Okay, your energy levels are going to go through some dips. Theyâll be times when you donât want to get out of bed or you just absolutely have to have a nap. If youâre able to do that and rest your body, great! But many times when we canât seem to muster energy to do anything, there just isnât an option to lie down for a power nap.
If youâve recently noticed that your energy levels are not what youâd like them to be, here are five tips that could help boost your energy levels naturally:
1. Coffee
Caffeine is still a great way to get a boost of energy when you need it. While not a great solution for chronic tiredness (that requires a proper amount of sleep), coffee does get the adrenalin system up and running when the rest of you may feel like sleeping. The trick is to save that cup of coffee for low energy âemergencies,â such as when you need to feel alert while driving. Itâs not wise to drink coffee all day long as a kind of energy crutch. Too much coffeeâmore than three cups a dayâcan have an adverse effect on your health.
2. Eat Those Fruits and Veggies
Fruits and veggies are good source of energy. Eat a salad with at least three different vegetables (Caesar salad is really just lettuce with lots of fattening dressing and croutons). Better yet, get some mixed greens, spinach, mushrooms, carrots, and broccoli into one salad. Youâll notice an improvement in your energy levels all afternoon.
3. Eat Whole Grains
Donât rely on breads and baked goods made with processed flours as your main source of carbohydrates. Itâs time to benefit from the energy-boosting power of brown rice, whole oats, whole wheat, rye, buckwheat, millet or quinoa. The extra nutrients (not to mention fiber) in whole grains will sustain your energy levels far longer than any carb made with processed wheat flour. For those going gluten-free, stay away from products made entirely from white rice flourâtheyâre a little better than processed white flour.
4. Drink Filtered or Spring Water
Water is one of the best natural energy boosters out there. The next time your energy is flagging, try this trick: drink a glass of filtered or spring water. Your energy levels should perk up right away. Remember to drink throughout the day. Dehydration is a silent but pervasive reason for fatigue.
5. Go for a Walk
Why would you go for a walk when youâre feeling tired? So much of modern day fatigue is caused by sitting long hours in front of the T.V., at the computer desk, or in the car. Eventually, the body and mind is lulled into a state of sleepiness. Give things a shake up and get outside in the fresh air.
Start walking and youâll be amazed at how quickly your fatigue starts to drain away. Donât carry anything heavy and wear comfortable clothing and shoes. You want to be able to relax, clear your mind, move your body, and let go of all the tension youâve been storing up in your body. Your mind will enjoy a brisk walk just as much as your body. Donât forget that your mind plays a role in how tired your body feels.
Sources:
Loney, H., â5 natural energy boosters to get you through the day,â Global News web site, Dec. 16, 2013; http://globalnews.ca/news/1030700/5-natural-energy-boosters-to-get-you-through-the-day/, last accessed Dec. 18, 2013.
Thomas, M., âNutrition tips to boost energy levels,â Canadian Living web site; http://www.canadianliving.com/health/nutrition/nutrition_tips_to_boost_energy_levels.php, last accessed Dec. 18, 2013.