Exhaustion, or fatigue, is unique from sleepiness, although exhausted individuals commonly experience the need to sleep. Fatigue is associated with a reduced desire or motivation to perform your normal, everyday activities, according to MayoClinic.com. In some cases, underlying pathology causes fatigue. Certain dietary supplements may help treat your exhaustion and restore your energy. Review the immediate and long-term health ramifications of supplements with your doctor before using them.
About Exhaustion
Numerous physical or psychological factors may cause exhaustion: hay fever or asthma, decreased red blood cell count, grief, depression, chronic pain, sleep disorders, thyroid problems and the habitual abuse of drugs and alcohol, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Health conditions that may also cause exhaustion include malnutrition, cancer, eating disorders, lupus, heart failure, diabetes and infection. The pattern of your fatigue may help your physician diagnose the underlying cause of your exhaustion.
Appropriate Dietary Supplements
Several dietary supplements may be appropriate in treating your exhaustion. Dr. Joseph E. Pizzorno Jr., a naturopathic physician and author of "The Clinician's Handbook of Natural Medicine," states that the following dietary supplements may be helpful in treating your exhaustion: vitamins B-5, E and C, licorice, ginseng, magnesium, thymus extract and a high-potency vitamin-mineral. Not all of these supplements may be scientifically proven to treat your exhaustion and should always be used with caution.
A Helpful Supplement
Ginseng, especially Siberian ginseng, may be one of the most helpful dietary supplements in treating your exhaustion. Siberian ginseng, states MedlinePlus, has historically been used in treating numerous health problems, including stress-related problems, poor appetite and weakened immune system. Siberian ginseng has also been used in treating insomnia --- a condition that may contribute to chronic exhaustion. This supplement may help improve your athletic performance and your ability to work.
Disclaimer
In many cases, exhaustion is a temporary phenomenon that resolves itself. In other cases, however, exhaustion may last indefinitely, resulting from a serious underlying health problem that demands the attention of a healthcare professional. If you suffer from chronic exhaustion, schedule an appointment with your healthcare practitioner to discuss underlying causes and effective treatments. Before taking dietary supplements to increase your energy levels, discuss the merits and drawbacks of this natural health measure.
References
- MayoClinic: Fatigue
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Fatigue
- "The Clinician's Handbook of Natural Medicine"; Joseph E. Pizzorno, Jr., N.D.; 2002
- MedlinePlus: Ginseng, Siberian



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