My husband and I are suffering from exhaustion and tiredness after having two doses of the same virus on short succession. We don’t feel like exercising much - we do walk the dog but then have to rest when we have done this for at least half an hour. We are eating healthily and I take Echinacea. I prefer herbal remedies and am training in herbal and homeopathic medicine. What would you recommend to help build up our energy again?

I am sorry to hear that you and your husband are suffering from a virus. It sounds like you are both doing all you can to stay active at this time (walking is ideal!) and I appreciate that you don’t feel like doing more. 

As you recover you may benefit from a gentle energising drink, though I don’t mean the sugar-loaded kind! Balance Mineral Drink is made with a combination of vitamin D, calcium, magnesium and potassium which helps to reduce tiredness and fatigue. It also supports normal muscle function which may be of benefit since the muscles often get achy as a result of a virus.

It is also really important that you drink plenty of water at this time as dehydration can contribute to low energy levels further. So, drink 1.5-2 litres of plain, still water daily and don’t be tempted to turn to coffee or fizzy juice to boost energy levels further – these can actually dehydrate the body even more.

On top of this, eat at regular intervals to sustain energy throughout the day and get plenty of carbohydrates such as potatoes and bread which are good sources of energy.