The eight surprising reasons you might be tired all the time

If you're wondering why you're constantly exhausted, it could be a sign of an undiagnosed health issue. From subtle nutrient deficiencies to underlying medical conditions, there are a wealth of hidden factors that could be quietly draining your energy - and they're more widespread than you might think.

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1 YOU HAVE A CHOLINE DEFICIENCY

"Choline is one of those lesserknown nutrients that doesn't get the spotlight it deserves - yet it plays a big role in brain health, mood regulation, energy levels and even how well your liver functions," explains Healthspan nutritionist Rob Hobson. While our bodies can produce small amounts, it's not nearly enough to meet our needs, so we rely heavily on what we eat.

"Eggs and meat are rich sources, which is why vegans and vegetarians are more vulnerable to falling short.

"That said, it is not just about animal foods - plantbased eaters can still get some from broccoli, kidney beans, peanuts and even mushrooms, though the levels are much lower and you'll need more of these foods," says Rob. "So if you're feeling fatigued or low in energy, it might be time to look at your intake."

2 YOU'RE NOT GETTING ENOUGH SUNLIGHT

Vitamin D - also known as "the sunshine vitamin" - plays an essential role in providing energy to all the cells in the body.

If your levels are low, you may feel tired and run down all the time, making it difficult to get through your day-to-day activities.

Many adults are low in vitamin D, especially if you spend lots of time indoors. The sun's rays are not strong enough for the body to produce sufficient amounts of it in winter. In the UK, for example, the NHS advises taking a 10 microgram supplement daily from October to March.

Try to get 15 to 20 minutes of sun exposure a day in summer (without sunscreen on small areas like arms or legs), then apply SPF if staying out longer.

3 YOU HAVE AN UNDERACTIVE THYROID

Undiagnosed thyroid problems can lead to tiredness, weight gain and low mood - especially if your thyroid is under-active.