Clients come to me in search of answers to weight gain, hormonal changes, and digestive issues. However, there's a prevailing challenge that the vast majority face: FATIGUE.
Once a skilled doctor has eliminated the usual medical causes of fatigue, like anemia, hypothyroidism, rheumatoid arthritis, or diabetes, we can delve further into unraveling the enigma behind your exhaustion.
As a functional medicine practitioner, I often investigate the underlying causes of fatigue.
Here are ten lesser-known factors that can contribute to this common issue:
Medication Side Effects Fatigue can be a side effect of various medications including blood pressure medications, statins, antidepressants, antihistamines, and proton pump inhibitors.
Micronutrient Deficiencies
Vitamin B12 and other B vitamins, iron, magnesium, and vitamin D are essential nutrients for energy production. Include these vital elements in your diet to support optimal energy levels.
Mitochondrial Function
Mitochondria, often referred to as the powerhouses of cells, are susceptible to damage caused by various factors such as pollutants, environmental toxins, infections, medications, or nutrient deficiencies.
“Burnout”
What is often referred to as "adrenal fatigue" is more accurately described as a dysregulation of the HPA axis. This occurs when chronic stress depletes both the adrenal glands and the nervous system, leading to exhaustion.
Stealth Infections
Conditions like Lyme disease, Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), fungal infections, or mold can impair the immune system and result in fatigue.
Gut Problems
Conditions like SIBO, IBS, and other digestive disorders hinder the body's ability to properly absorb vital nutrients essential for sustaining energy levels.
Hormones
The energy levels in the body can be influenced by various hormones, such as cortisol, DHEA, estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, and thyroid hormone.
Over-Exercising
Excessive or insufficient physical activity can result in feelings of fatigue and depletion in the body.
Over-Drinking
Caffeine, sugary beverages, and alcohol can exert stress on the nervous system and disrupt hormonal balance.
Emotional Stress
Fatigue can be caused by a range of factors, including anxiety, depression, and even sheer boredom.
The point to understand is that "fatigue" does not stem from a single, straightforward cause. It requires us to diligently investigate and uncover the underlying source in every wonderfully unique individual.