Fatigue

Causes

Nutritional Deficiencies

There are a number of micro‑nutrients which play an essential part in energy production, and shortage of any of them will result in fatigue. Because of lack of space, we can only list the main ones.

¨ B vitamins; these work together in the conversion of carbohydrates to energy.

¨ Iron; for formation of haemoglobin in red blood cells. This also needs folic acid, B12, copper and vitamin C.

¨ Magnesium and potassium; magnesium is important in the formation of ATP, the cellular energy trigger. Lack of potassium causes muscle fatigue.

¨ Vitamin E; increases ability to utilise oxygen.

¨ Zinc; involved in a number of energy‑producing processes.

¨ Coenzyme Q10; part of energy production within every cell.

¨ L‑Glutamine; this and glucose are the two main fuels for the brain.

¨ Vitamin C and vitamin B5; Important for the adrenal glands and the production of anti‑stress hormones.

Shortage of Complex Carbohydrates

Complex carbohydrates (starches) in foods are gradually digested into glucose, the body's main fuel, and the easiest for it to use. If the body is short of carbohydrates, it is deprived of its main source of energy production, like an engine deprived of petrol. A constant supply is important.

Hypoglycaemia

Glucose is the body's main fuel. Glucose is a sugar, and other sugars are readily converted to glucose. Therefore sugars are an ideal source of energy. Right? Wrong! We have evolved to eat foods containing starches and sugars enclosed in fibre, which slowly release them into the bloodstream, producing a constant level of blood glucose that is natural to us. If we ingest neat sugar, this is quickly absorbed, and raises blood glucose very quickly to a level unnatural to us. This triggers an enormous release of insulin, which drives excess glucose into the liver for storage. The process overshoots, and the blood glucose level then drops too low. This causes reduced energy levels, and in extreme cases dizziness and panic attacks.

Adrenal Exhaustion

One function of the adrenal glands is to produce hormones that release sugars into the blood and increase blood pressure. If required to do this too often, they may become exhausted and unable to function properly. This can produce intense lethargy and depression. Stimulants such as caffeine work on the adrenal glands. Excess use, together with excess intake of sugar, which robs the body of nutrients, leads to adrenal exhaustion.

Treatment

Supplements

¨ High potency multivitamin/mineral; will supply the necessary B vitamins, vitamin E, zinc and iron.

¨ Multimineral; will supply sufficient amounts of magnesium, and extra zinc, iron and potassium.

¨ Vitamin C; at least 1000mg per day.

¨ CoQ10; 30mg per day.

¨ L‑Glutamine; 2x1,000mg per day between meals.

¨ GTF Chromium; to help control insulin function.

Diet

	Avoid sugars and refined carbohydrates.
	Don't miss meals; eat every 3‑4 hours to keep carbohydrate levels up.
	Avoid coffee and cola altogether.
	Keep tea to a maximum of 3 cups per day.
	Keep away from chemicals and eat a diet high in fruit and vegetables.

To buy any of these products, click this link: www.NationalNutrition.co.uk