If you’re feeling tired or run down, it’s possible that lack of sleep isn’t the only culprit. Instead of reaching for that second (or third!) cup of coffee, why not try out these handy tips, courtesy of the Today Show!
Glass of Water by Greg Riegler Photography, on Flickr
Have a glass of water Surprisingly, dehydration is a common cause of fatigue. As described in Psychology Today, dehydration reduces blood flow to organs, leaving you feeling dozy. So, try drinking a glass of water if you’re having trouble concentrating or find yourself craving a nap.
Switch up your workout As mentioned in a previous blog post, working out before bedtime can affect your ability to get a good night’s sleep. Particularly for women, prolonged exercise (running daily for over 30 minutes per session) can also lead to fatigue, as cortisol levels are raised. To combat this, incorporate interval training into your workouts. By mixing intense bursts of activity with weight training, you’ll feel more energized. Plus, cross training helps to build strength and cut down on injuries, so why not do it!
Check your iron levels Iron deficiencies can also be a cause of fatigue. Iron is needed to bring oxygen to the brain, so without enough oxygen, you’ll begin to feel fuzzy. If you think you need to up your iron levels, try eating more spinach, lean red meat, beans, or raisins. Or, have your iron levels checked out by your doctor.
What are your tips for beating fatigue and staying energized? We’d love to see your thoughts in the comments section below!
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