Tired of being tired?

Do you wake up tired? Get to the afternoon and you could do with a nap?

There are a few reasons why you might be experiencing some level of constant fatigue, and with a high training load this list increases. To narrow down some of the things that might be contributing to fatigue, consider some of the options below, listed from most likely to least likely. If any of these sound like it might be the reason let the dietitian know to discuss some options to fix it.

Poor diet
Each day the body has specific requirements for healthy functioning, if your diet is providing an inadequate level of nutrients you may be getting enough total fuel but it may be from the wrong types of foods so you aren’t able to use that energy effectively.

Blood glucose control
If your daily diet outside of training consists of largely processed or refined foods, foods high in sugar or you go long periods without eating anything your blood sugar levels may be bouncing high and low to create big swings in energy levels. If meal types, amounts and frequency are inconsistent it may have an effect on your blood sugar levels.

High training load
If you are regularly eating healthy nutritious food, you might be eating the right types of food but you might not be eating quite enough to match the demands of the amount of energy you are burning up through your training.

Hydration
Being dehydrated can mimic the symptoms of fatigue, and a 2 per cent loss in body weight can have a significant impact on performance. If you aren’t replacing the fluid you have lost through sweat and heat in training you may become dehydrated and fatigued.

Iron
Getting a blood test to assess your iron levels might provide some answers to your low energy levels. Iron helps to transport oxygen in the blood to the muscles and brain so it can function effectively. If you find that your iron levels are low you may need a supplement to build them back up again. However, if you want to maintain a healthy intake of iron this can be done though good dietary sources.

Allergies
It might be possible, if you are allergic or intolerant to a certain type of food that your stomach is not absorbing all the energy you think you are consuming. If you also suffer stomach upsets, bloating and discomfort or regular trips to the toilet, you could consider getting your diet assessed or a blood test to identify if you are intolerant to something you are eating.