Other Habits That Aren’t Great
So, now you know that you need to avoid big meals at the end of the day and make sure you’re getting enough sleep. But what other habits could be draining your energy levels?
If you’re a consumer of energy drinks, we have some news for you: They’re probably draining your energy, according to the experts. Studies also show that energy drinks can endanger heart and brain health, cause inflammation, increase your blood pressure, and more.
Other caffeinated beverages can help with energy levels, though. “Consuming caffeine from sources like tea, especially green or fermented tea, can help improve energy levels by supporting the mitochondria, which are responsible for producing energy in our cells,” Valvano said.
And if you live a sedentary lifestyle and eat a diet high in sugar and processed foods, that can definitely contribute to poor energy levels.
“Regular exercise can help improve energy levels by increasing blood flow and oxygen to the brain and muscles,” said Dr. Danielle Kelvas, a physician based in Chattanooga, Tennessee. “Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise each day, such as brisk walking, cycling, or swimming.”
As for diet, “a diet that is rich in whole, unprocessed foods can help provide sustained energy throughout the day,” Kelvas said. “Focus on eating a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Avoid consuming too much sugar and processed foods, as these can cause energy crashes.”
Finally, chronic stress is a big reason for diminished energy levels, as fatigue is a known side effect of stress and emotional exhaustion. “Practice stress-management techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, or yoga to help reduce stress levels and improve energy,” Kelvas suggested.
When to Talk to Your Doctor
A little fatigue here and there probably isn’t anything to worry about and can be fixed with a few simple tweaks, but if your fatigue lasts longer than a week or two, you should probably see a doctor, according to Harvard Health. This is especially true if you have other symptoms like fever, loss of appetite, or shortness of breath.
“Low energy levels can be associated with various health conditions, such as infections, hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, and sleep disorders,” Kelvas said. “Lifestyle factors such as lack of physical activity, poor nutrition, and stress can also contribute to low energy levels. If you are experiencing persistent low energy levels, it may be a good idea to talk to a doctor.”
Originally published on HuffPost.
Source: https://www.buzzfeed.com/leighweingus/daily-habit-making-you-tired-7508525