TIREDNESS AND FATIGUE: CAUSES, REMEDIES AND NATURAL SUPPLEMENTS TO REGAIN ENERGY

How many times have we said the phrase: “but how tired I am”? In fact, tiredness is a widespread condition but, at the same time, very often underestimated.

Let's find out more.

Physical and mental fatigue: what's the difference?

Both physical and mental tiredness imply a sense of fatigue but are distinguished from different points of view. The first involves a reduction in bodily energy, while the second is the result of an intellectual effort and causes a decrease in mental abilities such as those related to decision-making processes and concentration. Physical tiredness is therefore caused by muscular effort and manifests itself with a decrease in the body's performance. In this case, energy is recovered with rest, adequate nutrition and moderate physical activity. As for mental tiredness, the causes of this condition can be found for example in a prolonged period of mental effort, as can happen to students in view of an exam or to a worker engaged in the realization of an important project. The symptoms of mental tiredness are evident: difficulty concentrating, reduction in decision-making skills, reduced reactivity and mood swings. How to remedy it? By taking breaks, implementing stress management strategies and, as a last resort, asking for the help of a professional. Although, as we have seen, physical and mental fatigue are two distinct aspects, they can still influence each other. For example, mental fatigue, especially if chronic, can manifest itself through physical symptoms and, at the same time, intense physical activity can also lead to mental fatigue.

When tiredness should be a cause for concern

Feeling tired occasionally is completely normal. But if the feeling of tiredness lasts for more than two weeks, significantly impacts your daily life, and gives rise to other symptoms, such as sudden weight loss or gain, confusion, and difficulty concentrating, then it is time to contact a health professional.

Tiredness and fatigue: the most common causes

Fatigue is a condition that can be caused by various factors. The main ones include:

• Nutritional deficiencies (for example, minerals such as magnesium and potassium and vitamins);
• Stress;
• Insomnia;
• Current infections, such as mononucleosis;
• Sleep disorders;
• Overworking;
• Mental illnesses;
• Chronic diseases;
• Diabetes;
• Thyroid disorders;
• Medical therapies;
• Dehydration;
• Intense sports activity;
• Change of season.

Magnesium and Potassium: What They Are for and Why They Are Important

As we have mentioned, a deficiency of minerals such as magnesium and potassium can be one of the causes of tiredness, both physical and mental. Magnesium and potassium are in fact essential minerals for human health: the first is essential for the correct functioning of muscles and the nervous system but also for controlling blood sugar levels, ensuring healthy bones and the heart, producing energy and synthesizing proteins; the second plays a fundamental role in the process of muscle contraction and in the transmission of nerve impulses, helps balance body fluids and maintain a normal heart rhythm, helps reduce the effects of sodium on blood pressure and transport nutrients into the body's cells. The functions performed by magnesium and potassium are interconnected and a deficiency of one can influence that of the other. A decrease in magnesium levels, for example, can cause cramps, fatigue, irregular heartbeat and promote the onset of chronic diseases such as diabetes and heart problems; at the same time, a magnesium deficiency can lead to muscle weakness, arrhythmia and increased blood pressure. Both minerals are therefore extremely important for health and well-being and should never be missing from your diet; if necessary, it may be necessary to supplement them, through the intake of specific supplements.

Supplements against tiredness and fatigue: which ones to choose and why

What to take for physical and mental tiredness? For example, natural supplements, a precious help for those who need a supplement of vitamins and minerals. If the goal is to combat tiredness and fatigue, there are specific products, such as the energizing supplements offered by Bottega di LungaVita: a wide range of items for all needs, which help restore energy and vitality, are distinguished by their exclusive formulation, based on top quality ingredients, and are practical and easy to take. For those who practice sports, Bottega di LungaVita sports supplements are particularly suitable, because they help recover energy and maintain the right levels of minerals such as magnesium and potassium. In this regard, specifically, you can opt for the magnesium and potassium supplement, a product based on magnesium, potassium and vitamin B6 (useful for maintaining a correct energy metabolism) ready to take in practical stickpacks

How to fight tiredness with lifestyle and natural remedies

Lifestyle also plays a key role in alleviating tiredness and fatigue. Measures such as ensuring regular, quality sleep, adopting a healthy and balanced diet, ensuring adequate hydration, exercising, implementing stress management strategies, giving up smoking and reducing alcohol consumption are all key factors in effectively combating tiredness. There are also natural methods such as practicing yoga, meditation and mindfulness; the so-called nature therapy, which consists of spending time in contact with nature, promoting relaxation and helping the circadian rhythm; finally, herbal remedies, although it is advisable to seek the opinion of a specialist before resorting to them.

FAQs about magnesium and potassium

Let's now answer the most frequently asked questions about taking magnesium and potassium.

1) Are magnesium and potassium together good for you?

Yes, taking magnesium and potassium together is beneficial for the heart, nervous system and muscle function;

2) Can I take them every day?

The amounts of magnesium and potassium to take vary based on factors such as age, sex, presence of pathologies or deficiencies. It is always necessary to follow the doctor's instructions and consult the leaflet of the supplements you buy;

3) How long does it take to feel the effects?

To feel the benefits of taking magnesium and potassium, it is necessary to consider the specific cases, but in general it can take from a few days up to two weeks or even one/three months in the case of chronic conditions for which a supplement of these minerals is necessary;

4) Are there any side effects?

Magnesium and potassium are generally considered safe; any side effects could be linked to allergies and gastrointestinal disorders.

Finally, remember that it is essential to always consult your doctor before taking food supplements as in some cases they can have unwanted effects or interact with existing medications or medical conditions. Furthermore, supplements cannot replace a varied and balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle.

Bibliography

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3. Noah L, Dye L, Bois De Fer B, Mazur A, Pickering G, Pouteau E. Effect of magnesium and vitamin B6 supplementation on mental health and quality of life in stressed healthy adults: Post-hoc analysis of a randomised controlled trial. Stress Health. 2021 Dec;37(5):1000-1009. doi: 10.1002/smi.3051. Epub 2021 May 6. PMID: 33864354; PMCID: PMC9292249.