Low energy...the problem could be deeper than B12

I regularly see people who are dealing with low energy levels.  Low energy can make it hard to get through daily tasks, let alone have the energy to make healthy choices and lasting changes to diet and lifestyle.  Interestingly, when we improve daily energy levels, we also improve sleep patterns, as our homeostatic balance regulates.

The current trend sees many people turning to high doses of vitamin B12 to help correct low energy levels.    While supplementing with any of the B vitamins can help to raise energy levels due to their role in the body’s energy production, B12 will not directly affect energy unless there is a deficiency present.  B12 deficiency is more common in those with reduced digestive function, such as the elderly or those with digestive disorders like Crohn’s disease.  Medications such as metformin and PPIs (eg. Losec) can also reduce B12 levels.  In blood tests, high homocysteine levels may also be an indication that more vitamin B12 is required. 

If you suspect you have a B12 deficiency, you can take charge, as vitamin B12 levels can easily be self-tested through Pathlab for around $15 + $25 sample fee.  

So, if it’s not vitamin B12 levels, what next?

Dysfunction of any type in the body, results in a compensation of some sort.  We understand this when we have an injured knee, and our opposite hip and leg compensates; ending up doing more work and getting tired.  But what about dysfunction in other body systems?  The natural compensation that we fall into for any dysfunction can use up additional energy - leading to fatigue. 

To help restore energy levels, you may need to look a little deeper at what body systems are performing poorly and need support to stop the cycle of extra energy use for compensation.

Brain burnout

When we look at energy use in the body, it is the central nervous system - the brain and its associated neurons that consumes around a quarter of our daily energy.  Therefore, when this system has to compensate for disruptions in signalling, it draws on a lot of additional energy.

Neuro Integration (NIS) treatments can see improvements in energy levels after correcting various disconnections in the nervous system. For example, automation between the left and right brain centres, correcting gait patterns and visual or motor processing can all help the brain to work in automatic mode, reducing mental load and fatigue.

The latest NIS treatments can also find and correct dysfunction in the circulatory and immune systems, which can also lead to improved energy levels.

Digestion regulation

Of course, we always go back to the gut too.  Reduced energy levels could be a result of not getting the energy requirements from diet because of poor digestive function.  Emotional stress and fast eating can reduce the acidity of our stomach, making it harder to break down and get all the great nutrients from our food, including B12.  You could look at strategies for managing emotional stress and mindful eating, or include bitter foods, digestive enzymes and digestive bitters formulas to help address nutrient absorption for your energy levels.

Dig deeper

In the end, low energy levels could stem from a very wide range of causes, including poor viral clearance, low iron levels, or other nutrient deficiencies.  I encourage you to dig a little deeper, and if you need some help, please get in touch to help find the root cause and restore your vitality!