Modern stress is a handbrake. We’re experiencing unparalleled levels of fatigue, but why? Simply put, our bodies are trying to function in a world they weren’t designed to live in.
We’re experiencing unparalleled levels of fatigue.
A far cry from the simpler hunter-gatherer world our genes evolved in, each day we are exposed to an increasing amount of stressors, such as:
The psychological impact associated with finances, relationships, work, or health issues;
Processed foods;
Poor sleep quality and/or reduced quantity;
Electromagnetic field (EMF) exposure emitted from smartphones, TVs, Wi-Fi, etc., and excessive use of these digital devices;
Environmental toxins through air pollution, plastics, and synthetic home/personal care products;
A dysregulated body clock due to prolonged artificial light exposure; and
Prolonged periods of sitting.
As the body can’t differentiate between psychological and physical triggers, these factors activate the stress response, increasing the demand and strain on the body’s energy reserves. Unsurprisingly, this is making us tired. It is no surprise that fatigue is one of the top reasons people present to me looking for answers.
One primary reason for this stress-induced fatigue is that nutritionally, the energy demand is greater than what is being supplied by what would be considered a Healthy, balanced diet. This nutritional deficit is like speeding down the highway with 100 places to be, while unknowingly having the handbrake on the whole way. You’ll reach your destinations, but it’s going to take a lot more effort! In order to get everything done, it’s clear you’re going to need to pull over, take off the handbrake, and continue your journey with more ease.
Mitochondria Matter Too!
Having a nutrient intake that doesn’t meet your energy demands impacts your entire body. Within each of your cells, there are clever components called organelles, the microscopic contents that carry out your cells' functions. One of these organelles is the mitochondria, which look after energy production and work tirelessly to provide your cells with a constant fuel supply.
However, these mitochondria are very sensitive to psychological and physical stressors, which as we have already discussed, place a burden on our energy requirements. The nutritional depletion and cellular damage that can occur from stress therefore overly tax our mitochondria, comprising their function. The result, poor mitochondrial function, then leads to a reduction in overall energy supply and the presentation of fatigue.
So, in the midst of modern day stress, how do we meet these increased energy demands and kick fatigue to the curb?
Time to take off that handbrake
Luckily several key nutrients help support and protect your mitochondria against the brunt of daily stressors, which include:
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10):
A vital nutrient used by your mitochondria to produce energy, with research showing low CoQ10 stores are linked with increased susceptibility to fatigue states and chronic disease.
In addition to fatigue, stress is another cause of oxidative stress and inflammation in the body. CoQ10 carries strong antioxidant actions, helping to protect your mitochondria, and overall body, from the cellular damage that can occur from stress.
A vital nutrient used by your mitochondria to produce energy, with research showing low CoQ10 stores are linked with increased susceptibility to fatigue states and chronic disease.
Magnesium:
This essential mineral is needed by your body to help convert the food you eat into energy.
Also, a magnesium deficiency makes you more susceptible to stress, whilst stress depletes your magnesium levels – resulting in a vicious cycle.
B Vitamins:
Vitamins B2 and B3 are particularly required by the mitochondria to create molecules of energy but can become depleted in states of stress. However, other B vitamins like B6 and B12 also work to blunt the impact of stress on your body and modulate the production of stress hormones (e.g. cortisol).
Many contributing factors cause fatigue:
Nutritional deficiencies like iron, coq10, magnesium B vitamins, and many more
Inflammation and infection
Hormonal imbalance
Excess body fat
Mitochondrial dysfunction
Toxicity
Digestive and liver issues
Unstable blood sugar
Stress and mood changes
Poor sleep
Oxidative stress
Genetic factors
Underlying medical problems
Thyroid health
Fix your fatigue to go from Exhausted to Energetic
There is no doubt our exposure to stress is currently unprecedented, and the result? Our bodies may not be able to keep up with the energy demand and become fatigued. As your sensitive mitochondria can become damaged with ongoing stress, but are needed to provide you with optimal energy, the time has come to show them some love!
Talk to Maria today to see what your body needs is it any of the fatigue-fighting nutrients above, or is it one of the other many areas that may need addressing? Let's work together to create strategies to moderate your stress and other exposure.
I have developed a 4-Week Program to help you get your energy back.
Want HELP with Fatigue Now?
This Program provides Natural Solutions to boost energy!
Higher Health Consult with Maria Lucey
Hi, I'm Maria Lucey, founder of Higher Health Wellness Centre and passionate advocate when it comes to all things nutrition.
I am a qualified Nutritionist, registered with ATMS.
I am also a qualified health coach I studied with The Institute of Integrative Nutrition and I am currently studying Functional Medicine.
When meeting with me, we will go over a wide range of areas to ensure you get the best results possible when it comes to your health and nutrition.
Comments