You're skipping meals
"Skipping meals, or even just not eating for a few hours, can cause blood sugar dips that leave you feeling weak," explains Dave Grotto, R.D., spokesperson for the American Dietetic Association in Chicago. So if you kickstart your workday with nothing but a cup of coffee, no wonder you're feeling fatigued before noon.Diet Rx: Don't skip meals! Start your day with a low-fat, high-fiber breakfase that includes plenty of complex carbohydrates such as whole grains and fruits. To build all-day energy, it's important to refuel every three to four hours so make it a habit to eat at regular times.
Energy zapper #4:
You're not getting the nutrients you need
Many women, epsecially those who are on a restrictive diet, are short on certain vitamins and nutrients, which can lead to fatigue. One nutrient we often fall short on is magnesium, which is involved in energy metabolism, says Dr. Ray Wunderlich of St. Petersburg, Florida.Another common deficiency: Iron. "Women often feel tired because they are anemic, or lack the iron needed to maintain the proper function of their blood cells," explains ob/gyn Judith Reichman M.D., author of Slow Your Clock Down. Iron-deficiency anemia afflicts about one in five women of reproductive age, particularly vegetarians and vegans who fail to eat enough iron-rich foods and have heavy menstrual periods or are pregnant.
Diet Rx: You need about 400mg of magnesium a day. To make sure you get enough, eat foods rich in magnesium such as peanut butter, almonds, green leafy vegetables and whole grains. Premenopausal women are recommended to take at least 18 milligrams of iron daily. Iron-rich foods include liver, clams, oysters, beef, enriched breakfast cereals and pasta, cooked beans and lentils. Taking a daily multi-vitamin supplement can help ensure that you are getting the needed nutrients for your body to function properly.
