is a serious medical problem, although symptoms may be vague and unrelated to a specific disease.
  
• Burnout is new phenomenon: In fact, burnout is as old as humanity. It can even help understand the rise and fall of civilizations. Nations often change over time. Repressive traditions can in time lead nations into burnout. Constant wars as occurred in Europe can contribute to burnout. Toxic exposure like lead water pipes can contribute to burnout. Vegetarian diets or destructive religious ideas, as in countries like India, can be a factor. Oppressive economic systems can contribute in some nations.
  
  The process can be cumulative because children born to burned out parents continue the pattern until the entire group goes into burnout. Melting pot nations like America have an advantage in this regard. New immigrants are often the more ambitious ones that are in better health and can help rejuvenate the population. Also, nations that emphasize freedom and individual rights allow people to devise better ways of coping and maintaining their health. 

Recovery 
Recovery from burnout is certainly possible. It takes several years and usually requires a change in diet, improving one's lifestyle, nutritional supplements, detoxification procedures and attention to one's emotional and spiritual health.. Addressing all these aspects is the way to assure success. 

Diet 
Diet is an important factor for everyone. Eat protein with every meal. Eggs, natural meats and poultry are the best sources of protein. Toasted almond butter and nuts are other good sources. Avoid vegetarian diets. At lunch and supper, have three cooked vegetables. Rotate your proteins and your vegetables so you don't eat the same thing every day. 

You may have complex carbohydrates, but not wheat and spelt. Some people are also sensitive to gluten found in rye, barley and oats. Excellent starches are root vegetables (turnips, parsnips, rutabaga, carrots, onion and celery root), blue corn, brown rice, quinoa and others. Organic blue corn chips are fine. 

We recommend everyone avoid wheat, spelt, sugar and cow's milk dairy products. If other food allergies are present, avoid these foods for a while. Avoid Isolated soy protein as it is of poor quality and contains many anti-nutrients. Reduce all sweets, eat very little fruit and avoid all junk food. Avoid all vegetable oils except for olive oil. Avoid all juices. They are too yin, most are too sugary and they can concentrate food toxins, upset blood sugar and weaken the adrenals. Use sea salt rather than table salt. Eat regular meals of excellent quality. Switch to organic food whenever possible. 

Excellent are green foods like barley grass powder and various colored vegetables. Cooking with coconut oil is excellent and helps as well with weight loss, Candida and energy. 

Drink high quality water, not from the tap. Distilled or spring waters are best. So-called drinking water or reverse osmosis are often not good as the filters used to make them may be dirty. Good quality water is an excellent investment in yourself. 

Avoid all extreme diets. Your body needs a variety of nutrients. Restriction is not a good idea. In our experience, strict vegetarians will never recover from burnout. Follow good eating habits with regular, sit-down, relaxed meals. 

Nutrients and Lifestyle for recovery 
Food supplements are necessary. Kelp granules and nutritional yeast are excellent supplements for most people. They are rich sources of nutrients and kelp assists detoxification. Other nutrients that are very important for adrenal activity are vitamins A, B, C, E, pantothenic acid (B5) and adrenal glandular substance. Calcium and magnesium are often needed. A digestive aid is always needed. We recommend pancreatin and ox bile. Zinc is frequently needed. Other nutrients may be needed depending on one's level of toxic metals and other symptoms or deficiencies. We recommend hair mineral testing along with symptoms to assess these needs. 

Rest and sleep are extremely important. Plan on nine hours of sleep for at least a few years. At times, more may be needed. Sleep is not a waste of time. There is no substitute for adequate rest. Also rest after meals, at mid-morning and mid-afternoon. 

Gentle walking is beneficial. Vigorous exertion depletes the adrenals. Deep breathing and stretching, yoga or tai chi do not deplete the body. Exercise to relax rather than to build muscles. 

Cleaning up your environment assists health recovery. Replace toxic chemical products used around the house. Non-toxic alternatives are available for cleaning and as solvents. Pesticides and herbicides are often extremely toxic. Chemical hair dyes, shampoos and toxic skin care products need to be replaced. 

Ventilate your house and purify the air if needed. Often very toxic is new construction. At work and at home avoid toxic exposure. Turn off televisions and computers when they are not in use. Sleep away from these appliances. Use cell phones only when absolutely needed. 

Detoxification 
Sauna therapy in particular will greatly enhance and speed up recovery. The best type is an infrared electric light sauna. If you are in adrenal burnout, use the sauna daily for no more than 30 minutes. Once or twice a week is excellent for prevention. 

Other detoxification procedures are also very good. Brush your skin whenever you bathe with a skin brush or loofa. Colonic irrigation and herbs for the liver and kidneys can help improve elimination. 

Chiropractic, massage and reflexology can help reduce stress. Many natural therapies help realign and rebalance the body. Making these part of your lifestyle will enhance recovery. 

Mental, Emotional and Spiritual Health 
Often it is necessary to grow out of burnout. A key to recovery from burnout is improving values and attitudes. They play an important part in every single case. Negative thinking is a bad habit that eventually tears down the body. Worry, fear and anger place added stress on the glands. Many techniques there are to help shift one's thinking. Inspirational books and tapes, seminars and therapies there are many. There is no single answer right for everyone. 

Searching for love outside of yourself depletes the body's energy. Find the love inside yourself first, and you will find the right activities and companions. Burnout may result if you are awakening spiritually. Your present work and lifestyle may simply be inappropriate. Consider different employment or work arrangements if you suspect your stress comes from your work. 

Relationships can cause a lot of stress. When one partner goes into burnout, the other often does not understand. Many couples become energetically incompatible. This has nothing to do with love or caring. It is important to listen to the wisdom of the body, and not be blinded by fixed ideas. 

Many tools there are to help one relax and tune in to the wisdom of the self. In addition to traditional therapy, meditation and visualization exercises may be most helpful. Slowing down is often necessary if you live a busy life. It can take great courage to realize that by doing less you can accomplish more. By staying home more, you can relate better with others. By resting more, you can be more creative and productive. Change often requires overcoming guilt, shame and feelings of laziness. 

For spiritual orientation, we highly recommend A course in Miracles, Love Without End by Glenda Green, The Other Voice by Brent Haskell and The Real Self by this author. These and other books and tapes can help one rethink who am I, what is life about and why am I here. 

The Blessing of Burnout 
Adrenal burnout is always a wake up call. Some area of life is out of alignment. For a deeper exploration of self, it is often the starting point. Rather than just existing as a programmed zombie, adrenal burnout may be the beginning of real living. 

reposted from http://www.womenlivingnaturally.com/articlepage.php?id=6