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Article-Elevate-Your-Energy

ELEVATE YOUR ENERGY

Are your energy levels low? 

Energy levels can vary from person to person and there are many factors that can impact how energised or fatigued you feel. Energy levels can be affected by physical exertion, poor eating habits, emotional stress, boredom, or lack of sleep. 

Sometimes, fatigue is a symptom of an underlying medical condition that may require treatment. If you consistently experience low energy levels or fatigue that interferes with your daily life, it's recommended to consult with a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and guidance.

Is my reduced intake affecting my energy levels? 

If your appetite is reduced during your weight loss therapy, you may not be eating the right nutrients to support your energy needs. Additionally, in the early stages of weight loss you may be lacking in energy while your body adjusts to the new routine. It's important to prioritise good nutrition, rest, and overall self-care during your weight loss journey to support your energy levels.

How can nutrition support energy levels?

Dietary intake plays a very important role in your energy levels. To help with general tiredness and fatigue, consume a healthy, well-balanced diet and drink plenty of water.1 

Recommendations for fighting fatigue include1:

  • Consume a variety of fruit, vegetables, wholegrain foods, low fat dairy and lean meats

  • Reduce the amount of high fat, high sugar and high salt foods

  • Eat iron-rich foods, particularly women

  • Be careful with caffeine

  • Eat breakfast

  • Don’t skip meals

  • Don’t overeat.

There are specific nutrients in our diet that assist with the production and metabolism of energy. In addition to consuming a healthy balanced diet, supplementation may be beneficial to help meet your requirements. These nutrients include: 

  1. B Vitamins: There are 8 B-group vitamins, and many of these help the body convert carbohydrates, fat and protein into usable energy. 

  2. Iron: Iron is a mineral which forms part of haemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body. A lack of dietary iron can lead to dietary iron deficiency, resulting in fatigue and low energy levels. 

  3. Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10): CoQ10 is a compound involved in energy production within cells. It plays a role in the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the body's primary energy molecule. 

  4. Magnesium: Magnesium is a mineral which has many functions in the body, including the conversion of glucose for energy. 

If you have specific concerns about your health, nutrient intake or if symptoms persist, speak to your dietitian or other healthcare professional for individualised advice before taking any medication or supplement. Vitamin and mineral supplements should not replace a balanced diet.

 

Reference:

  1. Better Health Channel Fighting Fatigue Tips www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/condition-sandtreatments/fatigue-fighting-tips Cited 29.07.24