In today's busy world many factors can contribute to fatigue, including stress, lack of sleep, and poor diet. Here are some common causes for fatigue and how to combat them:
Limit caffeine — If you're having trouble sleeping, try limiting your intake of caffeinated beverages. You may want to stick with caffeine-free beverages after lunchtime if you find that caffeine keeps you up at night.
Limit alcohol — Alcohol consumption too close to bedtime can disrupt sleep patterns. Make sure that your last cocktail for the evening is several hours before you plan on going to bed.
Eat well — Eating a well-balanced diet is essential for feeling energetic. See
Food as Fuel for more tips.
Stay hydrated — The first sign of dehydration is fatigue. Visit Keeping the Family Hydrated for ways to keep hydrated throughout the day.
Get moving — Taking a quick, 5-minute walk around your office, block, or neighborhood can help you feel more alert. If you can't go for a walk at work, try doing some leg lifts, stretches, or squats in your office.
Manage stress — Too much stress can drain your energy. See our section on Stress Management for ideas on relieving stress.