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That’s the question many people ask themselves as they struggle to make it through the day. They are still tired after multiple cups of coffee, fancy energy drinks, or even energy-boosting pills. Fatigue is a growing issue. In fact, it is one of the top complaints people have when they visit a doctor. There is even a medical condition called chronic fatigue syndrome. No matter what the name is, the symptoms are still the same, people are simply tired. The key to addressing the fatigue issue is actually discovering and addressing the cause of your fatigue. Fatigue comes in many forms and its causes are numerous. But, almost everyone who suffers from fatigue has one thing in common: they don't want to feel tired all the time. Many people can make lifestyle adjustments to alleviate tiredness.
Others have medical issues that need to be addressed by a doctor or a similar medical professional. The bottom line is, fatigue is a signal that your body is overworked and isn’t getting what it needs to function optimally. Like your car needs oil and gas, your body needs good food, water, exercise, and adequate rest. These are all lifestyle-related issues that can be adjusted to eliminate many cases of fatigue. When it comes to lifestyle changes, making sure you get a good night's sleep is one of the first areas where fatigue should be confronted. Sleeping at night can help a lot with energy during the day. Alas, for many people, a good night’s sleep — at least consistently — is elusive. According to a 2008 study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 1 percent of adults in the U.S. reported a lack of sufficient rest or sleep for all 30 of the preceding 30 days! Some things that can contribute to poor sleep are caffeine late in the day, having the TV on in the bedroom, checking social media and emails just before bed, and not having a consistent bedtime.
If you are getting enough sleep, then there may be other lifestyle modifications you can make like eliminating coffee and other caffeine-containing foods such as chocolate and soda especially late in the day. Getting moderate exercise, having a healthier diet, and drinking lots of water can eliminate underlying issues that may be contributing to your fatigue. Another factor may be conditions that are not well managed like; anemia, diabetes, heart disease, depression, obesity, or thyroid problems. You may or may not even be aware that you have one of these issues. Remember fatigue is a symptom that there is something wrong. It is important to find and treat the cause of the fatigue instead of trying to treat the fatigue itself.
Very Berry Almond Smoothie
Ingredients:
2 cups Vanilla Almond Milk
2 cups mixed berries (fresh or frozen)
6 ice cubes
1 teaspoon raw agave nectar, or honey, to taste
2 scoops of Easy Meal French Vanilla
Instructions
Combine all ingredients in a blender, mix on high until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Serve immediately. Serves 2.
Dear Dr. Parkes,
My mother is a chronic joint and muscle pain sufferer. She takes medicine but still complains. Is there anything she can do in her everyday life to help? – J.O
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Dear J.O,
Here are some of my top choices for relieving chronic pain. Depending on your mother’s particular situation, she can try one or all of them.
Gentle moderate exercise –This can improve circulation and oxygenate joints and muscles to relieve pain. Try yoga or Tai Chi.
Warm Epsom salt baths – This relaxing treatment helps soothe aching muscles and relieve tension. It can also drastically improve sleep when done in the evening or at night.
Adding spices like garlic and ginger to the diet with an intake of high-quality fish oils can significantly reduce inflammation in the body which may lead to a reduction in pain.