Quote:
Originally Posted by nadiahoney
I was bedridden for the past four years from such severe depression, just now starting to get back to my amazing shape before (I was always naturally athletic, but lost all my muscle.) I am so scared that at forty it is just too late to get it back. Also, I hate doctors -- I really do. I know my exhaustion is something more and have had to beg fro the most simple ?tests. Doctors are just such jerks. Why can't I at least get tests to find out why my hair is falling out, why I have zero energy, etc. ? It's rdiculous that I have to keep struggling like this. I wish all doctors would just....go do another job like shovel coal. There are no good ones for people like me. I am so very terrified right now because I can barely do the simplest thing -- please tell me it can get better and don't suggest getting a doctor to help because I have already tried for over a year.
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Hi, sorry for the late response. I didn't see activity on this thread for a long time, so didn't pay it much attention.
I can only offer possibilities and suggestions based on what you've said.
Exhaustion can be caused by:
- Depression ... you know this already.
- Lack of adequate sleep
- A slow metabolism (several possible causes of this). Metabolism is nothing but the measure of how well/efficiently your body produces energy from food or stored fat. If your metabolism is low, you're gonna be weak/fatigued.
- Bad nutrition in general. Or, more specifically, perhaps a lack of carbohydrates in your diet or too many high-glycemic carbs (sugars, starches)
- *** Hypothyroidism *** Have you gotten your thyroid level checked ? This is often the cause of much bodily dysfunction.
- As above poster mentioned, vitamin deficiency.
- Too much physical activity ? Cooking, cleaning, two kids, a husband, friends, the gym, no me-time ?
- Improper/inadequate breathing (too stressed, shallow breathing)
As for losing muscle mass (aka atrophy),
- Age: You seem to know this already. Yes, testosterone levels decline with age.
- Inadequate protein intake, for your activity level
- Inadequate rest/sleep. Sleep is when the body repairs damaged muscle fibers with the protein you give it.
- Inadequate exercise. Exercise stimulates muscle growth, so lack of exercise can and does definitely cause atrophy.
Some suggestions for improving energy levels:
- Adequate sleep - HUGE
- Better time management, which can lead to more discipline and regularity with regard to sleep/rest.
- Eating smaller portions more frequently, and each meal ideally containing some carbs, some protein, and some good fats (can go into details if you want).
- Kickstart your metabolism first thing after waking up: Eat a piece of fruit and drink a glass of water.
- Take plenty of deep breaths regularly during the day. Oxygen plays a vital part in metabolism and other physiological processes.
- Consume a good amount of fruits/veggies to get your vitamins/minerals. If you don't like fresh produce, at least take multivitamin tablets.
*** Please, please, don't hesitate to PM me with more specific questions. I'd love to work with you to try to come up with a better diet and/or exercise routine ***