Feeling Tired? Boost Your Energy

Introduction:

Tiredness may simply be the result of a hectic family and working life, but being overweight can also make you feel tired, as your body has to work harder to do everyday things.

Stress and worry can stop you from sleeping properly. Fatigue often spirals into a vicious circle: you're tired, so you don't feel like doing much, but if you don't do much, you become unfit, which makes you feel tired. Tiredness stops us from enjoying life.

Here are some simple ways to boost your energy:

• Improve your sleep. No late-night eating; cut out caffeine, alcohol and daytime naps. Keep a window open for fresh air
• Eat well and regularly. Don't skip meals and then snack, or you'll get sugar 'highs' and 'lows'. Drink plenty, preferably water or herb teas
• Take regular exercise. This boosts energy levels. Walk, swim or cycle, but try to get fresh air and natural daylight. Start slowly and increase to at least half an hour daily
• Cut out caffeine. Not just tea and coffee, but soft drinks, cold remedies or painkillers can contain caffeine too
• Lose weight. But do so gradually: crash diets can make fatigue worse
• Plan your time. Learn to say 'no', to avoid stress. If you have a busy day, make sure the next is less hectic
• Be realistic. It will take time to feel fitter. Set achievable goals and feel good when you reach them
• Seek advice. If your fatigue persists, see your GP who may check for common illnesses, such as Myalgic Encephalopathy (ME) Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS), Post Viral Fatigue Syndrome (PVFS), anaemia, depression or thyroid problems, diabetes, myasthemia gravis (an autoimmune disease) and Guillain-Barré syndrome (an inflammation disorder of the peripheral nerves).

Clickthrough information and support links:

The ME Association

This article has been written for PruHealth by Dr Foster Research. All Dr Foster Research (DFR) health content is provided for general information only, and should not be treated as a substitute for the medical advice of your own doctor or any other health care professional.