How to Increase Your Energy and Stamina
One of the complaints I hear most often from patients is lack of energy and fatigue. It seems that everyone is tired much of the time and we all wish we had more energy to get through the day. I believe that part of the problem with fatigue and low energy stems from our high stress, active lifestyles that so many have. We burn the candle at both ends, drink lots of caffeine and eats lots of sugary foods and then wonder why we’re tired all the time. Which leads to another big factor – diet. Unfortunately, the “standard American diet” – heavy on sugar, grains and processed foods - is almost guaranteed to cause fatigue and low energy. Yet another crucial factor in fatigue is often a lack of exercise and physical activity. We often find we are too busy to take time for exercise or outdoor activity that would help with fatigue. This can contribute to another possible cause of fatigue – being overweight. With obesity reaching epidemic proportions in our country it’s not surprising that so many also battle with fatigue. Finally, underlying organ weakness or dysfunction may be a factor in fatigue. Heart conditions, thyroid problems, liver problems, adrenal gland weakness and more can all cause fatigue in the body. Unfortunately, the drugs and medications – often used to treat these conditions - can also cause low energy and fatigue.
So if you have trouble with fatigue and low energy, what can you do about it? It often takes a multi-pronged approach. Here are steps you can take to eliminate fatigue once and for all.
First, get a Nutrition Response Testing® analysis. This allows us to assess your body for possible organ dysfunction or weakness and/or possible nutritional deficiencies that may be playing a role in fatigue. We have gotten good results in treating cases of fatigue and low energy.
Second, get a chiropractic check-up. Another possible factor in fatigue and low energy is subluxation of the spine. Subluxation (misalignment) of the spinal bones can put stress on the nerves and lead to reduced energy in the body. If you haven’t had a spinal check-up, get one!
Third, clean up your diet. Sugar, sugary drinks, starchy foods (think bread and potatoes), junk food, processed food and alcohol can all play a role in fatigue. I recommend you start slowing by gradually reducing any foods that may be a problem. Also, make sure you drink plenty of water. Dehydration can cause fatigue and low energy.
Next, get some kind of regular exercise. It doesn’t have to be a lot but it needs to be done on a consistent basis. I like doing things outdoors. The fresh air and being in nature is good for body, mind and soul. And if you think you’re too tired to exercise, that’s just another big reason you need to do it. Start slow, at what your current fitness and energy level will allow. Again, it doesn’t take much. A 20 minute walk three times/week can do wonders.
Finally, get plenty of sleep every night. While there may be a few who can get by with 6 hours or less per night, most of us need 7-8 hours of sleep to allow our bodies the chance to re-charge. Chronic sleep deprivation will eventually lead to worse problems than fatigue so make it a priority to get plenty of sleep.
The problem of fatigue and low energy can be complex to solve at times. Fortunately, the technology exists to help. Join us on Tuesday, March 20th at 5:30 pm for a free health workshop on how to increase your energy and stamina. I believe we can help! To reserve your spot, call today. 501-842-1004.