"...lack of energy, wanting to sleep all the time, what can be politely described as persistant gastro-intestinal distress...."
Get your thyroid checked. Last year I had the exact same symptoms. TSH tested at about 5.00 which used to be marked "normal" but is now considered marginal (thyroid still functioning, but at a sub-optimal level). Went on low dose thyroid replacement. The falling asleep thing and gastro ill-mannerisms went away almost immediately. I could name a dozen other folks with the same issue (mom, great-uncle, friends). It's very common, probably related to changes in the hormonal system as we age. Likely comes on more noticeably during winter because of the higher energy demands of cold weather.
Me Too
Get your thyroid checked. Last year I had the exact same symptoms. TSH tested at about 5.00 which used to be marked "normal" but is now considered marginal (thyroid still functioning, but at a sub-optimal level). Went on low dose thyroid replacement. The falling asleep thing and gastro ill-mannerisms went away almost immediately. I could name a dozen other folks with the same issue (mom, great-uncle, friends). It's very common, probably related to changes in the hormonal system as we age. Likely comes on more noticeably during winter because of the higher energy demands of cold weather.