There are a whole slew of reasons why you might constantly feel tired, ranging from simple — like skimping on sleep — to more complex — like chronic fatigue syndrome. If you are skimping on sleep, that’s an easy fix. Do your body a favor and make more time for some quality Zzz’s.
If you think your fatigue might be tied to something more serious, it might be time to check in with a health care professional. Chronic fatigue syndrome is real — it affects up to 2.5 million Americans. Symptoms are varied and no definitive cause has been identified, which makes diagnosis difficult. But if you think you may be suffering from chronic fatigue, here are seven natural treatments that might help:
- Exercise according to your ability
Working out might be the last thing on your mind if you’re constantly tired, but it could help boost your energy levels. Exercise according to your ability now and focus on increasing the amount you can handle. Research shows that a combination of aerobic activity and strength training can improve symptoms of pain and fatigue.
- Try Supplements
Supplementing with nutrients that are important for cellular energy synthesis could help raise your energy levels naturally. Try ubiquinol and D-ribose. L-arginine and alpha lipoic acid (ALA) may also help.
- Heal your gut
The gut is often called the “second brain” — and for good reason. Most of your serotonin is stored in your gut. When your gut lining is damaged, leaky gut syndrome can occur, causing an immune response and inflammation throughout the body. Fill your diet with healthy, whole foods, including fermented foods. Bone broth is also a good choice. It’s rich in collagen and glutamine — both helpful for treating gut issues.
- Manage your stress
This is often easier said than done, but if stress is overwhelming you, inflammation and disease could run rampant. Try yoga, nature walks, reading, meditation — whatever works for you. The Emotional Freedom Techniques might also help.
- Detox your diet
Get rid of junk food, soda, alcohol — anything that might be dragging you down. Add detox foods to your diet to help your body health naturally. Try garlic, cilantro, spirulina and sage.
- Get restorative sleep
You cannot skimp on sleep and expect to be healthy. Sleep is a vital part of health and disease prevention. If you’re tossing and turning, try darkening the room, turning on a fan or white noise machine, taking all electronics out of the bedroom and engaging in a relaxing activity before bed, like reading.