“Why am I always tired?” explains an expert

What do we mean by being tired all the time?

Did you wake up feeling tired this morning? You’re not alone. A YouGov study found that 1 in 8 Britons Most people feel tired “all the time” and a quarter of us are tired “most of the time.” There’s even an acronym for it: TATT (tired all the time).

People who say they feel tired all the time (or TATT) will be familiar with constant fatigue that can interfere with their normal daily activities. The reason may be physical, psychological or a combination of the two. It is worth investigating the causes of your tiredness – this may be due to lack of sleep, poor diet, excess stress or many other reasons. Once you have identified the source of your tiredness, it will be easier to understand whether dietary and lifestyle modifications can help.

10 Common Reasons Why We Feel Tired All The Time

1. Not getting enough sleep

Our body and brain use the time we spend sleeping to perform a number of important tasks. For example, the release of growth hormone peaks during the first 90 minutes of sleepIf you go to bed late or toss and turn without falling asleep, you won’t experience this beneficial spike. Over time, the effect of this will be to reduce your muscle mass and limit your ability to exercise.

More like this

Our Guide to sleep hygiene explains how you can adopt patterns and habits that facilitate sleep.

2. Work shifts

Working unusual hours or changing shifts that disrupt your sleep can make you feel more tired. Sleep experts estimate that Between two and five percent of all shift workers suffer from a sleep disorder that results in excessive sleepiness or interrupted sleep. These disruptions to our natural circadian rhythm make shift workers more prone to infections and diseases and are more likely to experience altered blood sugar levels and high blood pressure.

3. High levels of stress

It is normal to have certain levels of stress in daily life, whether it is from work or from juggling daily routine and responsibilities. However, if your stress levels become too high, it can seriously affect your life and Your ability to sleep wellIn addition to trying to minimize your exposure to stressful situations, implement practical strategies such as meditation It can help you better cope with stress in your daily life.

Check out our tips for a Conscious night routine to help you relax before bed.

4. Consuming too much caffeine

A cup of coffeeand the caffeine it provides, gives many of us a welcome energy boost, especially if taken at key times of the day, but over-reliance can leave us feeling tired and jittery. Drinking too much too late in the day is linked to increased insomnianighttime awakenings and daytime sleepiness. However, it is worth saying that Some people are more sensitive to the effects of caffeine than others.

5. Not drinking enough water

Being dehydrated leads to lower energy levels and poor concentration – simply A two percent reduction in body mass Dehydration appears to affect mood and increase fatigue. Filling a reusable water bottle and carrying it with you throughout the day can help remind you to replenish your hydration.

6. Nutrient deficiencies

Even if you’ve gotten a good night’s sleep, nutrient deficiencies can leave you feeling tired throughout the day, especially if you’re deficient in key nutrients like vitamins. B12, D or the mineral ironAlthough low levels of these nutrients are quite common, you should consult your primary care physician before starting a supplement program.

If you are trying to increase your iron levels, check out our The best iron-rich recipes and Vegan and iron-rich recipes for much inspiration.

7. Poor nutrition

Eating a balanced and varied diet is important for all aspects of health, including energy levels. If you don’t get adequate amounts of calories and macronutrients, such as protein, your body can draw on reserves and begin to break down fat and muscle stores, which can lead to fatigue.

You might think that a diet high in sugar provides plenty of calories to fuel the body, but studies suggest that these calories actually hinder our energy production and deplete nutrients from the other foods we have eaten, leaving us even more tired.

Stay fueled throughout the day with our guide to 20 foods that give you energyfrom bananas to brown rice and oily fish.

8. Being overweight

Being overweight increases your risk of chronic diseases. It can also increase your risk of developing Sleep disorders including sleep apnea, which can leave you feeling constantly tired. If you think this is relevant to you, talk to your GP for guidance.

Check out our quick and healthy meals to inspire you with recipes that will help you move forward with your goals.

9. A medical condition

There are numerous medical conditions that are linked to fatigue, including hypothyroidism, chronic fatigue syndrome, multiple sclerosis and Long CovidGetting the right diagnosis and treatment can help you feel better and improve other aspects of your health. If you have been suffering from long-term fatigue, talk to your GP.

10. Drug or alcohol dependence

Studies suggest that those who are dependent on drugs or alcohol are more likely to experience excessive tiredness. If this is relevant to you or a loved one, please seek professional help. Check out these resources for more information and support:

If you have taken steps to address the most likely causes and your fatigue continues for two weeks or more, make an appointment with your GP. He or she may suggest that you undergo an assessment. iron deficiency anemiaa underactive thyroid either sleep apneaAlternatively, your tiredness may be the result of a psychological problem such as depressionanxiety or a duel.

More wellness guides

Expert explains: What is serotonin?
Expert explains: how to sleep better
10 foods to improve your mood
10 ways to boost energy when you’re tired
Expert explains: What is the dopamine diet?
What is sleep hygiene and how to improve it?
Expert explains: How Ayurveda can help digestion