5 Natural Energy Boosters
Having trouble staying awake during the day? Can’t seem to shake off the sleepy day blues even after a good night’s sleep? Try some of these effective, natural energy boosters to fight off fatigue throughout the day.
Whether it’s early in the morning to get our days started or it’s half way through the day and we are feeling that mid-day slump, we often are looking for ways to boost our energy. Most people turn to coffee during this desperate time of need. If your morning routine involves coffee or you find yourself getting tired throughout the day, then these natural energy boosters may be just the thing you need!
Did you know that there are natural energy boosters out there that give you even more energy than a tall iced coffee with a shot of espresso? It’s true! Below are some natural foods, drinks, and things you can do, that can help get you through early morning, long days and help you stay up a little longer at night.
1. Exercise
Regular exercise can help to fight fatigue and increase energy levels. Exercising helps to enhance blood flow in the body, carrying oxygen and nutrients to muscle tissue. This helps your body produce more energy. By regularly doing low-intensity workouts you can significantly increase energy levels. Adults who are not accustomed to working out regularly should work out for at least 20-30 minutes, three to four times a week. Simply taking a brisk walk in the morning or a bike ride after dinner is enough to get your body moving. For adults who engage in more rigorous exercise, a combination of strength, balance, stability, and cardio training will get you the best results and benefits that exercise has to offer. Consult with your physician about what type of exercise program is best for you.
2. Kiwis
Kiwis are full of nutrients and vitamins. One kiwi has twice the vitamin C of an orange and twice the potassium of a banana! This immune boosting fruit is also filled with fiber. With about 2.5 grams of fiber, this super fruit helps to control blood sugar preventing you from experiencing energy lows when you are hungry. A kiwi packs an energy punch as you digest its simple sugars as well as keeps you going and satisfied due to its fiber. Eating two to three kiwis a day can give you the energy that you need to keep going throughout the day.
3. Apples
Apples are easy to carry, energy boosting snacks. Loaded with vitamin C, fiber and antioxidants, it is a great way to get a boost of energy. Eating an apple gives you more energy than a cup of coffee. I know what you’re thinking, not possible. But it’s true! While coffee may give you a quick burst of energy it eventually makes you crash, causing you to need another cup of coffee. An apple gives you the nutrients and fiber necessary to increase your energy level while keeping you satisfied and energized over a longer period of time. Pack an apple in your bag today and forget about that afternoon coffee.
4. Water
When you are feeling tired you don’t always think about how much water you’ve had to drink that day. Dehydration can lead you to feeling fatigued without you even realizing it. When you first start to hit the wall and are feeling drained, drink a glass of water. Keeping your body hydrated is important. You don’t need to drink a gallon of water a day, but you should always drink a sufficient amount of water. How do you know if your body is dehydrated? If you are thirsty then you need water. You should never feel thirsty, this is a sure sign of dehydration. If your urine is yellow, you desperately need more water! You should always aim to have your urine be light colored or clear. Next time you’re feeling low, forget that cup of jo and grab a nice refreshing glass of water.
5. Almonds and Walnuts
Who doesn’t love a good salty snack? Trying to find an alternative to chips can be difficult when you are craving something salty. Almonds and walnuts make a delicious, satisfying, energy boosting salty snack. These nuts are full of good fats, fiber, omega-3s and vitamin E. They will keep you fuller longer, give you energy and satisfy that salty, savory craving you can’t seem to fight off.
“The higher your energy level, the more efficient your body. The more efficient your body, the better you feel and the more you will use your talent to produce outstanding results.” ~Toni Robbins