For the mom who’s always running on empty—you’re not lazy, you’re likely lacking.
Let’s be honest—most of us are tired. Not just “I need a nap” tired. More like “my bones are tired,” “my eyes are open but I’m not really here” kind of tired.
And as Guyanese moms, we tend to brush it off.
“Is sleep ever really part of the plan?”
“Maybe I need another coffee.”
“I just have too much on my plate.”
But here’s the truth: chronic fatigue isn’t always about lack of rest. Sometimes, your body is waving a red flag—begging for nutrients it’s not getting enough of.
Here are 3 common deficiencies that could be draining your energy without you even realizing it:
1. Iron
Why it matters: Iron helps your body make hemoglobin, which carries oxygen to your cells. If you don’t have enough iron, you’ll feel weak, dizzy, short of breath, and yes—tired all the time.
What to look for:
- Pale skin
- Hair shedding more than usual
- Rapid heartbeat when walking short distances
- Constant tiredness, even after sleeping
Where to get it naturally:
- Boulanger, spinach, bora
- Liver, beef, fish
- Iron-fortified cereals (check the label!)
Local tip: Pair your iron-rich food with something high in vitamin C—like a glass of fresh lime juice—to help your body absorb it better. Avoid drinking tea or coffee right after meals, as they can block iron absorption.
2. Vitamin B12
Why it matters: B12 supports nerve function and energy production. If your levels are low, you may feel foggy-headed, irritable, or physically drained.
What to look for:
- Tingling in your hands or feet
- Brain fog
- Mood swings
- Weakness or balance issues
Where to get it:
- Eggs, cheese, milk
- Chicken, fish, beef
- Some cereals and plant milks (fortified)
Heads up: If you’re vegan or mostly plant-based, you might need a supplement. Many women in Guyana go undiagnosed with B12 deficiency because symptoms creep in slowly and are mistaken for stress or burnout.
3. Magnesium
Why it matters: Magnesium plays a big role in muscle function, sleep quality, and stress response. Low levels can leave you feeling wired-but-tired—physically exhausted, but still unable to relax or sleep properly.
What to look for:
- Trouble falling or staying asleep
- Muscle cramps or twitching
- Anxiety or irritability
- Headaches or migraines
Where to get it:
- Eddoes, cassava, plantain
- Peanuts, pumpkin seeds
- Whole grains, beans, leafy greens
Local tip: Soaking your feet in Epsom salts (magnesium sulfate) can help too—it’s not just an old wife’s tale!
What You Can Do
Start by looking at what you’re eating daily—what’s missing? Visit your local Health Center and ask your doctor for a blood test if you’re unsure. A simple supplement or a few diet tweaks might make a world of difference.
And please—don’t feel guilty for being tired.
Being a mom is hard enough. Being one with nutrient gaps makes it even harder.
Take care of yourself like you do everyone else. You deserve to feel good in your body again.
💌 Want More Real, Helpful Wellness Tips Like This?
Join our Guided Motherhood community list and get trusted advice, freebies, relatable mom content, and feel-good reminders straight to your inbox—written just for moms in Guyana.
👉🏽 SIGN UP HERE!
We’re not spamming you—we’re walking this motherhood thing with you.
