Three Ways to Battle Fatigue

Everyone deals with fatigue every once in a while. But are you hit by fatigue several times a week, or maybe even every day? If so, it's possible your body is trying to tell you something.

It's possible that, if you make just a few lifestyle changes, you'll find yourself dealing with fatigue less often.

Your fatigue might be cause by sleep deprivation.

How much sleep are you getting? If you aren't getting enough, that might be the cause of your fatigue.

Many people feel they don't need more than four or five hours of sleep because, when they first wake up in the morning, they feel great, full of energy and ready to start the day. But it might be that they just don't feel the effects of too little sleep until later in the day.

If fatigue is a problem for you, try going to bed an hour, or even two hours, earlier than normal. You might be surprised what a difference it makes.

Exercise regularly.

Regular exercise can help ward off fatigue. In fact, you'll feel more awake and alert hours after you've worked out.

Try to exercise for at least 20 minutes three or more times a week. Go for a walk. Go for a swim. Take an aerobics class. Ride a stationary bike. Find something you really enjoy, because then you'll be more likely to stick with it.

A poor diet can cause fatigue.

What you eat, or don't eat, may be what's causing your fatigue.

Some foods, like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, are packed with nutrients that help keep you feeling energized. And, while low-carb diets have been pretty popular the last few years, eating plenty of carbohydrates will help you battle fatigue.

Take a vitamin.

Skipping meals and dieting can deprive your body of the nutrients you need to ward off fatigue.

It's important to maintain a healthy diet. However, to make sure you're getting the nutrients you need to stay energized, consider taking a mult-vitamin and mineral supplement every day.

When to See a Doctor

Any many cases, getting more sleep, exercising, and eating right are enough to help you fight off fatigue. However, fatigue can sometimes a sign of a serious health condition. You should see a doctor if:

* You've tried everything, but fatigue won't go away.

* Severe fatigue strikes suddenly, and seems to have no cause (like you've just started working longer ours, or you've been dealing with a family crisis).

* Feelings of lethargy and fatigue last for two weeks or more.

* Fatigue is accompanied by nausea, fever, pain, muscle aches, or depression.

No one likes the run-down, worn-out feeling fatigue can cause. And, by making a few simple lifestyle changes, you can make fatigue a less frequent visitor.