Why Do I need a nap every afternoon about 2 or 3 PM?
Why Do I need a nap every afternoon about 2 or 3 PM?
Needing a nap in the afternoon is only normal for babies and toddlers! It’s not normal aging. One of the things to look into is thyroid function—including energy levels and body temperature. Thyroid hormones exert some control in almost every biological function. If you also have dry skin, cracked heels, constantly cold hands and feet, your basal temperature is 98.6, or tend to forget words you know very well, your thyroid might need a boost. Thyroid hormones come in two varieties called T-4 and T-3. The T-4 variety must be converted to T-3 to do the work it’s suppose to do. That conversion happens in your liver and requires three iodine molecules. If you’re low on iodine, your functional thyroid will be low even if you have enough T-4 floating around. Try taking potassium iodide pills for a week or so and see if you quit needing naps in the afternoon.
You may also want your doctor to run a thyroid test. They like the TSH test, but you should also ask for a “free T-3” test. Most people feel best when their TSH is at 1 or below, though your doctor will tell you (wrongly) the “normal” range goes much higher. It’s a reverse test, the lower the number, the higher your thyroid function. Many women find thyroid function (like other hormones) declines with age. What isn’t going to be much help (and unfortunately is what most doctors prescribe) is a prescription for T-4 hormone (synthroid). There is a T-3 available though you may have to ask for it.