If you’re feeling fatigued and tired, it’s a symptom you should never ignore. Ongoing fatigue is a sign that your homeostasis (balance in your body) is off. Too many people gravitate to stimulants such as coffee, green tea, various sugars and energy drinks to get a boost. These stimulants may give you a few minutes of nervous energy, but in reality they all contribute to a crash and burn in the end. True energy is derived at the cellular level when your cells receive nutrients from the good food that you should be eating most of the time.
These nutrients are vitamins, minerals, enzymes, electrolytes and anti-oxidants. Fruits and raw vegetables are where you will find the majority of these nutrients. When our channels of elimination (bowels) are weak, we hold on to too much waste that can cause bloat, weight gain and fatigue.
Let’s take a look at other factors that may contribute to ongoing fatigue.
Dehydration
Our body is made up of 70% water. We need to constantly replenish what we use every time we move. When we are not drinking enough, our heart pumps less efficiently. Most people do not drink enough water.
My rule of thumb is to drink one liter for every 40 pounds of body weight. Add to this if you are exercising, pregnant or nursing. Add a little chlorophyll to your water. This green liquid helps bind iron to oxygen and acts like an internal deodorant in your body. It also tastes good!
Thyroid dysfunction
Our thyroid is responsible for proper metabolic function. If the cells of the thyroid are not receiving the nutrients they need because of a poor diet or a backed up lymphatic system, the thyroid will not be able to produce the hormones necessary to function properly.
The result? Fatigue.
Low Iron
When we lack iron in our diet, less oxygen makes its way to our muscles and cells causing fatigue. Load up on dark green leafy vegetables to get more iron.
Kale, chard and spinach are all excellent sources!
Lack of exercise and movement
We were designed to move. The more we sit, the more we hold on to carbon dioxide and our lymph becomes congested and stagnant. The result? Fatigue.
We must move and be active. The Total Gym is a perfect tool to help you if you are limited either in time or space. You can truly exercise your body with just one piece of equipment. Check them out here.
Drinking too much alcohol
Too much alcohol is exhausting as it robs you of real energy, deadening your senses and making you lethargic. Having numerous drinks can also lead to overeating and affect your sleep.
Too many distractions
Times have changed. With internet and social media, there is no down time. Constantly checking emails or social media is NOT relaxing. This just adds to mental chaos.
Additionally, the worst thing you can do is check messages or emails before bed. This is not smart. I always say to my clients that the last thing they do or say before bed will impact their sleep.
In conclusion, when we benefit from a good night’s sleep, this makes all the difference in how we feel in the morning. Try to keep your room dark. Do not charge your phone or tablet in the bedroom. Turn in your alarm clock for a nice essential oil diffuser. There are some wonderful aromas like lavender that contribute to a peaceful sleep.
