Fatigue is a lingering feeling of exhaustion that is constant. With fatigue you will have unexplained, relapsing and persistent tiredness. You may not be able to function effectively during the day. There are many reasons for fatigue.
No 1 Cause of Fatigue: Lack of Sleep
Lack of sleep is a major cause of fatigue. This can have an adverse effect on your health and wellbeing. The recommended hours of sleep per night for an adult is 8 hours. Good sleep can come with a few changes. These are:
- Making sure all electronics are off
- The room is dark
- The mattress and pillows are comfortable
No 2 Cause of Fatigue: Sleep Apnoea
Sleep apnea quite a common but serious sleep disorder. It is where the sufferer stops breathing for short periods of time whilst they are asleep. This disorder can cause sleep interruptions and daytime fatigue.
Smoking, being overweight, drinking alcohol can worsen the symptoms.
No 3 Cause of Fatigue: Not enough Energy
Not eating enough, eating too much and not eating enough of the right foods can affect the way in which you sleep.
Eat a diet filled with whole foods such as fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, grains, meat, poultry and fish. Avoid highly processed foods and those foods high in sugar.
No 4 Cause of Fatigue: Anaemia
Iron deficient anaemia is the most common cause of fatigue. Iron is the main component of red blood cells and carries oxygen around the body. Without iron, your body may not be getting the oxygen it needs causing fatigue. Iron food sources include:
- Red meat
- Green leafy vegetables
- Beans
- Fish
- Eggs
- Poultry
No 5 Cause of Fatigue: Caffeine and Sugar Overload
Most people take caffeine to perk themselves up and give them energy. For the short term caffeine can give you your much needed energy burst. However, if you overload with caffeine, you will experience the "crash", leaving you feeling fatigued. The same principal applies with a sugar overload.
If you are experiencing fatigue, it is important that you contact your health professional in order to determine the cause.
Originally published on Mar 13, 2015
