Low Energy: 9 Signs You’re Underfueled
5. And you drag much more than usual afterward.
Yes, hard efforts—think long runs during half or full marathon training—can leave you feeling fatigued. But if you’re ramping up appropriately and fueling properly, you shouldn’t have to crash on the couch the entire rest of the weekend, says Samuel.
6. In fact, you’d rather just bail on the gym altogether.
Regardless of your fitness goals—whether you’re preparing for a big event or working out for stress relief and well-being—it’s normal to feel ebbs and flows in motivation, McConville says. Even the most elite athletes have days when they’d rather not train.
7. Your sleep sucks.
Although being undernourished leads to fatigue, you might struggle to fall asleep, or when you do nod off, you might find your shut-eye constantly disrupted. Episodes of low blood sugar can cause you to wake up feeling anxious in the middle of the night, McConville says. Your sleep quality also suffers, adding to the feeling of dragging; you might be exhausted even though you think you’re sleeping enough.
8. Your gut rumbles way more than it used to.
Underfueling can hamper the way your digestive system works and disrupt your gut bacteria, causing symptoms that include diarrhea, abdominal pain, constipation, and bloating. The experience can resemble irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), McConville says.
9. Meanwhile, your hormones and vitamin levels are all out of whack.
Bloodwork you get at the doctor may also show abnormalities of certain vitamins and minerals. “We get micronutrients from food, and if there’s a shortage of food, you’re going to have a shortage of micronutrients,” Samuel says. And merely popping a multi won’t correct the issue, because underfueling also decreases the absorption of key nutrients.
Conclusion
Low energy can be a sign of underfueling. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s essential to reassess your nutrition plan and ensure you’re providing your body with the necessary fuel to function optimally.
FAQs
- How can I identify if I’m underfueled?
- Pay attention to your energy levels, appetite, and sleep quality.
- What are the long-term effects of underfueling?
- It can lead to digestive issues, hormonal imbalances, and decreased overall well-being.
- How can I correct underfueling?
- Consult with a registered dietitian or healthcare professional to develop a personalized nutrition plan that meets your needs.
