Tired of being tired? You may need more than just sleep

By VICKY DeROSA

Commentary

Most people think that being tired stems from lack of sleep. That's not always true, actually. In fact, generally speaking, fatigue is due to many other issues. Bear in mind, however, sleep is very important. I must admit these days I plan my schedule so as to ensure generous amounts of sleep. There are tons of people who get plenty of sleep, but are still always exhausted. Today I would like to share with you some of the less obvious reasons for fatigue.

Too little exercise

I know it sounds contrary, but the more you exercise, the more energy you have. Sometimes the person who is always tired really does not exercise at all. Believe it or not, just 3 hours of exercise per week can increase your energy level. Just try it and see what happens in one month’s time.

Iron

I suppose this is kind of obvious, but you would be surprised how many people are anemic and totally clueless about it. If you think you might be anemic, increase your iron intake. Remember, it does not necessarily have to be red meat. My favorite ways to get iron are lentils and spinach. Not together, of course. Well actually, not so fast. Lentils and spinach combined are quite tasty.

Potassium

I am simply amazed when I run into people who don’t eat bananas. They are a great way to get potassium. There are many ways of course, but I love bananas for being so convenient to carry around. Have you heard of an apple a day? I’ve got to tell you, I always have one banana per day. Just remember, folks, it is really important to have some raw nuts every time you eat a piece of fruit.

Caffeine

It’s interesting you know, a lot of people tell me they are tired, and they also tell me that they drink a lot of coffee to stay awake. In large amounts, the caffeine may be having the opposite effect. Remember caffeine is good, but only in moderation. I must of course, reiterate that good quality coffee beans are a must.

Sugar

You know everyone jokes about crashing, but do you realize what that really means? Too much sugar will destroy your energy level. So, if you are finding yourself extremely fatigued, cut back on the sugar. The process of the sugar high to sugar crash has been found to actually burn up additional valuable energy. So be careful especially when you are putting sugar in your coffee drinks.

Vitamin B-12

I’m a fan, but I must tell you there is some controversy. So if you are nervous that vitamin B-12 might cause additional stress and anxiety, just make sure to substitute vitamin rich foods for vitamin supplements. Foods rich in b-12 include sardines, salmon, shrimp, scallops, and hormone free yogurt and milk

Vitamin D-3

There are many folks that are low in vitamin D-3 and, since it boosts your immune system, if you were desperately low that in itself might cause some fatigue. Listen, vitamin D-3 is so important that you might as well take it anyway, tired or not. (Generally speaking 1000-2000 mg per day is good. If you have found out from your physician that you are very low take 5000 mg per day for several weeks.)

Vicky DeRosa is founder and CEO of Studio V Health Corp. For more information, check out www.studiovhealth.com.