Energy Issues?!
Energy Issues?
I just became a vegetarian and after a few days I started felling really drained. I've been getting plenty of protein and carbs, sleeping 8 hours a night, and exercise regularly, but nothing has worked so far. Is there anything that anyone can suggest that may help.
-No answers like "eat meat", please.
Answers:
You would not really notice a difference because of your diet in such a short time.
What are you now eating for protein? It is a myth that you as an adult need 'lots' of protein. I would suggest eating plenty of fruit for breakfast and eating six meals a day rather than three. Splitting up your food intake keeps your metabolism higher than just eating three meals a day.
You need to make sure you are not now eating high fat protein such as cheese instead of your meat. I would also suggest eating less protein from dairy if you are simply vegetarian and eating more complex and lower fat protein such as beans and tofu.
You can find out more about a good vegetarian and or vegan diet form sites such as Veg Source (link below) and their beginners board is a great place to find answers to any questions you might have.
Good luck with your choice!
Source(s):
http://www.vegsource.com
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Nerves in the neck and back if stressed cause
lack of energy
You may want to make sure even if you are eating protein that you're getting your vitamin B's and Iron. You do need some fat too, like nuts and things.
Try drinking an Energy Drink or something that is Energy filling.
sorry i'd hate to say this put you need the various nutrients in the meat, remember this everybody is different, some people need to eat meat others can survive or do not lack the nutrients in meat, so basically "eat meat"
There can be a long adjustment period in any diet change. Many people will go through a detoxifying period where they even feel very ill, just like people who suddenly quit smoking and become sick and start coughing up all that sludge that was building up in their lungs. I suggest eating light meals, that is -- easy to digest foods, lots of water in between meals, and see if that helps. Whenever I feel a lack of energy there are only a few reasons such as: eating too much, eating too little, not enough rest/sleep, not enough nutrients, or have an illness -- those sorts of things.
Even if you listed the foods you eat every day, everyone is different, but gravitate toward healthful whole organic etc. foods.
I honestly felt very similarly my first week or two. I think this is the period that your body is getting used to your diet change. It sounds like your getting a lot of nutrients, but make sure you drink plenty of water, and I found it helpful to eat a variety of different foods that give you a variety of different nutrients. Iron is important, that could be the reason for the loss of energy. Also stress could be a cause for lack of energy.
Make sure your eating regularly. Try snacking. I'm also taking a multivitamin just in case.
Hope I helped, Good luck. Stick with it!
Try a caffeine tea and drink when the fatigue gets the best of you..hope this helps.
Hi there,
I wasn't going to answer this but after readng the other responses (some very good) I feel I do have something to add.
It could be your iron levels.. but don't just take iron suppliments without checking your body's needs first. Before jumping onto iron sups.. get a blood test from your doctor. Do that about 4 - 6 weeks after going veggie.
I've been vegetarian for 8 months now and feel great. (Lucky me) I mix my proteins - which is a good habbit. eg: making a dish with lentils (red are my fav because they're so easy) with some almond meal, or slivered almonds.
Nuts aere great for protein. I also eat a bit of dairy but am aware I may over do this - I love icecream hahhahaa
Stick with it for a while. Make sure your carbs aren't dropping off just because you're focussed on protein intake too.
Take a B multi-vitamin. Lots of B6, B12 etc with zinc etc. Should be able to get in one good tablet.
You'll come good.