8 Reasons You Could be Feeling Tired
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By Robin Westen
Are you feeling exhausted before the end of the day? Well, you might blame it on doing too much, but experts say you probably have the wrong idea. More likely than not, there are other causes. Here are the most common reasons:
Diet
When you’re feeling tired, like most Americans you may just reach for a quick bolt of energy with sugar or caffeine. But those choices will only leave you feeling more tired because your blood sugar will fluctuate. Instead, go for a snack of lean protein. Of course eating healthy also means you'll carry less weight, and obesity is a big contributor to fatigue. -
Lack of Sleep
Chances are you’re not getting enough shuteye. In one Sleep in America Poll, about 60% of women reported only getting a few good nights' sleep a week -- or less. To get more Z’s, avoid caffeine and alcohol in the hours just before bedtime, and keep your bedroom peaceful. -
Not Enough Exercise
Surprisingly, a lack of exercise could be making you tired. The answer? Vigorous exercise during the day. Exercise, it turns out, boosts energy. Forty minutes of exercise, at least four days a week, should do the trick. Just make sure you complete all your activity three hours or more before bedtime. -
Thyroid Condition
Over- and under-active thyroids both can cause fatigue. A blood test for your level of thyroid-stimulating hormone can help evaluate your thyroid function. -
Anemia
A simple blood test will let you know if your fatigue is the result of anemia. It’s a particular problem for women. You can remedy anemia with an iron-rich diet, heavy in meats and dark, leafy greens, or supplements if you have a chronic iron deficiency. -
The Blues
If your feelings of exhaustion are accompanied by sadness and loss of appetite, and you just can't take any pleasure in things you once enjoyed, you may be experiencing depression. See a counselor or therapist. -
Diabetes
People who have uncontrolled diabetes can feel exhausted. If that’s the case for you, you should get your glucose level checked. -
Heart Disease
Fatigue can be a sign of heart trouble, particularly in women. If you have trouble with exercise you used to do easily, or if you start feeling worse when you exercise, this could be a red flag for heart trouble. See your doctor.
About the Author
Robin Westen is ThirdAge's Medical Director. Check for her daily updates. Her latest book, co-authored with Dr. Alyssa Dweck, is "V is for Vagina."
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