Fatigue - lacking energy... full stop!

Fatigue

Article by Angela Haldane

Q. I am a 49 yr old woman who experiences constant fatigue even though I eat well and I walk daily. I have been diagnosed with a goitre which helps to explain why I have been feeling so fatigued for the last 6 months. Is there anything natural I can take that would help with this lingering fatigue?

A. Follow the advice given by your doctor regarding your thyroid, as this sets your metabolic rate. Thyroid function is monitored by blood tests. I would assume with the diagnostic work up, that you would have had your iron levels checked also and vitamin B12 status.

Considering that you eat well, which includes fruit and vegetables, good quality protein and wholegrains, I would then consider your nervous system and adrenals.

If you have become fatigued after a stressful period, there are wonderful herbs to help you to recuperate and support your adrenal glands. These herbs are available through a registered medical herbalist (MNZAMH) – such as Natural Ange Ltd.
I recommend a practitioner range Womens Multi – which not only has the B vitamins, but iodine and selenium which is necessary for thyroid and breast health.

Other considerations are if the fatigue has come on after a virus – known as ‘post viral fatigue syndrome” in which a herbalist/naturopath would also be useful.
Heavy metals – mercury, lead, arsenic? This can lead to fatigue.
In a consultation, I can help you address these options and considerations. Diagnostic tests available etc

Allergenic foods can make people feel tired. For example, some people feel an improvement from eating wheat free. Try to identify the suspects, remove them for 3 weeks and then reintroduce as a food challenge test. If it is an allergen the symptoms will present quite clearly upon reintroduction. Otherwise an allergy test can help to identify the culprits.