How to Fight Fatigue and Build Your Energy [Advice from a Physician and Award-Winning Author]

Half the year has passed and 2020 hasn't really been everyone's favorite. For a start, the pandemic has been around for months now and while potential vaccines and medication are being eyed, we must admit that we still have a long way to go.

Of course, there's the added stress brought about by other health and social issues. And it is no secret that most of us are not at our best right now.

Some people might also be experiencing fatigue--a state where one person lacks energy and motivation--without even recognizing it. This is an underrated metal or physical state of tiredness, where one feels exhausted almost all the time.

So given the current situation, what can we do to "save ourselves" from fatigue brought about by everything that's going on with our environment? Pacific College of Health and Science faculty member, naturopathic physician, and award-winning author Dr. Judith Boice advises fatigued individuals to take the following steps:

Review Your History and Current Lifestyle

With the pandemic, your lifestyle must have changed in one way or another. Take a moment to review your current lifestyle. And then take another to look at your lifestyle when you were constantly motivated and energetic. 

Excessive intake of alcohol or drugs can result in fatigue. At the same time, lack of exercise or some kind of routine activity could lead to fatigue as well.

Individualize Your Diet

If a diet worked for a friend, this doesn't exactly mean that it will work the same way for you. Keep in mind that your body is completely different from others, as should be your diet.

Dr. Boice says, "one size does NOT fit all," which means that we each need to study what we add to our diet, based on what our bodies and what our activities require. 

Get Tested

Although studies on this theory are still ongoing, it would not hurt to see a physician who's probably seen a lot more cases of fatigue than you. So if in doubt, see a doctor. Get yourself tested for thyroid and adrenal issues, chronic infections, and basic nutrient levels.

Seek Emotional Support

When undergoing a major change, seek emotional support. Remember that any form of recovery requires an effective support system.

So whether you're switching through jobs, or maybe changing a routine, or venturing into a new endeavor, make sure that you have a person who will be there to support you.

Increase Sleep

Dr. Boice advises her patients to reset their body clocks. Adults typically need about eight hours of sleep every night. Too little or too much sleep can lead to unnecessary daytime sleepiness, which then leads to fatigue.

Eliminate Simple Carbohydrates and Refined Sugars

Simple carbohydrates and refined sugars drive blood sugar roller coasters. The intake of too much of the wrong kinds of sugars can cause an imbalance in the biochemistry of the body, and later on might lead to fatigue.

Again, it is important to assess your body's needs before going on a diet.

Use "Classical" Medicine Systems

Consider classical medicine systems that view the body as an organism rather than a machine.