Adrenal Check, Saliva

Cortisol (x4); Cortisol, Total; DHEA-S; Cortisol:DHEA-S Ratio

Saliva

The Adrenal Check test measures the levels of cortisol collected from saliva at various times of the day, as well as the level of DHEA-S and helps evaluate adrenal gland function and hormone balance. When adrenal exhaustion occurs, the underlying causes must be highlighted through additional lab testing and by investigating the environmental and lifestyle factors that may play a role. At the same time the adrenals must be supported by nutritional and lifestyle modifications.

Understanding the Cortisol:DHEA-S Ratio
This ratio, which normally ranges from 5:1 to 6:1, is an indicator of the adrenal output of cortisol and the androgens. If the ratio is higher than normal it is due to adrenal dysfunction. When the body experiences chronic stress, pregnenolone, the precursor to all other steroidal hormones, begins to overproduce cortisol at the expense of all the other steroidal hormones (DHEA and its metabolites, including progesterone, testosterone, and the estrogens). This creates an elevated cortisol to DHEA ratio. If the ratio is lower than normal for that age, and the DHEA-S level is within the normal range, it is probably due to the maintenance of DHEA-S output with advancing age. However, if the ratio for that age is lower than expected, it is probably due to high DHEA levels, low cortisol, or both of these.

Source: https://www.fluidsiq.com/hormones_adrenal.php?lang=en;Accessed 25-Oct-2016