We live in a fast-paced world, and if you haven’t noticed, there’s always something capturing our attention. When do we ever take time away from it all? Some of us never slow-down, and over time, we find ourselves with low energy.

There are many reasons why you’re tired, and I’ll give you ten reasons why, by addressing some possible dietary and psychological causes for low energy.

What Is Low Energy?

Low energy/fatigue is how the nervous system responds after being in a prolonged state of alarm that comes from low-levels of sustained stress.

Constant living under stress, without ever taking action to manage stress, ultimately drains the body, which leads to low energy.

The stress response is designed to activate for short periods, and many times we carry stress around with us, instead of managing it effectively.

Thoughts, feelings, beliefs, and even our lives are sources of stress, that’s why we must make a conscious effort to use stress management techniques to ensure that we don’t hold on to low-level stress.

Dietary Reasons for Low Energy

#1 Fast Eating

Eating fast activates the stress response. Stress slows down digestion.

Here’s what to do:

• stop eating fast
• slow down
• focus on your food
• deep breathe

#2 Macronutrient Imbalance

Macronutrients are carbohydrates, protein, and fat. If you’re eating a lot of one macro, and small amounts of others, it causes imbalances.

Here’s what to do:

• maintain a good balance
• incorporate all macronutrients in each meal

#3 Excess Caffeine

Coffee and other caffeine-containing beverages/foods are known for boosting energy, but caffeine also drains the adrenal glands. If you’re consuming excessive amounts of caffeine and still have low energy, something is happening.

Here’s what to do:

• decrease caffeine intake
• stop consuming caffeine
• use caffeine substitutes

#4 Excess Sugar

Who doesn’t love a sweet treat? Most of us do, but too much sugar is not a good thing. Sugar gives you a burst of quick energy, but the energy you get is short-lived.

Here’s what to do:

• decrease your sugar consumption
• read food and ingredient labels
• use small amounts of natural sweeteners, like honey or Stevia
• select high-quality carbohydrates

#5 Low Pleasure Diet

Are you depriving yourself of pleasure with food? Is your diet so restrictive that you are avoiding almost everything?

Here’s what to do:

• allow yourself pleasure with food
• permit yourself to have fun with food
• loosen up and relax

Psychological Reasons for Low Energy

Where your mind goes, attention flows.

#1 Anxiety

Anxiety is normal in stressful situations, but continued anxiety (fear and persistent worry about everyday situations) is what leads to low energy.

Here’s what to do:

• take time for relaxation
• pray about the situations of concern
• focus on what you can control

#2 Unforgiveness

Holding grudges and aughts is taxing on the mind, body, and spirit.  It makes you bitter, sick and zaps your energy.

Here’s what to do:

• forgive
• relax and let go

#3 With-Held Emotions

Don’t blow a gasket is often said to those who have pent-up emotions. It takes a lot of energy to with-hold your feelings.

Here’s what to do:

• express your emotions often
• allow yourself to feel the emotion
• deep breathe
• relax
• reflect

#4 Undigested Life Experience

Did something happen to you that shook you to the core? You continuously think about it, but you won’t talk about what happened. You’re walking around, holding in the experience and it takes energy to keep doing it.

Here’s what to do:

• talk it out
• write about your experience
• seek counseling
• digest the experience

#5 Lack of Trust

Is it hard for you to trust? Are you distrustful of almost everyone you meet? It takes a lot of energy to always be on the defense. Being distrustful wears on your mind, body, and spirit.

Here’s what to do:

• be open-minded
• embrace what is
• talk to someone

Bottom Line

Diet and psychology are a few reasons why low energy occurs. However, stress is a common denominator.

If you ever have low energy and you don’t know why; check the food you’re eating and your mental health. There you’ll find your answers.

Until next time.

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