If you’re one of the many who find themselves feeling tired more often than you should, it may be time to stop brushing it off. Fortunately, you can learn everything you need to know about improving energy with a search online.
Sure, a hectic schedule and lack of sleep can definitely take their toll, but if you’re feeling tired all the time, chances are that something you’re doing (or not doing) may be to blame. Here are common habits that can make you feel tired.
Skipping Breakfast
It really is the most important meal of the day and skipping it can make you feel tired and sluggish all day long. Even if you had a big dinner the night before, your body uses up those nutrients while you sleep so you need more by the time you wake up. Eating breakfast kickstarts your metabolism and gives you the energy to start your day with.
Drinking Wine to Unwind
Wine does have a sedative effect and makes you feel relaxed, which is why so many people will have wine in the evening. What you may not know is that the sedative effect is short-lived and wears off as your body begins to metabolize the wine, leading to a burst of adrenaline that can wake you up during the night.
Not Getting Enough Iron
Your body needs iron to help oxygen travel to your muscles and organs. If you’re not getting enough of it in your diet, you can feel tired, weak, and irritable. You can increase your iron intake by eating iron-rich foods, like lean meats, eggs, and dark leafy greens. Getting enough of those foods? Then perhaps you’re eating them with coffee, tea, or another iron absorption inhibitor that’s stopping you from getting the most iron from your diet. Eat iron-rich foods on their own or with juice high in vitamin C to help improve iron absorption.
Exercising Too Little or Too Much
We have long been told that exercise can boost energy levels and improve your overall health and make you feel better. Research has found that engaging in regular exercise is better for fighting fatigue than taking a nap. On the other end of the spectrum, those who exercise too much or at too high an intensity can tax their adrenal glands so that they release too much cortisol, leading to some serious fatigue.
Cutting Out Carbs
Carbs have gotten a bad rap and more and more people are going on diets that encourage eating few to no carbs. Several studies have found that people on low-carb diets report feeling tired more often. While it’s true that loading up on the wrong kinds of carbs can make you feel sluggish; eating the right kind can actually help boost energy levels and fuel your body. Stick to unprocessed carbs and whole grains and avoid sugary carbs and white pasta and breads to feel your best.
Put an end to some of these bad habits and you’ll see a boost in your energy levels in no time!