April 16, 2020
Many mothers I know have two essential tools: a large coffee thermos and under-eye concealer. Let’s face it; if you look up “mother” in the dictionary, the definition would be “tired.” No matter how hard we try, that overwhelming fatigue seems unshakeable, especially since parenting is a full-time role without breaks or vacations. As a mom of four, I know this all too well.
A few years ago, I approached my doctor, who is also a mom, about my persistent exhaustion. Despite exercising, eating well, and sharing nighttime duties with my husband, I felt constantly drained. She chuckled and suggested that motherhood might be the root of my tiredness. However, she was willing to run some tests. I hoped for a simple explanation that could lead to a straightforward fix. Instead, I learned that my daily caffeine intake was merely a temporary solution. In reality, my coffee habit was raising my heart rate and disrupting my sleep.
The lab results showed that my vitamin D3 levels were alarmingly low. Instead of another oversized latte, I needed a quality supplement. My research revealed the serious effects of insufficient vitamin D3 on health.
If you’re like me, perpetually fatigued and surviving on caffeine, consider asking your doctor about these lab tests. Identifying the reason behind your morning struggle to get out of bed might uncover an easy solution. The best part? When you discover the source of your drowsiness, you can collaborate with your doctor to find a remedy, enabling you to keep up with your kids, work, and other responsibilities.
Vitamin D3
First, check your D3 level, also known as the “sunshine vitamin.” Vitamin D plays a vital role in bone health through calcium absorption, cellular health, immune function, and notably, reducing inflammation. There are suggestions that it may also alleviate anxiety and depression symptoms. Unfortunately, many Americans do not obtain sufficient vitamin D from sunlight or food. Low levels of D3 can leave you feeling fatigued, as I experienced. However, it takes time for D3 to build up in your body; consistent high doses are necessary for it to take effect.
Vitamins B6 and B12
After my breast cancer diagnosis, I adopted a mostly vegan diet and felt quite proud until daily dizziness and exhaustion set in. Routine tests revealed that my B6 and B12 levels were inadequate. These vitamins are essential for overall health, aiding in cell development, brain function, and immune health. Being water-soluble, any excess B6 and B12 is expelled through urination.
Thyroid Panel
Thyroid health is crucial for women. This butterfly-shaped gland in your neck regulates your metabolism, affecting how quickly you burn calories and how fast your heart beats. Thyroid disorders can result in symptoms like fatigue, weight gain, or weight loss. A thyroid panel blood test evaluates levels of TSH, T3, and T4, guiding your doctor in determining your next steps.
A1C
If you’re experiencing mood swings and intense carb cravings, you might have blood sugar issues. Request your doctor check your A1C levels, which reflect your average blood sugar over the past 60 to 90 days. This test can indicate whether you’re dealing with hypoglycemia, pre-diabetes, or diabetes, helping you and your doctor implement lifestyle changes or medication to balance your blood sugar.
Ferritin
I learned about ferritin’s significance when one of my children struggled with sleep. After investing in a sleep study and various remedies, a friend pointed out that low ferritin could be the issue. Sure enough, her levels were dangerously low, leading to a diagnosis of Restless Leg Syndrome. Ferritin is an iron-containing protein in the blood; low levels typically warrant a daily supplement, which needs monitoring to ensure improvement and restful sleep.
If your ferritin, D3, B vitamins, A1C, and thyroid panel results are normal, other factors might contribute to your fatigue. Conditions like autoimmune diseases, poor sleep quality, dehydration, and mental health disorders such as anxiety or depression could be at play. Even something as simple as constipation can leave you feeling drained.
Remember, just because you’re a mom doesn’t mean you have to accept constant exhaustion. While parenting is undeniably taxing, it’s crucial to uncover the real issue behind your fatigue. Avoid randomly taking supplements or following trendy diets in your quest for energy. Instead, let your lab results lead the way to a solution.
For further insights into related topics, check out this post on home insemination.
Summary
Constant fatigue can stem from various health issues beyond typical exhaustion from parenting. Lab tests for vitamin D3, B6, B12, thyroid function, A1C, and ferritin can help identify underlying causes. By collaborating with your doctor, you can find effective remedies and regain your energy.