Nutritional deficiencies to high stress: Why 85% of Indian youth wake up feeling tired

Hyderabad: A growing number of young adults are waking up feeling fatigued and drained of energy in India. This isn't just about a restless night or the occasional bad sleep cycle. It's a daily struggle that leaves millions of Indians battling exhaustion from the moment they open their eyes. This widespread issue is severely affecting the productivity and well-being of an entire generation, especially in the country’s urban centers.

Fatigue has become a common complaint, with people experiencing a major dip in their energy levels. As daily tasks pile up and work becomes more demanding, the ability to stay alert and motivated is steadily declining.

Experts point out that this chronic tiredness is a sign of deeper issues, such as poor nutrition and stress, contributing to an epidemic of low energy across India.

A recent Supradyn Fatigue Survey, conducted across 10 major Indian cities, has revealed startling statistics. The survey, commissioned by Supradyn, a multivitamin brand from Bayer, shows that 85% of Indian youth wake up feeling tired. The study, released during National Nutrition Week, highlights the urgent need for better nutrition and self-care practices. This growing concern has led to questions about what’s causing this rise in fatigue and how to address it.

Survey Findings: A Nation Struggling with Fatigue

The Supradyn Fatigue Survey, conducted by Hansa Research Group, involved young men and women between the ages of 25 and 45. Among its key findings:

- 85% of the population in cities experience tiredness upon waking up.

- 81% reported that their energy levels decline throughout the day, affecting their ability to stay productive.

- Two in three people find it difficult to complete daily tasks because of fatigue.

The issue is particularly severe among those aged 25-35, who are more likely to report fatigue compared to their older counterparts. This group faces significant challenges in balancing work, life, and health, and many are struggling with long-term exhaustion that hampers their performance at work and home.

What Causes Fatigue?

Prof. Dr. Ketan K Mehta, Senior Consultant Physician and Diabetologist from Mumbai, explains, “Fatigue among youth is a growing concern across the country. While lack of sleep is a factor, it’s not the only one. Poor diet, nutritional deficiencies, and high stress levels contribute significantly to the rising rates of exhaustion. When people don't get enough micronutrients, their body and mind struggle to function optimally.”

According to Dr. Mehta, food alone cannot provide all the essential nutrients required for optimal health. “A balanced diet can only provide around 70% of the necessary vitamins and minerals. To achieve 100% nutrition, it’s important to consider supplements like multivitamins, which can help bridge the gap.”

The Role of Nutrition in Energy Levels

The survey highlighted that 96% of respondents believe they lack key micronutrients, which is contributing to their fatigue. Cities like Pune and Bangalore had the highest proportion of people who felt their diet didn’t meet their nutritional needs. These nutritional gaps are directly linked to energy depletion and increased tiredness.

Sandeep Verma, Country Head of Bayer Consumer Health Division for India, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka, commented on the survey findings, “Our study reveals that a large portion of India’s workforce is struggling with low energy levels due to nutritional deficiencies. The mission at Supradyn is to address these gaps and ensure that people get the full nutrition they need to lead healthier, more energized lives.”

The Broader Impact of Fatigue

Fatigue doesn't just affect physical energy. The survey showed that:

- 74% of participants struggle to stay alert during the day, affecting their productivity at work.

- 69% find it difficult to complete tasks, and 66% report being unable to finish daily activities due to low energy.

- 65% of the population experience cognitive issues such as difficulty finding the right words or slips of the tongue when they are fatigued.

The impact of this widespread tiredness extends beyond physical exhaustion. It affects cognitive functions, decision-making abilities, and overall mental well-being, creating a ripple effect in both personal and professional lives.

Addressing the Fatigue Problem

The survey findings emphasize the need for a comprehensive approach to combat fatigue. While improving sleep habits is important, it is equally crucial to focus on nutrition. Many Indians, especially those in urban areas, need to reevaluate their diets and consider incorporating supplements to cover the nutritional gaps.

As Dr. Mehta explains, “A healthy diet rich in greens, proteins, and essential vitamins can greatly improve energy levels. However, with busy lifestyles, it’s often difficult to meet 100% of our nutritional needs through food alone. This is where daily multivitamins can play a crucial role in maintaining energy and overall health.”

Conclusion: Combatting Fatigue with Better Nutrition

The findings of the Supradyn Fatigue Survey highlight a critical issue facing India’s youth—chronic fatigue that stems from nutritional deficiencies and high stress.

To combat this, experts recommend a combination of better dietary choices, regular exercise, and multivitamin supplements to restore energy levels and improve well-being.