Fatigue is a condition that leaves the sufferer with a sense of chronic and overwhelming tiredness. Hormonal imbalances are the leading cause, which is probably why women tend to suffer from the condition more than men. Sometimes, the tiredness does not disappear, even with sleep or rest, which can leave the sufferer feeling constantly drained and with a sense of hopelessness. Fortunately, however, there are ways of tackling fatigue, including watching what you drink. Read on to find out the typical symptoms of fatigue and the top three drinks that will help you prevent it.
Symptoms of Fatigue
The possible symptoms of fatigue are wide-ranging and can be both physiological and psychological. Below are a few of the most common symptoms that are often reported:
- “Brain fog” - problems organizing thoughts
- Sensitivity to light
- Stomach pain
- Muscle pain
- Memory lapses
- Poor concentration
- Headaches
- Insomnia
- Depression
Drinks to Prevent Fatigue
A lot of emphasis is often put on what people should eat to prevent fatigue, but there are also drinks that can help, too. The following list gives a few of the best ones:
Water
Staying hydrated with water is one of the best ways to stave off fatigue, as the body is 70% water, and so a drop in water levels can result in the major organs functioning at a lower capacity. One study by Tufts University found that even mild dehydration was enough to cause fatigue and dips in concentration. Although all drinks provide fluid for the body, it is best to stick with water because it has no unhealthy ingredients that might counteract the hydration or cause other health problems.
Chamomile tea
Caffeinated coffees or teas are a bad idea for sufferers of fatigue because they can cause jitteriness, energy crashes, and interrupt sleep. Therefore, switching to any non-caffeinated herbal tea is effective for that reason alone. However, chamomile is particularly good because it has been shown to reduce the symptoms of fatigue. The relaxing herb aids sleep naturally and has a calming effect on the mind and body, minimizing the anxiety and stress that fatigue can cause.
Peppermint tea
Mint is renowned for promoting calmness, so it is an excellent thing to drink before bed in order to promote restful sleep. It has also been shown to reduce stress, and therefore is a healthier alternative than reaching for the wine after a bad day, which typically only worsens fatigue. Peppermint has a strong smell and is often used for the aromatherapy benefits, so drinking and smelling it will give you the best of both worlds.
Fatigue can be debilitating and cause great amounts of distress. In order to combat it, it is important to watch not only what you eat, but also what you drink. Avoiding certain drinks, such as caffeine and alcohol will get you far, but actively drinking the right drinks should greatly reduce - or even eliminate - fatigue.
Sources
- Hospital For Special Surgery. (2012). Tips for Avoiding Muscle Fatigue When Exercising. Retrieved October 1, 2014, from http://www.hss.edu/conditions_avoiding-muscle-fatigue-exercising-tips.asp#.VCwq9bT9i1s
- Love, S. & Lindsey, K. (2003). Dr. Susan Love's Menopause & Hormone Book. New York: Three Rivers Press.
- Tufts Journal. (2010). Drink (Water) and Be Happy. Retrieved October 1, 2014, from http://tuftsjournal.tufts.edu/2009/12_2/briefs/02/
- Explore IM Integrative Medicine. (n.d). Eat Right, Drink Well, Stress Less: Stress-Reducing Foods, Herbal Supplements, and Teas. Retrieved October 1, 2014, from http://exploreim.ucla.edu/wellness/eat-right-drink-well-stress-less-stress-reducing-foods-herbal-supplements-and-teas/#herbal