Fatigue is among the most debilitating symptoms of having an underactive thyroid, known medically as hypothyroidism. While medication can help manage your condition, making certain tweaks to your everyday routine can likewise help you deal with the effects of fatigue better.
Regardless of what’s causing your underactive thyroid to underperform, below are some tweaks you can make throughout the day to combat fatigue.
In the Morning
Try to wake up at the same time every morning. Studies have shown that our bodies do better when we sleep and wake up in a consistent pattern. Take note, though, that this doesn’t mean you must wake up at exactly the same tomorrow if you didn’t catch enough ZZZs the previous night. What’s more important is that you have rested enough, but it could be helpful in ensuring that you sleep soundly and regularly.
Take hypothyroidism medications upon waking up on an empty stomach. Ideally, you should wait for at least an hour prior to breaking your fast, as some medications and food can hinder the absorption of medications.
Eat breakfast that will fuel your body well into lunchtime. Avoid processed food and those that contain simple carbohydrates, and opt for oatmeal or other whole grains and food items high in protein such as almond butter. Pairing whole grains and protein-rich food will prevent you from digesting the whole grain faster so you can feel fuller for longer and ensure that your energy levels and blood sugar stay steadier.
In the Afternoon
Come lunchtime, eat a balanced meal with good fats, non-starchy carbs, and proteins. Greek yogurt, avocados, eggs, and leafy greens are great examples.
If possible, exercise after work and before heading out to your home in Provo, as people with hypothyroidism can benefit from exercising. It can help flush out toxicities, boost blood flow to the entire body, and build muscle, which can help in boosting mitochondria (the cell’s energy unit) production. Exercise will also help keep your metabolism in check. Just always make sure to hydrate yourself before and after exercising.
In the Evening
Stick to a light and healthy dinner, as eating too much can make you feel sluggish and make it harder for you to get a good night’s rest. If you must drink alcohol, limit your intake before bedtime. Alcohol can interfere with the quality of your sleep and make you feel more fatigued upon waking up. Not to mention the calories it contains.
Give yourself ample time to unwind and relax before sleeping. Power off your mobile phone, computer, or TV. Rather than staring at screens before bed, do something else that will help relax your mind and body. Take a hot bath, write in a journal, or read a book. Your goal is to keep yourself in a relaxed state so you can sleep well and on schedule.
Put simply, it’s all about making certain lifestyle changes to prevent fatigue from setting in and ruining your daily life. Getting ample sleep, eating healthily, and exercising regularly will help you conserve and use your energy more wisely.
