Running on fumes? 4 key lab markers every exhausted mom needs to check

anxiety wellness Oct 18, 2024

A tired mom sits at her computer yawning with a toddler in her lap

From 2024 resident scholar Dr. Alexa Torontow

If you’re in a phase where exhaustion, overstimulation and anxiety have become your everyday reality, I see you, mama. I deeply understand that feeling of being stretched too thin and wondering if this is just the way it has to be.

Motherhood is challenging—especially in today’s world, where so many of us do it without the village we deserve. But here’s the truth: feeling constantly burnt out isn’t something you have to accept. More often than not, there’s something deeper going on beneath the surface.

I see it every single week in my practice.

Far too often, the healthcare system lets moms down, offering little more than a pat on the back and a suggestion to “just rest.” It’s frustrating, disempowering and you deserve so much more.

You deserve care that listens to your unique needs, helps you connect the dots with your symptoms, and gets you back to feeling like the vibrant, powerful woman you are—not just the role you fill as a mom.

Here’s a startling fact: in Canada, moms spend an average of 61% of their lives postpartum. That’s WAY too much of your life to be spent feeling exhausted, anxious or overwhelmed. You deserve to feel supported, strong and thriving.

So let’s talk about a few key lab markers that can give you insight into what’s really going on with your body.

If you’ve been feeling like you’re running on fumes, it’s time to check in on these 4 critical areas:

1. Ferritin (Iron Storage)

Low iron is incredibly common in moms and can leave you feeling wiped out, anxious, and struggling to sleep.
Ideal levels: 40ug/L.
If your ferritin is under 40 or over 50, additional testing is needed to get the full picture. Low iron, especially postpartum, is even linked to postpartum depression—so don’t overlook this one.

2. Vitamin D

Sunshine in a bottle! Adequate Vitamin D levels are essential for supporting your mood and reducing the risk of postpartum depression.
Ideal levels: 120 nmol/L, with a bare minimum of 90-100 nmol/L.
Remember: test, don’t guess. Getting the right supplemental dose is key to feeling your best.

3. Thyroid Hormone (TSH)

Your thyroid is a powerhouse when it comes to energy and metabolism, and when it’s off, you’ll feel it.
Symptoms of low thyroid function include brain fog, fatigue, hair loss, constipation, and even low milk supply.
Ideal levels: 0.32-2.5 mU/L.
Even if your levels are “normal” but still above this range, it’s worth diving deeper. Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise.

4. Vitamin B12

B12 is your body’s spark plug; low levels can leave you feeling drained and irritable.
Ideal levels: 500-600 pmol/L.
While levels under 300 pmol/L are often marked as “normal,” they’re not enough for you to feel vibrant and energized. There’s a big difference between just functioning and truly thriving!

Mama, you have the power to feel so much better. It all starts with understanding your body, trusting your intuition, and knowing that you deserve optimal care—not just the bare minimum.

Being your own best health advocate is one of the most empowering things you can do. It’s the bridge from merely surviving to truly thriving.

You deserve to feel strong, energized, and at home in your body again. Let’s take that first step together.

Looking for compassionate, whole-person care that truly supports you through every step of your maternal journey?

I offer virtual naturopathic services that guide you from preconception to motherhood, ensuring you have a consistent, empowering touchpoint throughout your experience. Whether you’re preparing for pregnancy, navigating its challenges, or wanting to re-claim your health in motherhood, I create individually tailored care plans that meet your unique needs. From lab work to lifestyle medicine and evidence-based therapies, I’m here to help you feel strong, healthy and supported every step of the way.

Let’s work together to ensure you thrive in motherhood!

Visit my website to learn more about my virtual naturopathic services and online program, and book your free, 15-minute discovery call.

www.alexatorontow.com
IG: @dr.alexatorontow
📧 [email protected]

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