Healthy Living Makes a Difference

1) Improper Food Selection, Dehydration & Overacidity

Poor nutrition and dehydration can lead to decreased energy levels and physical performance. Healthy Ingredients in adequate portions and Plenty of Water can help maintain muscle, increase energy and support metabolism! Focus on eating primarily: Whole, Raw, Alkalizing, Anti-Inflammatory, Antioxidant-Rich, Nutrient-Dense, Organic, Naturally-Grown/Raised ingredients. Also, consider Basic Supplementation to ensure you are getting enough nutrients to function properly and giving the body what it needs (i.e. Multivitamin/mineral + Vitamin D). Note that both B-Vitamins & Magnesium play critical roles in energy production! Also, over acidity in the body is the result of an acid-forming diet and mineral imbalances which depletes oxygen in the body. Consider Alkalizing Minerals (i.e. magnesium, calcium, potassium) in supplemental form and foods such as lemons, green foods/drinks/powders, etc.

2) Blood Sugar Imbalance

Refined foods and sugars spike blood sugar levels quickly, ultimately leading to a rebound crash response. Since the body cells use glucose as their main source of fuel/energy, inconsistent supply leads to energy crashes. In order to stabilize blood sugar levels and attain a steady release of prolonged energy, balanced meals/snacks should be eaten regularly (don’t skip meals – especially breakfast) that contain adequate Protein & Fibre as well as high quality fats! Note that low energy levels and fatigue are symptoms of protein deficiency. If you have trouble getting adequate amounts from your diet, consider supplemental powders. Be sure to stay away from refined foods and sugars and focus on whole, natural ingredients. Also, consider natural Blood Sugar Management Ingredients such as chromium, chirositol, berberine, etc.

3) Depression & Low Neurotransmitters

Depression is often characterized by low energy levels, excessive sleep and fatigue. This may be by a biochemical change in the brain. Low levels of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine are linked to low mood and motivation. Ensure adequate Mood Supporting Nutrients such as Amino Acids (i.e. Tyrosine, Tryptophan – building blocks for neurotransmitters), Essential Fatty Acids (i.e. High EPA Fish Oils – improve neurotransmitter reception) & Supporting Co-Factors (i.e. Magnesium, B-Vitamins, Zinc, Vitamin C & D – involved in all processes/conversions). Consider a 5-HTP supplement, which acts as a direct precursor to serotonin to increase levels. Note that the brain and gut are on a two-way street of constant communication/influence and that gut bacteria imbalance can cause symptoms of depression!

4) Underactive Thyroid

The thyroid governs our metabolic rate and when weak has difficulty sustaining energy output. Therefore, major symptoms of an underactive thyroid are low energy, tired head and muscle weakness. A TSH value greater than 2.0 can cause symptoms of low thyroid. Consider a Thyroid Support Formula with ingredients such as iodine, tyrosine and selenium.

5) Iron Deficiency

Iron is needed for hemoglobin production, a type of protein in red blood cells used for transporting oxygen to cells throughout the body! Therefore, iron deficiency is characterized by exhaustion and weakness. Also, Vitamin B12 and Folic Acid work together to help make red blood cells and support iron function in the body. Note that low stomach acid, coffee/black tea consumption and phytic acid can inhibit the absorption of iron but Vitamin C can help increase it! If blood tests indicate low stores, consider incorporating Iron-Rich Foods and Supplements!

6) Stressed Lifestyle, Insomnia & Overworked Adrenals

Cortisol is a hormone whose levels normally fluctuate throughout the day in a circadian rhythm. Levels are naturally high in the morning to give us energy but fall in the evening. However, high amounts of chronic stress, lack of sleep and caffeine intake cause the adrenals to increase cortisol production and interrupt this natural cycle. This can lead to exhaustion as eventually overworked adrenal glands become completely fatigued, losing the ability to make even normal amounts of cortisol and meet demands. The stress response also depletes nutrients and affects sleep patterns. Consider Stress Management Techniques, Natural Sleep Aids as well as adaptogenic ingredients (ashwaghanda, rhodiola, schizandra, and ginseng) in an Adrenal Support Formula to support your body in dealing with stress and to help regulate cortisol.

7) Poor Digestion & Inflammation

Digestion is impaired from poor eating habits, low enzymes/stomach acid, food sensitivities, stress, etc. This leads to imbalanced gut bacteria (dysbiosis), risk of overgrowth/infection, and tissue damage (i.e. leaky gut) which results in an inflammatory overactive immune response. These inflammatory compounds are directly associated with fatigue. In order to gain proper gut balance we should Improve Digestion/Gut Health (enzymes, HCL, L-glutamine & probiotics), as well as Avoid Triggers (poor diet, stress, chemicals, medications, common food allergens – i.e. dairy/gluten). Also, consider Natural Anti-Inflammatories in foods and supplemental form, such as essential omega fatty acids (i.e. high EPA fish oils) and curcumin.

8) Toxic Overload & Infection/Overgrowth (Candida, Parasites)

Fatigue can be caused by the buildup of toxins in the system which damage & disrupt cell function. These can be from either internal factors (poor digestion, constipation or infection/overgrowth – i.e. candida, parasites) as well as external factors (chemicals, heavy metals, medications, smoking, hormone mimickers, and artificial ingredients). Consider a Liver/Colon Cleanse and be sure to Prevent Constipation (fibre, magnesium, herbs). Also, Minimize Toxins in food, environment, body care and cleaning products, and Treat Overgrowth/Infection if necessary (with natural antimicrobials, probiotics and proper diet).

*Natural Energy Boosters: Maca, Yerba Mate, Bee Pollen, Moringa, Matcha, Aerobic Oxygen, Spirulina/Chlorella, Peppermint & Citrus Essential Oils as well as Regular, Moderate Exercise!

Ask a health care professional or product advisor for more information on these natural treatment options & ingredients to help counteract low energy!