Living a Healthy Lifestyle but Still Feeling Tired? Expert Explains Why

Fatigue is a state of weariness that drains an individual’s physical energy, mental focus, and motivation. Sometimes they go away after resting. However, there are times when fatigue becomes regular, and even rest cannot undo it. People often complain that they feel fatigued all the time, despite following a healthy lifestyle. There can be various reasons behind this. Today, this article will explain it to you.

To understand this better, we reached out to Dr Pooja Pillai, Consultant Internal Medicine, Aster CMI Hospital, Bangalore.

Why Do People Feel Fatigued Despite a Healthy Lifestyle?

Dr Pillai says that some people may still feel tired even after following a healthy lifestyle. Explaining the reason, she says, “This is because fatigue can have many hidden causes beyond diet and exercise.” She adds that common reasons include: 

• Poor quality sleep
• Stress
• Anxiety
• Dehydration
• Vitamin deficiencies such as low iron, Vitamin D, or Vitamin B12
• Hormonal imbalances such as thyroid disorders 

The expert continues, “Certain medical conditions such as diabetes, anaemia, sleep apnoea, infections, or heart problems can also cause ongoing tiredness. In some cases, over-exercising without proper rest may leave the body exhausted instead of refreshed.”

Tips to Prevent Fatigue

Dr Pillai shares some tips to prevent fatigue: 

It is important to maintain regular sleep timings.

• Drink enough water.
• Eat balanced meals.
• Manage stress.
• Avoid excessive caffeine.
• Avoid screen time before sleep.
• Regular health check-ups can help identify nutritional deficiencies or medical conditions early.
• Take short breaks during work.
• Allow the body enough recovery time after exercise.

When to See a Doctor 

Dr Pillai says that warning signs that should not be ignored include: 

• Fatigue lasts for several weeks.
• Shortness of breath.
• Dizziness.
• Chest pain.
• Sudden weight loss.
• Poor concentration.
• Low mood.
• Disturbed sleep. 

“If tiredness affects daily activities or does not improve with rest, medical evaluation is necessary to identify the underlying cause and start proper treatment early,” concludes the expert.

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Conclusion

When you feel fatigued despite following a healthy lifestyle, then it may indicate certain underlying issues such as hormonal imbalances or vitamin deficiencies. There can be other lifestyle habits as well, such as dehydration or poor sleep quality, that may be behind the cause. To prevent this, follow a healthy lifestyle and diet. However, if the fatigue is accompanied by other symptoms such as low mood, disturbed sleep or sudden weight loss, then it is advised to consult a medical professional.