6 Surprising Causes of Fatigue You Probably Didn’t Know About

We’ve all experienced days when getting out of bed feels like an impossible task, and the usual cup of coffee just doesn’t cut it.

While occasional fatigue is normal, persistent exhaustion could be a sign of deeper issues. Feeling tired all the time can disrupt your daily life and impact productivity. It’s easy to chalk it up to stress or a busy schedule, but there are often overlooked reasons behind this constant fatigue.

Beyond common factors like poor sleep or stress, lesser-known causes like vitamin deficiencies, dehydration, and exposure to toxins could be playing a role.

Here’s a look at five hidden reasons why you may be feeling drained and tips on how to regain your energy.

1. Dehydration: The Invisible Energy Thief

It’s surprising how often dehydration is overlooked as a cause of fatigue. Not drinking enough water can significantly impact your energy levels. Even mild dehydration can leave your body struggling to function efficiently. Without adequate hydration, your muscles and organs work harder, leaving you feeling exhausted.

How to fix it: Make hydration a priority. Carry a water bottle with you and aim to drink at least 8–10 glasses of water daily. Increase your intake during hot weather or after exercise to stay properly hydrated.

2. Vitamin Deficiencies: A Hidden Cause of Fatigue

When your body lacks essential vitamins, it affects energy production at the cellular level. A deficiency in key nutrients like Vitamin B12 and Vitamin D can leave you feeling drained and lethargic. Without sufficient vitamins, your body cannot generate enough energy to keep up with your daily activities.

How to fix it: Incorporate foods rich in these vitamins into your diet. For Vitamin D, spend time in natural sunlight and consider fortified foods like milk and cereals. For B12, focus on lean proteins like fish, eggs, and poultry. Supplements may be necessary if your levels are severely low.

3. Lifestyle Habits: Poor Diet and Overindulgence

Your diet and lifestyle play a crucial role in maintaining your energy levels. Consuming insufficient calories or nutrients can weaken your muscles and even lead to muscle mass loss, as noted by Mayo Clinic. Additionally, excessive consumption of alcohol and recreational drugs can deplete your energy reserves and disrupt your body's natural rhythms.

How to fix it: Focus on a balanced diet that includes fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Avoid excessive alcohol and stay away from drugs to support your body's energy needs.

4. Chronic Medical Conditions

Some underlying health issues can significantly contribute to fatigue. Chronic illnesses like diabetes, anemia, cardiovascular problems, and autoimmune diseases often cause tiredness. Sleep apnea, hyperthyroidism, anxiety disorders, and depression can also lead to severe fatigue, according to Cleveland Clinic.

How to fix it: If you suspect a medical condition is causing your fatigue, consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis. Treatments or lifestyle changes tailored to your specific condition can help alleviate tiredness.

5. Toxin Exposure: A Slow Energy Drain

Pollutants, chemicals, and even contaminated water can expose your body to harmful toxins that gradually wear it down. While the effects might not be immediate, long-term exposure adds stress to your body, leaving you feeling chronically fatigued.

How to fix it: Minimise exposure to toxins by using natural cleaning products, drinking filtered water, and avoiding heavily polluted areas whenever possible. Detoxifying foods like leafy greens and antioxidant-rich berries can also support your body’s natural cleansing processes.

6. Excess Screen Time: Disturbing Your Sleep Cycle

The blue light emitted by phones, TVs, and laptops interferes with your circadian rhythm, making it difficult for your brain to recognise when it’s time to rest. Prolonged screen time can delay sleep onset and affect the quality of your rest, leaving you feeling exhausted the next day.

How to fix it: Limit screen time before bed, and use blue light-blocking glasses if needed. Establish a bedtime routine that helps your body wind down naturally, like reading a book or meditating.