We can all feel that when we are unwell, it sets off a cascade of other low-lying lurgies and back-to-back illnesses that can make us feel sick to death of being sick. Some people are unwell a lot of the time, and you might think you are constantly getting colds, or you’re tired, or there is something that’s not quite right.
Let’s see if we can help you understand the reasons why. There are a number of factors at play, so let’s point you towards a few potential scenarios.
Genetics
Genetics is something that we don’t always consider, but it’s very important to look at your family tree or ask more questions. Were there people in your family that were unwell a lot of the time? This may point towards a hereditary condition like an immune system disorder or an overactive immune system. Tools like blood panels and even DNA extraction techniques could help you to uncover the problems in your past.
A Deficiency
Going for blood panels, where your blood is tested for a variety of conditions or vitamin or mineral deficiencies, should be your priority. Deficiencies are commonplace in the modern world, from iron to vitamin D. If you go for a blood panel or you ask for blood tests from your doctor this could point towards something that has been affecting you for years.
Food Allergies or Intolerances
Many people don’t consider the food they’re eating to stimulate an allergic reaction or some form of immune reaction in the body. It is estimated that approximately 0.5% of people have a gluten sensitivity, which is different from being coeliac or allergic to gluten and can have a number of detrimental effects, like bloating, brain fog, inflammation, or feeling like you’ve got a constant cold. It’s always a good idea to look at your diet and think that something may be the culprit. With common foods that cause intolerances like dairy and wheat, it’s easier than ever to conduct an elimination diet, where you remove this food from your life for a month and see how you feel before reintroducing it. If you have an intolerance to dairy, you may want to consume alternative milk sources, like soya or oat, or consume lactose-free milk.
Stress
Stress is the modern epidemic and is something that can adversely affect your health. Chronic stress can cause headaches, fatigue, problems sleeping, and infections, which will all make you feel unwell. If you are feeling overwhelmed or get anxious quickly, this will have a detrimental impact on your immune system over a long period of time.
It could just be that you are not taking care of yourself properly as well. You have to think that, despite all these components, you may not be prioritising your health. When we are unwell all of the time, we can easily get worried about the fact that we’re unwell. Having a look at some of these components could get you started on the road to wellness.