Why Are We Always Tired?

I’m always tired!

I lack the energy to get things done!

I get my eight hours but still feel tired!

Is there something wrong with me?

Lacking energy and constantly feeling tired is not due to one specific issue but can be caused by an array of reasons. Whilst some causes of excessive tiredness are diagnosed as medical issues which require attention and medication, other causes are things we can usually do something about. If you’re concerned about being tired all the time or concerned about someone else in the same position, read on to find out what could cause extreme fatigue and a lack of energy.

Bad Lifestyle Habits

This is one of the main causes of our extreme lack of energy. In recent years, the world has seen a huge push to go beyond your capabilities and maximise productivity. Whilst this has meant success for many, it’s also leaving the vast majority of us extremely tired. As ironic as it may sound, being too productive can be counterproductive. But that’s not the only thing that causes excessive tiredness. If you scan your life, you may find something within your routine that could be changed to increase energy levels and leave you feeling more alert and engaged.

Unwholesome Diet

We’ve all heard the saying, “you are what you eat”. But there’s an extension to the meaning of this saying that largely goes ignored. What you eat can also significantly affect the way you feel and behave with others. It can affect our responses, our actions and whether we have the ability to exercise or not. To prevent extreme tiredness and create energy within your body, consider consuming a balanced diet which is high in nutrient-dense foods. This goes for people who are under eating also as doing so can seriously lead to many deficiencies which causes tiredness.

Drinking Too Much Coffee

This one may come as a surprise for those heavy coffee drinkers out there. But did you know that whilst drinking too much coffee can lead to sleeplessness, tiredness, and excessive worrying? According to a study by the National Sleep Foundation, 462 women were found to have poor sleep quality due to being heavy coffee drinkers. If you are experiencing extreme levels of fatigue and find that you end up crashing often, consider cutting back to see if this makes any difference.

Lack of Movement

Unfortunately in this day and age, sitting and living a sedentary lifestyle has become widespread. Whilst this may not seem threatening at face value, over time the body becomes tense and stops producing energy. What’s more, your body burns fewer calories which can lead to weight gain and other illnesses. Try changing things around by taking a short walk from the desk. If you’re feeling ambitious, start running 1-2 times a week. Maybe it’s time to start yoga or pilates. Whatever it is, embed conscious movement within your day as it will contribute towards passing energy around your body and keeping you positive!

Not Drinking Enough Water

Not drinking enough water can heavily impact how you feel throughout the day. Staying hydrated helps maintain energy levels, and helps replace water loss from things such as urinating and sweating. What’s more, dehydration can affect your sleep cycle and your ability to stay focused. Consider drinking as much water as you can throughout the day. Although it’s crucial to remember to drink water according to your weight and activity levels. There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to hydration. So be sure to avoid drinking too much!

Anaemia or Thyroid Issues?

Sometimes, extreme tiredness and lack of energy have nothing to do with your lifestyle habits or drinking too much coffee. Sometimes, it could just be that there is a medical concern. Anaemia is a condition in which mostly menstruating women are not able to replace red blood cells when bleeding heavily. This causes a lack of oxygen being passed around the body and as a result, causes one to feel cold and tired. Tiredness can also be caused by anxiety, diabetes, fibromyalgia and hypothyroidism. If you feel that your tiredness and lack of energy are not due to the points mentioned above, consider visiting your doctor to discuss your situation.

Supplements to try include Floradix, Solgar B12

Main Image – Mel Elías, Unsplash