Lack of energy is a common complaint, particularly among people in mid-life who are juggling families, careers, and household responsibilities. The everyday stresses of life can certainly contribute to a persistent state of tiredness. However, it can also be linked to medical and lifestyle factors, and the causes and symptoms may differ for men and women.
Causes of low energy in men
Low energy levels are defined as a persistent feeling of tiredness that makes it difficult to complete daily tasks without feeling exhausted; a desire to sleep during the day; a lack of mental focus and clarity; and low levels of motivation. These symptoms can be caused by a range of factors.
Low testosterone
Testosterone is the hormone that is responsible for male sexual function, and contributes to healthy levels of physical energy, sex drive, mood, and mental function. Testosterone also helps to keep bones and muscles strong, and prevents weight gain, especially around the belly area.
From about the age of 30, testosterone declines by about one per cent a year, which is a naturally occurring process and should not present any particular health problems. However, abnormally low testosterone levels can be caused by obesity, thyroid dysfunction; testicular injury; hypogonadism; or the side effects of medical treatment.
As well as a lack of energy and diminished sex drive, low testosterone can cause mood disorders, weight gain, problems with sleep, and erectile dysfunction (ED). It is possible to check testosterone levels with a blood test.
The condition can be treated with hormone therapy, but men should always consult a doctor rather than self-diagnose with home testing kits, because elevated testosterone levels can also cause health problems. The doctor may prescribe medication to specifically treat the ED, such as Viagra or tadalafil (the trade name for Cialis).
Depression
Depression is a common mental health problem, and although more women than men are diagnosed with the condition, the true levels of depression among men could be underreported.
This is because men are often less likely to recognise that they are depressed than women, and also less likely to open up or seek treatment for the way that they are feeling. Instead, signs of depression in men may manifest as low energy levels and a lack of motivation; sadness, irritability or anger; poor concentration and difficulty sleeping.
Undiagnosed depression can also cause a low sex drive and ED or sexual performance anxiety. Unfortunately, many men are reluctant to discuss their feelings due to cultural conditioning and the traditional belief that men should be strong and silent providers. ED itself can also perpetuate depression, due to the loss of close intimate relationships.
If you suspect that you or anyone close to you may be suffering with depression or related mental health conditions such as stress and anxiety, it’s important to take steps to bring it out in the open and discuss a way forward to improve mood and outlook.
Poor diet
A poor diet that is low in nutritional value, too restrictive, or too high in processed foods and sugar can be a cause of low energy levels. This may be an issue for men who follow every strict diet and exercise regimens in order to achieve a certain physique, or men who eat very few fresh fruits and vegetables and whole grains.
Eating a balanced diet that includes plenty of fibre, lean proteins, whole grains, unsaturated fats and avoiding processed foods can boost energy levels.
Lack of exercise
Exercise helps the heart and lungs to work more efficiently, which means that oxygen and nutrients are more readily available to the body’s tissues and organs. This enables the energy that is converted from our food to be used more effectively and so boosts energy levels.
Exercise also improves mood and can help people to feel more confident about their body image, which may help men who have a low sex drive or ED.
Other medical conditions
There are many medical conditions that may be causing low energy levels or chronic fatigue. These include but are not limited to hyperthyroidism; anaemia; diabetes; heart disease, and sleep apnea. It’s important to speak to a doctor if persistent levels of tiredness do not respond to diet and lifestyle changes, in order to rule out underlying conditions.
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