Low energy is the number one reason people tell me they want to improve their diet and their health.
Yup, you read that right. Low energy is the new weight loss. And I think that says a lot about our society today.
A lot of people assume that they’re tired all the time because they’re not getting enough sleep at night. And that could be true.
It could also be the result of many other issues including anemia, diabetes, stress, thyroid imbalance, or a snoring spouse.
But here are three common factors in the chronic energy drain that you may not have ever thought of:
1. Unbalanced Blood Sugar
Many people are spending their day riding the blood sugar rollercoaster. Up and down, up and down. This takes an enormous toll on your system and leaves you drained of energy.
Stabilizing your blood sugar throughout the day will go a long way in helping you boost your energy.
Common symptoms of unbalanced blood sugar include:
- Fatigue
- Moodiness/overly emotional
- PMS
- Depression
- Irritable or shaky if a meal is late or missed
- Strong, sudden cravings for sugar and/or other carbohydrates
Build a daily diet that is made up primarily of low -sugar foods (foods low on the Glycemic Index) such as green vegetables, whole grains, meats, eggs, nuts, seeds, beans, legumes and low-sugar fruits such as apples, pears and berries.
Cinnamon has also been found to help stabilize blood sugar. Sprinkle it on everything!
Chromium is a mineral that helps balance blood sugar and also kill your cravings for carbohydrates.
Chromium is only found in small amounts in most foods but some good sources include Brewer’s yeast, broccoli, oats, barley, cinnamon, ginger and cumin.
Avoid high sugar foods, caffeine and alcohol as much as possible.
2. Overworked Adrenal Glands
The adrenal glands sit right on top of your kidneys and are responsible for many functions, one of the biggest of which is managing stress.
Classic signs and symptoms of adrenal fatigue include:
- General fatigue (even after a good night’s sleep)
- A suppressed immune system (getting sick a lot)
- Increased allergies
- Depression
- Cravings for foods high in salt, sugar or fat
- Increased PMS or menopausal symptoms
- Low sex drive
- Decreased ability to handle stress (feeling easily overwhelmed)
Restoring your adrenal function is a lot about lifestyle (sleep, reducing stress, etc.) but diet can also play a role.
Balance blood sugar. The adrenals have to work to help stabilize unbalanced blood sugar. Don’t make them work any harder than they need to!
The B-complex vitamins are lovely support for adrenals. Foods rich in B-vitamins include liver, grass-fed meat, wild seafood, seeds, mushrooms
Omega-3 fatty acids are important to nourish the adrenals. Try fish oil, flax seeds and chia seeds.
3. Hidden Food Sensitivities
When the dinner party host asks, “any allergies or food issues I should know about?” do you smuggly answer, “Nope!”
Well, these days food sensitivities are becoming more and more common (I’ll get into the reasons behind that in another post) and just because you don’t feel a stomach ache as soon as you eat a piece of bread or cheese doesn’t mean it’s not causing you problems.
Common symptoms of food sensitivities include:
- Fatigue (especially soon after you eat)
- Nervousness, anxiety
- Sweating
- Headache
- Stomach pain
- Diarrhea
If you think that you might have a food sensitivity or intolerance try an elimination diet for 21 days. After the 21 day is over, begin adding foods back in, one at a time, 3 days apart and notice how you’re feeling after each.
Common allergens to remove:
- Gluten
- Dairy
- Eggs
- Soy
- Corn
- MSG and other chemical food additives and preservatives
If you want more info on how to get your energy back I have a free guide for you that includes:
- 5 most common reasons behind fatigue – find out which ones speak to you;
- 6 energizing super foods that can help you get your bounce back;
- And some delicious energy-boosting recipes that you can start trying today.
It’s practical informaiton that you can start using right away to get your energy back and start feeling great again!
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