5 Causes of Fatigue
Fatigue is by-far the number one complaint that brings patients into my office. It is important that the symptom is properly investigated and that the cause is determined.
Some common causes of fatigue are:
1. NUTRIENT DEFICIENCIES
B12 and iron deficiency are common reasons for someone to complain of fatigue. Determining the reason behind the deficiency is crucial! The reasons could be from inadequate intake, inadequate absorption (such as in IBS or IBD), or excessive blood loss (such as in heavy menstruation). So, as you can see it’s not just about giving the right pill – you need to figure why the deficiency is there in the first place!
· B12 is a vitamin involved in many processes that result in energy. It is commonly found in meat and thus may be deficient in those who avoid meat in their diet. B12 is also a key vitamin with regards to nerve health. In addition to fatigue, B12 deficiency may lead to nerve issues such as numbness, tingling or muscle weakness.
· Iron plays a crucial role in the transportation of oxygen through your body (as you know we need oxygen to live!). When you don’t have enough iron, the body does not transport oxygen optimally resulting in fatigue and reduced exercise intolerance – for some this may appear as breathlessness when just walking upstairs.
2. HORMONES
The thyroid and adrenal glands are two of the main players when it comes to energy production and fatigue, and it is no surprise that they are also closely connected. The thyroid gland (producing thyroid hormones) is responsible for a lot of the metabolism and energy production within your body. Your adrenal glands (producing cortisol) respond to stress and helps your body cope in stressful situations.
Now here’s the kicker – long term stress (physical, mental, and/or emotional) puts a burden on the adrenal glands and can lead to blood sugar dysregulation, fatigue, and other hormonal issues (like your thyroid!) Supporting your stress and hormones is crucial to energy production and overall health.
3. POOR GUT HEALTH
Firstly, we need a healthy gut to properly absorb the nutrients from the foods we eat. As previously discussed, B12 and iron are common deficiencies but multiple vitamins and minerals may become deficient when the body is unable to digest and absorb properly. Outside of poor absorption, an imbalance of bacteria can also contribute or lead to fatigue.
4. INFLAMMATION & INFECTIONS
When your body has inflammation or infections its resources go to handle this excess burden. Many chronic infections can result in a decreased immune system and associated fatigue. Chronic infections consist of things such as Epstein-barr (mono), Lyme’s disease, candida, gut infections, parasites, viral infections, etc.
5. LIFESTYLE & DIET
Now this last category is a common contributor to fatigue, and for some it may be the main source; for others it can often aggravate an existing fatigue.
There are many ways that diet can contribute to fatigue:
· Food sensitivities or intolerances: this causes a burden to the immune system and excess inflammation
· Blood sugar dysregulation: when our blood sugars are out of whack we feel it – hangry, food coma, and energy crashes can all be symptoms.
Lifestyle and daily habits play a huge role in energy - from exercise (type, duration, and recovery), sleep, and stress. Managing these are crucial to having optimal energy levels.
Other potential causes of fatigue that need to always be considered are:
· Depression or mood disorders
· Autoimmune conditions
· Insomnia
As a naturopathic doctor, I focus on treating the individual and listening to the whole story - no two patients are the exact same. There are many causes of fatigue, but with a thorough history, and appropriate lab testing, the cause can often be identified and a personalized treatment plan can be started. If you find yourself always complaining of being tired it’s time to get yourself feeling better and like yourself again - think of everything you could do with the extra energy! Click here to book your appointment now
Information can be empowering, but we all have unique health profiles and needs. Health-related information contained in this post is intended to be general in nature and should not be used as a substitute for visiting a Naturopathic Doctor. This article was written for information purposes only and was not intended to diagnose or prescribe. The above advice is intended to only offer a general basis for individuals to discuss their medical condition with their health care provider. Always consult your licensed physician.