Fatigue

Fuel Your Body with Smart Nutrition

The right nutrition helps support your well-being:

• Aim for 8 glasses of water or other hydrating drinks daily
• Focus on whole foods: proteins, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
• Limit alcohol and caffeine
• Speak to a registered dietitian who can tailor a plan to your specific needs
• Visit the Nutrition page for more in-depth information

Sleep Smarter, Not Just Longer

Create a routine that supports better rest:

• Go to bed and wake up at the same time each day
• Avoid screens and stimulation before bed
• Keep naps under an hour
• Wind down with a warm bath, quiet music, or meditation
• Get more insight on the Sleep Problems page

Make the Most of Your Energy

Use your strength where it matters most:

• Keep a log to track high- and low-energy periods
• Prioritize meaningful tasks and schedule them when you feel your best
• Ask for help with errands or chores—you don’t have to do it all
• Set realistic goals and don’t push yourself past your limit

Build Movement Into Your Day.

Research has shown that people with cancer who exercise regularly have 40% to 50% less fatigue. Once you’ve talked with your medical provider about what activities are safest and most supportive for your body, it’s time to get moving. It may not be easy, but once you get started, even light movement may help reduce your fatigue. 

If you don’t have specific exercise restrictions, here are some tips on getting started.

• Start slow, set goals and build up—perhaps begin by walking for 10 minutes a day and increase as you feel stronger
• Break up your activity into chunks if needed
• Choose activities that bring joy—gardening, stretching, dancing

Learn more on the Physical Activity page

Seek Emotional and Integrative Support

Fatigue isn’t only physical. It may help to:

• Talk with a therapist or join a support group
• Meet with a nutritionist to make sure you’re getting the calories, fluids, proteins and other nutrients your body needs
• Explore Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to shift thought patterns and manage mental fatigue

Visit the Coping with Your Diagnosis and Finding Community pages to learn more

Complementary Therapies to Try

You may find relief from fatigue through:

• Yoga
• Reiki
• Meditation
• Acupuncture
• Tai Chi or Qigong
• Massage therapy
• Relaxation breathing
• Cognitive-based therapy

Discover more options on the Integrative Therapies pages.