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Friday, 11 December 2009 00:00 |
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Symptoms of Fatigue
We have all suffered from fatigue symptoms from time to time. But for some, fatigue symptoms can recur frequently and may even become a chronic problem. Many frustrated people can be found scouring pharmacies, health food shops and the internet looking for relief from symptoms of fatigue, but is there a magic pill? Before we look at cures for fatigue, we first need to look at possible causes. Stress is one of the biggest causes of fatigue symptoms. Stress can wear us down slowly over a long period of time, depleting our bodies of essential nutrients such as B vitamins and magnesium, and negatively affecting our adrenal glands and nervous system. Long term stress can even lead to adrenal burnout, which has been linked to anxiety and depression. Nutrient depletion is another big one. Fatigue symptoms are more likely to occur when our nutritional reserves are low. Here are some examples of nutrients to look out for: Iron – Low iron stores in the body can leave us susceptible not only to fatigue symptoms, but also to poor immunity and infections. B vitamins – Need an instant energy hit? Try some B complex – it helps to maintain a healthy nervous system, feeds the adrenal glands, and helps to turn the food we eat into energy. Magnesium – This important mineral is required in order to produce energy in the body. Australian foods are often low in magnesium due to decreased amounts in our soils. Vitamin C – we know it’s required to ward off colds and flues, but what most of us don’t know is that fatigue symptoms can be a sign that we are not getting enough of this essential vitamin. We should be making sure we get enough vitamin C on a daily basis, as our bodies are unable to store it and require a constant supply. Chromium – Do your fatigue symptoms occur after meals? Do you reach for sugar or caffeine to relieve tiredness? You may benefit from taking chromium, a mineral which helps to balance blood sugar levels. Traditional herbal medicine is also a popular way to relieve fatigue symptoms. One of the more popular herbs is Siberian ginseng. Traditionally used by Russian athletes to improve stamina and performance, it has found a place in modern energy formulas in order to increase energy levels and improve our bodies’ resistance to stress. Because fatigue symptoms can have many causes, it is often difficult to pinpoint a single reason. A good plan of action would include a good quality vitamin and mineral supplement. Because fatigue symptoms and poor digestion can often go hand in hand, it is recommended that you take a supplement which is easily absorbed. For the best absorbed multivitamin supplements for Australians, click here.
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