Fatigue & Low Energy
A Clinical Perspective
Persistent fatigue, low energy or mental exhaustion are common concerns, but they are rarely the issue in isolation. Clinically, fatigue often reflects broader imbalances in how the body produces, regulates and sustains energy.
Many people experiencing fatigue describe not feeling like themselves, struggling to get going in the morning, feeling flat or depleted throughout the day, or relying on caffeine or sugar to push through daily demands. Over time, this can affect mood, concentration and overall resilience.
Understanding fatigue
Energy is not generated by a single system. It relies on the interaction of multiple processes, including nutrient availability, blood sugar regulation, hormone signalling, nervous system balance and sleep quality.
When one or more of these systems is under strain, fatigue may develop gradually or fluctuate throughout the day. Over time, this can influence mental clarity, motivation, stress tolerance and recovery.
Common patterns I see clinically
Fatigue can present in many ways, including:
Ongoing tiredness that does not improve with rest
Inconsistent energy levels throughout the day
Brain fog or difficulty concentrating
Reduced motivation or drive
Feeling “wired but tired”
Poor stress tolerance or recovery
When fatigue is persistent or recurring, it often points to underlying contributors that deserve careful attention rather than dismissal.
Why Energy Regulation Matters
Sustainable energy depends on balance rather than stimulation. Adequate nutrition, effective hormone signalling, stable blood sugar and restorative sleep are all essential for maintaining energy over time.
When energy regulation is compromised, fatigue may be accompanied by mood changes, reduced stress resilience, impaired immune function and difficulty maintaining focus or productivity.
How I approach fatigue
As a clinical naturopath, I take a comprehensive and evidence-informed approach that looks beyond fatigue as a symptom to understand what may be contributing to it.
Care is personalised and may include:
A detailed clinical history
Nutritional and lifestyle assessment
Review of sleep, stress and recovery patterns
Functional testing where appropriate
Individualised support tailored to your physiology and circumstances
Fatigue is rarely driven by a single factor, and meaningful improvement often comes from addressing the system as a whole.
When testing may be useful
Functional testing can be helpful in some cases, particularly when fatigue is persistent, unexplained or not improving as expected. It is not always required, and many people make progress without testing.
When testing is recommended, this is discussed carefully and collaboratively, with attention to your goals, preferences and overall clinical picture.
Moving forward
Fatigue does not need to become your baseline. With thoughtful assessment and personalised support, many people experience more consistent energy, improved mental clarity, better stress tolerance and greater overall wellbeing.
If low energy has been affecting how you feel or function, you’re welcome to explore this further through a consultation.