If you're following a diet and exercise program, you are probably thrilled to see the number on the scale drop. However, if your weight loss is accompanied by tiredness or fatigue, you should see your doctor. You should also speak with your doctor if your weight loss is unintentional and accompanied by fatigue. These symptoms could be signs of more serious health conditions.
Dehydration
If you're shedding pounds intentionally, you should take steps to prevent dehydration. Increasing exercise requires increasing your fluid intake, too, the MedlinePlus online medical encyclopedia reminds. If you notice that you're shedding pounds rapidly in the first week or two of a diet, keep in mind that some of the weight you're losing is water weight. Make sure you're rehydrating with at least eight glasses of water daily to fight fatigue and maintain your health.
Cutting Carbohydrates
If you're losing weight and feeling fatigued, this may be due to a vitamin or nutrient deficiency in your new diet. Humans need an adequate balance of carbohydrates, fats and proteins as well as essential vitamins to function efficiently. Many diets require you to reduce or eliminate carbohydrates, which give your body energy. Diets that eliminate or greatly reduce carbohydrate intake may lead to fatigue, particularly when you're first beginning the diet.
Vitamin Deficiency
You may experience vitamin deficiency when dieting, particularly if you follow a very restrictive diet. According to the Mayo Clinic, symptoms of vitamin deficiency anemia include fatigue, pale or yellowish skin, sore mouth and tongue, unintentional weight loss, diarrhea, numbness in the hands and feet, irritability, muscle weakness, unsteady movements and mental changes. At the onset of vitamin deficiency, the fatigue or irritability may be your only symptoms, but symptoms may worsen as the deficiency grows. Vitamin deficiencies commonly stem from a lack of vitamin C, vitamin B 12 or folate.
Underlying Illness
If your weight loss is unintentional and you're experiencing fatigue, you should speak with your doctor about possible causes. She can order tests to assess what is causing your weight loss and fatigue. Some possible causes of unexplained weight loss include gastrointestinal disorders, cancer, endocrine disorders, infection, cardiovascular or lung disease and kidney disease, the Mayo Clinic notes. Many of these conditions also cause unexplained tiredness.
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