The Importance of Maintaining a Healthy HPA Axis

In a healthy human body, the systems of the body work together to maintain homeostasis; everything is in complete balance. However, stress and other internal and external factors can cause the body to be thrown out of balance resulting in both physical and psychological disease.

One very critical pathway that controls multiple systems is the HPA axis also known as the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal axis. Maintaining a healthy HPA axis is critical for the overall health of the body.

What is the HPA Axis?

The Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal axis works with the sympathetic nervous system and the neuroendocrine system to help maintain the body's homeostasis. The HPA axis is involved in the regulation of temperature, digestion, mood, and the immune system. It also helps control the way the body responds to stress, trauma, and even some infections. 

When the body is subjected to stress or trauma, it automatically responds with a "fight or flight" response. During this response, certain bodily functions increase while others decrease. Digestive and kidney functions decrease, and the heart rate, blood pressure, and blood volume increase. This causes the HPA axis to become activated. 

When the HPA axis is activated as a result of physical or emotional stress, the hypothalamus produces corticotropin-releasing-hormone (CRH). CRH then binds to cells in the pituitary gland and adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) is released. Once ACTH is released, it travels to the adrenal glands where adrenal hormones are produced. The secretion of cortisol is increased by the adrenal glands thereby lessening the effects of stress on the body. Through negative feedback, ACTH and cortisol will decrease once the stress is over.

The Importance of Maintaining a Healthy HPA Axis

Too much stress or severe trauma that leads to increased HPA axis stimulation can cause adrenal fatigue. Adrenal fatigue and HPA axis imbalances are known to be responsible for a myriad of physical and psychological issues. Problems with the HPA axis have been found to be associated with fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome. Fibromyalgia has been associated with the hypothalamus, and chronic fatigue syndrome occurs when the HPA axis under functions and the adrenals are effected. Other major health issues such as bi polar disorder, anxiety disorder, depression, irritable bowel, and menopausal symptoms are related to an unhealthy HPA axis.

It is especially important to maintain healthy adrenal gland function. There are many natural ways to increase healthy adrenal gland function. Moderate and regular exercise can help stimulate the adrenals and decrease stress. Yoga and meditation can also help relieve stress. A diet rich in fruits and vegetables and low in fats and processed food can also help keep the adrenal glands healthy and maintain a balanced HPA axis.

In today's world, stress, processed foods, and a sedentary lifestyle seem to be the norm. These factors often lead to HPA axis imbalances and health issues. Maintaining a healthy HPA axis is critical, and a healthy, active lifestyle can help keep the body in balance.