_ Lethargy, also know as fatigue, is a common complaint among the American population. Contrary to popular belief, the solution to this problem is not always more sleep! Bad sleep habits, poor quality of sleep, too much sleep are also contributing factors. However, such a simple problem can sometimes be an early manifestation of other conditions. Some common causes of fatigue are anemia, hypothyroidism, depression, neurological disorders, poor nutrition and several others. So what should you do? Fortunately, in most cases, fatigue is related to poor sleep and nutritional habits. Here are some key steps to countering that fatigue (not related to a specific condition).
- Stay active! Spending a minimum of 30 minutes a day doing some kind of cardiovascular activity will help regulate your hormones and decrease the stress hormones which are big factors in poor sleep! And bonus! You will also loose weight!
- Get outside during the day! The fresh air and light will stimulate hormones that regulate you sleep/wake cycles which will help get you back on the right schedule.
- Have quiet time before bed. Allowing time to process the day and decrease the stimulation to the brain will make it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep.
- Don’t eat or watch TV 30 min-1 hour before going to bed (especially in bed!!!). This will decrease brain and GI stimulation, allowing the body to slow its activity and again make it easier to fall asleep.
- Have a routine. The body works well on a routine. Going to bed and waking up with less than a 30 minute variation from day to day will allow the body to be more efficient.
- Exploring your nutritional deficits…..see tinaspharm for details on good foods to avoid fatigue.
- If your fatigue doesn’t improve in a 2 week period seek medical attention for further evaluation.
By: Dr Lindsay Stephens, DC
www.sportsplusbayarea.com
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