Many women commonly feel a burst of energy one day and are massively drained the next. But have you wondered why you or the females around you have low energy levels that fluctuate so much? Well, women are controlled by hormones; along with that, lifestyle habits play a significant role in determining your energy levels. So, let’s dig into the details of this.
What Causes Low Energy in Women?
Hormonal imbalance and a hectic lifestyle are the top contributors to low energy and constant fatigue in females. Sometimes, they can be symptoms of underlying health issues or a result of certain habits that can be changed. Let’s delve into the two major factors that influence women’s energy levels.
Hormonal Fluctuations
A woman’s menstrual cycle has 2 phases: the follicular and the luteal phase.
The follicular phase (days 1-14) starts with the onset of menstruation when the hormones estrogen and progesterone are at the lowest of their levels. This makes exercise feel easier, and recovery times become quicker.
In contrast, during the luteal phase (days 15-28), progesterone levels reach their peak, causing your resting heart rate to rise and leading your aerobic capacity to a sharp downfall. This makes you feel hot, irritated/bothered, and exhausted.
However, in the luteal phase, progesterone reduces the availability of glucose to your muscles, causing them to tire easily, leading to low energy levels.
Lifestyle
While hormones play a significant role, lifestyle factors also play their part in decreasing energy levels in women. Factors like diet, exercise, weight, and daily responsibilities impact your overall energy levels.
For many women, life is a mere struggle between work and domestic responsibilities, leaving less time for proper nutrition. According to a 2018 study by the ONS, women have 5 hours less free time than men due to their involvement in more unpaid work like childcare and household chores.
Other than that, a poor diet that lacks essential nutrients can prevent your body from functioning optimally, leading to low energy levels and fatigue. Deficiencies in vitamins include
- Vitamin D
- Folate
- B12 and Iron
Helping Females Improve Energy Levels
If you often find yourself tired, lacking energy, or wanting to nap midday, don’t take it lightly. There are steps you can take to boost your energy levels; let’s explore:
Hormones
Start with understanding your menstrual cycle to optimize energy. During the follicular phase, hormone levels are low, so focus on activities that don’t require excessive stamina. As your cycle progresses into the ovulation stage, there is a boost of increased energy.
Whereas in the luteal phase, hormone levels drop, so rest and relax. If you suspect a hormone imbalance, consult a healthcare professional to evaluate and address the issue.
Lifestyle Modification
Diet plays a crucial role in managing your energy levels. Ensure that your diet contains nutrients vital for women, like B12 – a major reason for fatigue. Other than that, vitamin D, essential for bone health, also impact energy levels.
Closing Note
Contact San Ramon Urgent Care to learn more about women’s wellness and ways we can help you. Find us on the map at 9140 Alcosta Blvd Ste D, San Ramon, CA 94583. Call (925) 361-5959 (San Ramon), (209) 825-5155 (Manteca), or (209) 983-9000 (Lathrop) for more information.