Wake up, dress up, and show up! Welcome to the modern life of modern women. It is all about dragging yourself from one day to another. Certainly, this is a common feeling, something going on for days, and in some cases, it has been customary for years, and years.
So, when will Indian women ‘wake up?’ And by wake up, I mean wake up from slumber to realize that it is time to give their bodies the desired rest. As per Ishi Khosla, a Delhi-based dietician, most women complain of waking up tired – be it those in the corporate workforce or those managing their home kingdoms. She says, “Not only women, men too have a similar concern. What it reflects is poor gut health and excessive caffeine intake, among other reasons.”
Such is the reality of modern life. What more? The expert opines that those befriending caffeine when tired must realize that it is a counter-productive practice. “It is all about gut, girth, gluten, and glucose. All these are connected. Poor gut health and belly fat are key indicators that there is a bodily problem.”
Hence, despite getting a full night's sleep, many women find themselves waking up tired and sluggish, struggling to tackle the demands of the day. This further leads to an endless chain of stress and anxiety, hormonal imbalances, a sedentary lifestyle, and an unhealthy diet. Other key challenges faced by women in 2024 are building healthy microbiomes and managing carbohydrates and nutrient status. Micronutrient deficiencies, obesity, skin, and hair issues as well as mood disorders are some consequences. “Avoid excess sugar, trans-fats, salt, and processed foods,” says the dietician.
What can be done? Prioritize sleep hygiene. Women must establish a consistent sleep schedule and create a relaxing bedtime routine to improve sleep quality. Moreover, they can stay active through brisk walking, jogging, yoga, or any other form of exercise. Drinking an adequate amount of water throughout the day can also combat fatigue and improve overall well-being.
Lastly, it is essential to remember that small changes in daily habits can make a significant difference. Working women must address gut health with the help of a specialist and customize their diet. “Millets is a good choice to switch to. With this, a healthy and gut-friendly diet is crucial. My advice is to have your food intolerances checked and customize your diet,” says Khosla.
