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Feeling perpetually drained? You're not alone.
In today's fast-paced world, many of us are battling an endless battle with exhaustion.
But before you reach for another cup of coffee or blame your hectic schedule, here are the eight surprising reasons why you might be feeling so tired—and how you can turn things around.
Dr Ross Perry, the medical director of Cosmedics skin clinics, said too much exercise and not enough can both cause tiredness
1. You're Not Exercising Enough
That sedentary lifestyle could be the root of your fatigue. Regular exercise is a game-changer for boosting energy levels.
Dr Ross Perry, medical director of Cosmedics skin clinics, said too much exercise and not enough can both cause tiredness.
Dr Ross Perry is medical director of Cosmedics skin clinics
'This is because when we don't exercise our muscles, it can cause deconditioning of the body's musculoskeletal and cardiovascular system, which in turn can make us feel low and depressed,' he told The Sun.
'All of this leads to us feeling fatigued.'
2. Your Posture is All Wrong
If you're slumped over your desk or hunching while you work from home, your posture could be zapping your energy.
Poor posture strains muscles and reduces blood flow, reducing the amount of oxygen which circulates around the body.
'This is because there is a link between spine pain and fatigue due to the underlying muscles in the back,' Dr Perry told The Sun.
'If a spinal issue is causing muscle imbalances, this pressure then becomes more of a burden on other muscle groups, and the stress one can endure will leave you feeling exhausted, even if you have done little or no exercise at all.'
3. You're Overdoing Carbohydrates
Opt for whole grains and balance your plate with protein and vegetables to keep your energy levels steady
Carb overload can lead to those dreaded mid-afternoon slumps. While carbs are essential, too many can spike your blood sugar and then leave you crashing.
Opt for whole grains and balance your plate with protein and vegetables to keep your energy levels steady.
4. You're Drinking Too Much Coffee
That extra-large latte might be providing a temporary pick-me-up, but excessive caffeine can disrupt your sleep patterns and leave you feeling groggy.
'Coffee stimulates adrenaline release, leading to temporary energy boosts,' Andy Daly, a nutritionist at Dr David Jack, told The Sun.
'Over time this can cause adrenal fatigue, contributing to exhaustion.
'Coffee's diuretic effect can cause dehydration, impacting bodily functions and leading to fatigue.
'Coffee affects blood sugar levels too, causing fluctuations, which can lead to fatigue.'
That extra-large latte might be providing a temporary pick-me-up, but excessive caffeine can disrupt your sleep patterns and leave you feeling groggy
5. You're Sitting Down for Too Long
Sitting is the new smoking, they say, and it's no exaggeration. Long periods of sitting can lead to fatigue and discomfort.
Stand up, stretch, and take regular breaks to keep your energy flowing and your body feeling fresh.
6. You're Not Having Enough Sex
Yes, you read that right! Regular sexual activity is linked to better sleep and higher energy levels.
If you're in a relationship, reconnecting with your partner could boost more than just your mood—it might also give your energy a much-needed lift.
'A lack of sexual intimacy goes hand in hand with fatigue,' said SCI-MX health expert Matt Durkin.
'Hormones, such as prolactin and oxytocin, are released during sex, and these help to encourage restful sleep.'
7. You're Drinking a Fizzy Drink Every Day
Swap the soda for water or herbal teas to keep your energy levels stable
Those fizzy, sugary drinks might be a treat, but they can also cause energy crashes. High sugar content leads to rapid spikes and drops in your blood sugar levels.
Swap the soda for water or herbal teas to keep your energy levels stable.
8. You're Not Feeding Your Gut
A healthy gut means a more energetic you. If you're not eating enough fiber-rich foods or probiotics, your gut flora might be out of balance, affecting your energy.
Incorporate foods like yogurt, kefir, and plenty of vegetables into your diet to keep your gut (and your energy) in top shape.
Feeling tired all the time doesn't have to be your norm. Address these common culprits, and you might find yourself with a newfound spring in your step.
Start making these changes today and say goodbye to chronic fatigue!