Fatigue is a term used to describe tiredness or weakness. It is a symptom that may simply appear due to stress and hard work. However, it may also be a symptom of an underlying condition. In many cases, people tend to use energy drinks, caffeine, and other stimulants to boost their energy levels. Some doctors actually prescribe drugs like Ritalin or Adderall to treat it.
As I have discussed in my article on ADHD, Ritalin has a wide range of side effects and is better to avoid. Stimulants and energy drinks burn out your endocrine system and cause further deterioration of health. In this article, I will discuss a few simple remedies to overcome fatigue as well as several of the underlying conditions which may be causing your symptoms.
There are many types of fatigue:
-Physical
-Mental
-Temporary
-Chronic
In most cases, simply getting a good rest is enough to correct fatigue. However, some conditions may require medical intervention.
General Causes of Fatigue:
– Heavy Work
– Excessive consumption of refined foods
– Eating foods containing pesticides, preservatives, and which are genetically modified.
– Overthinking
– Constantly sitting in front of a computer, tv or simple lack of movement.
– Overeating
– Poor nutrition
Conditions That Cause Fatigue:
– Iron-Deficiency Anemia
– Vitamin deficiencies (B12, B6)
– Addisons Disease
– Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
– Low blood pressure
– Low blood sugar
– Infections
– Hypothyroidism
– Intestinal Parasites
– Liver Conditions
– Extreme Weight Loss
Remedies (Evidence-Based):
(Remedies Based On Cause)
Hypothyroidism, Anemia, Weight Loss:
– Ashwagandha (Withania Somnifera)
In cases of Hypothyroidism and Anemia, Ashwagandha may be quite beneficial. Being the primary choice for general debility, this medicinal plant is the number one option for by most Ayurvedic doctors in the case of fatigue. In clinical trials, Ashwagandha has been effective for:
1. Boosting thyroid function (see study)
2. Improving hemoglobin levels (see study)
3. Increasing muscle mass and strength (see study).
Poor Liver Function & Overeating:
– Ginger
In the case of poor liver function and digestion, ginger is the most simple yet highly effective (and clinically tested) remedy, for example:
In a clinical trial, the consumption of 2 grams of ginger resulted in a reduction in liver enzymes, insulin resistance, inflammatory cytokines and the grade of hepatic steatosis (see study).
Ginger also improves digestive function by increasing the rate of gastric emptying and improving the symptom of nausea – making it a great option for fatigue caused by overeating (see study).
Low Blood Pressure:
Tulsi is known for being a potent adaptogen and anti-diabetic herb. Therefore, if you suffer from chronic fatigue syndrome, Addison’s disease or Hypoglycemia, you should avoid this herb. However, in the case of low blood pressure, Tulsi has shown much promise.
In a clinical trial involving patients with hypotension, supplementation with Tulsi (Holy Basil) resulted in a significant increase in blood pressure (see study).
Addison’s Disease (Hypocortisolism)
– Licorice Root and Grapefruit Juice
Licorice root is known for its ability to support adrenal function and increase cortisol levels. In the case of Addison’s disease, Cortisol levels are reduced. To support the formation of cortisol and the availability of it in the blood, Licorice root and Grapefruit juice can be of benefit (see study). Also, keep in mind that cortisol is made from cholesterol, so in order to support the formation of Cortisol one requires an adequate amount of cholesterol in the diet as well as proper liver function. Keep in mind that DGL supplements will not have the same effect on Cortisol as regular Licorice root.
Nutritional Deficiencies:
– B-Vitamins (Specifically B6 & B12) & Iron
Vitamin deficiencies are getting much more common in recent times, mainly due to the fact that our mass-produced foods lack nutrients. As mentioned before, the lack of these vitamins and minerals, tend to result in fatigue as well as a wide range of troublesome symptoms.
Good sources of B-vitamins and Iron include:
B6 – Tuna, Salmon, Beef, Chicken, Banana, Spinach, Bell Peppers
B12 – Liver, Sardine, Chicken, Eggs, Cottage Cheese
Iron – Beef, Liver, Spinach, Seafood, Beans
(Speak to a doctor about which medicinal plants, vitamins, and minerals are needed in your case.)
AVOID:
Sugary drinks and foods, processed foods, junk foods, high sodium foods, refined foods, and sugars. Alcohol, sodas and other unhealthy drinks. Limit cookies, cakes, ice-cream, etc. Of course, it is not reasonable to completely avoid these foods, but at least try to limit them to the least amount possible.
(Always use medicinal herbs under the supervision of a doctor)
For more information contact me at doctornishal@gmail.com
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by Dr. Nishal R.
Copyright © 2016
DISCLAIMER: The information presented at this page is for information purposes only is not intended to replace the services of a doctor or healthcare practitioner licensed in the diagnosis or treatment of illness or disease. Any application of the material in this text is at the reader’s discretion and sole responsibility. If you have a persistent medical condition or your symptoms are severe please consult a physician. Statements on this web site about health conditions and remedies have not been evaluated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. The entire contents of this website are not intended for providing specific medical advice, but rather for the purpose of disseminating information. The information provided has not been evaluated by the FDA, and neither is it intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease or disorder in any way or form.