Ways to Fight Persistent Fatigue

Eric Freeman Pain Management Specialist Union, NJ

Dr. Eric D. Freeman is a pain management doctor and the medical director and founder of Redefine Healthcare. As a leading New Jersey pain physician, he holds numerous board certifications in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Pain Medicine, and is a certified independent medical examiner. Dr. Freeman has dedicated his... more

Chronic fatigue syndrome is a condition in which increased exhaustion is felt, working capacity is reduced, and concentration is noticeably lowered. Headache or muscle pain often torment you and sleep disturbances occur. These “symptoms” do not disappear even after a good rest as in the case of usual overwork when it is enough to get some sleep or take a short break to restore strength.

Why Do We “Hibernate”?

There are several causes of chronic fatigue and include frequent prolonged stress, poor or lack of sleep, poor nutrition, alcohol abuse, smoking, and hormonal disorders. Diagnosing chronic fatigue syndrome is not easy as indicators that would accurately indicate its presence do not exist and the list of symptoms is too wide.

In a recent study conducted by scientists at the University of California, it was found that all carriers of chronic fatigue syndrome have a slowed metabolism in their cells. All biological processes are inhibited and the state of the body resembles the hibernation of animals. To exit the energy-saving mode, the body must receive a signal that there is no more stress.

According to another study, the processes of chronic fatigue syndrome are similar to inflammatory ones and an increased concentration of immune proteins associated with inflammation is noted in a blood test. Scientists are sure that if this condition lasts for several years, you should not count on a quick recovery. A combination of methods that can include massage, yoga, meditation, and working with a psychologist can help “restart” the body. 

What is the Danger of the Sixth Cup of Coffee?

According to experts, there is nothing to worry about having a cup of coffee at breakfast. Another thing is when you drink five or more cups of the invigorating drink per day. The effect of caffeine is short-lived and the stimulation of the cardiovascular system is significant. Insomnia or drowsiness, loss of strength, and headache are common “side effects” of coffee overdose. Coffee leeches calcium from the bones so knee pain may occur.

Caffeine is a psychostimulant that stimulates energy but at the same time slows down the recovery of the nervous system. A person who is “addicted” to coffee falls into a vicious circle. The recovery time is increased and the body loses energy faster and requires another portion of caffeine. Even organic coffee often contains a large dose of cadmium, a powerful psychostimulant which with frequent use, provokes nervousness and causes addiction.

Where to Get Energy?

Any load, both physical and intellectual in non-stop mode can lead to overwork. The human body can not work like a machine and it takes time to recover. But moderate regular physical activity helps the body better cope with fatigue and stress. Walking in the fresh air for at least 15-30 minutes a day and airing the rooms is another way to feel more cheerful. A lack of oxygen leads to hypoxia which affects performance and disrupts metabolic processes.

Another option to replenish energy reserves is to undergo some relaxation procedures. Floating is a non-contact method of relaxation in which the flow of nerve impulses entering the brain from the senses changes. This allows us to relieve muscle tension, get rid of anxious thoughts, restore circadian rhythms, and properly relax.

What to Eat to Not Get Tired?

In most cases, chronic overwork is associated with a lack of energy, and the main source of energy is food. If your nutrition is unbalanced, meaning the balance of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates is disturbed, eventually a breakdown is inevitable. A striking example is a carbohydrate-free diet. Its observance in many cases depletes the body of energy, provoking fatigue, apathy, and even manifestations of depression.

Experts advise diversifying the usual diet with lean meat, seafood, green vegetables, fruits, nuts, whole grains, and fermented milk products. It is especially useful to add fish to your diet which contains omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. The doctor also recommends eating small portions every two to three hours as this will allow the body to regularly receive the necessary portion of energy.