Ask virtually anyone you know if they think they have enough energy, and chances are that nine out of ten will either roll their eyes or start laughing at the question. Most people, when asked about their energy levels, will admit to suffering from persistent fatigue and a general lack of enthusiasm and physical stamina. What causes this, what can you do to correct it, and when does a general feeling of fatigue mean something more serious?

There are many causes for feelings of fatigue, from allergies to a lack of sleep the night before. Even when someone doesn't get enough natural light, such as during winter months, they can feel tired and rundown. Stress can cause it as well; when the mind is trying to handle many things at once, or deal with a very difficult situation, it is kept at a state of heightened awareness that makes the body feel tired. A poor diet can also bring on feelings of fatigue - a lot of very heavy foods that are difficult to digest can make your system work harder, and this makes you more tired than you should be. It's thought by many that this is the real reason people get tired after Thanksgiving dinner; it's not all the tryptophan in the turkey but the fact that people eat the equivalent of two or three meals in one setting that makes you want to collapse on the couch! However, one of the more common causes for fatigue today is also a very surprising one - a lack of physical activity. This may seem like a contradiction; how can being physically inactive make you tired? Wouldn't all that rest give you more energy?

In reality, when you're very inactive all day every day, your metabolism slows down and this brings about feelings of fatigue. Anyone that sits in front of a computer all day can probably attest to this. Even though he or she hasn't been doing much throughout the day, they still feel a lot of fatigue at night. When you understand this cause, you might immediately understand the best solution - getting more active. That's right, if you lack energy you need to get up and get moving.

Being physically active on a regular basis is actually one of the best defenses against fatigue. It keeps your blood circulating and your lungs working optimally. This helps to keep you energized even when you're not active.

However, if your fatigue is persistent and accompanied by muscle or joint pain, chronic headaches, digestive disorders, changes, in mood, or if you have a tendency toward depression or other emotional disorders, you may want to consider consulting with a doctor. These can be signs of a more serious condition, and of course it's always best to be sure that your fatigue is not being caused by an underlying and serious medical problem before you try to treat it on your own.

Common vitamins and over the counter products can help with fatigue such as Iron, Vitamin B, Vitamin C, L-Carnitine, Guarana and Yohimbe.

The most common symptom of iron deficiency is extreme fatigue due to anemia. Even the slightest exertion can cause rapid heartbeat and an overall heaviness in the xtremities. Iron is vital for the production of blood.

Vitamin B taken together as B-Complex work together as a team to perform vital biological processes including energy production and efficient metabolic function.

Vitamin C is essential for defending the body against pollution and infection. It enhances the immune system and aids in growth and repair of bone and tissue.

L-Carnitine increases energy at the cell level by increased fat burning, increases the body's ability to remove toxic disease-causing compounds and helps cells live longer.

Guarana is a natural herbal supplement used to increase energy and fight fatigue.

Yohimbe is recommended for men and woman who enjoy an active lifestyle.

Always consult your doctor before using this information.

This Article is nutritional in nature and is not to be construed as medical advice.