When experiencing stress, in any form, the adrenal glands secrete specific hormones that have a profound effect on the body. Over time, as one experiences stress on a daily basis, the adrenal glands can function less optimally with respect to the secretion of stress-related hormones. This can lead to something called adrenal stress, which means that the adrenal glands are overworked. Things such as nervousness, poor memory, cravings for sweets, weight gain, fatigue and compromised sleep are all associated with an upset in the levels of these hormones-either too much, or too little.