Boost energy levels -
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August 30, Surprising ways to get more energy including stress relief and healthy eating Go to the store, and you'll see a multitude of vitamins, herbs, and other supplements touted as energy boosters. Here are nine tips: 1. Control stress Stress-induced emotions consume huge amounts of energy.
Lighten your load One of the main reasons for fatigue is overwork. Exercise Exercise almost guarantees that you'll sleep more soundly. Avoid smoking You know smoking threatens your health. Restrict your sleep If you think you may be sleep-deprived, try getting less sleep.
Here's how to do it: Avoid napping during the day. The first night, go to bed later than normal and get just four hours of sleep.
If you feel that you slept well during that four-hour period, add another 15—30 minutes of sleep the next night. As long as you're sleeping soundly the entire time you're in bed, slowly keep adding sleep on successive nights.
Eat for energy Eating foods with a low glycemic index — whose sugars are absorbed slowly — may help you avoid the lag in energy that typically occurs after eating quickly absorbed sugars or refined starches. Use caffeine to your advantage Caffeine does help increase alertness, so having a cup of coffee can help sharpen your mind.
Limit alcohol One of the best hedges against the midafternoon slump is to avoid drinking alcohol at lunch. Drink water What's the only nutrient that has been shown to enhance performance for all but the most demanding endurance activities?
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Plus, get a FREE copy of the Best Diets for Cognitive Fitness. Doing so can help improve alertness and performance while lowering your stress levels, says Conor Heneghan, director of research and algorithms at Fitbit whose team analyzes the sleep data logged by more than nine billion users.
The timing of your nap matters, too. It may sound like the most unpleasant thing to do when you first wake up, but Nikola Djordjevic , MD, says showering in cold water is an easy way to get more energy quickly.
Those chilly temps can even strengthen your immune system in the long run, he adds. Take a whiff of stimulating oils like eucalyptus, peppermint, and cinnamon to help relieve fatigue and potentially boost brain function, alertness, and memory, she continues.
Crunchy foods are ideal afternoon snacks for helping you stay more alert, says Michele Sidorenkov , registered dietitian nutritionist. Another smart idea: incorporating citrus. Fun fact: The average child laughs times a day, according to Psychology Today.
A measly four. And another study found that a workout like that can increase energy by 20 percent. Sure, it may not be a super direct connection, but honestly—are you going to say no to a good chuckle?
This particular breathing style focuses on a forceful exhale and passive inhale, and its rapid, rhythmic practice helps boost blood flow and circulation for energy when you need it most, says Naz Beheshti , executive wellness coach and CEO of Prananaz.
To try it, start in a comfortable upright seated position, resting your hands on your lower belly or knees, palms facing down. Repeat 10 times. Start slow and gradually increase the pace and number of cycles.
Side note: Stop if you feel dizzy or faint, and refrain if you're pregnant or have your period. It's also best to talk with a doctor before doing this if you have preexisting medical conditions, like hypertension or heart problems. Stepping into the elevator is easier, yes, but research shows that 10 minutes of stair walking can be more effective in waking you up than 50 mg of caffeine the equivalent of about 1.
More research suggests that an afternoon walk can wake you up, too. Instead of that afternoon coffee, take the stairs out of the office, walk around the block, and climb back up for a quickie energy boost.
Taking the time to stretch increases blood circulation and promotes the release of hormones and neurotransmitters that provide an energy boost, says Thanu Jey, chiropractor and clinic director at Yorkville Sports Medicine Clinic in Toronto.
He suggests standing and reaching for your toes, a quad stretch , or a figure 4 stretch , as all of these target bigger muscle groups and help get your blood moving. If you hate working out, think back to the activities you did as a kid that made movement fun. Maybe it was cranking the music and dancing around the room, or chasing your dog around the house.
So take your kids to the playground, bust out a game of charades with friends, or sign up for a local sports league. Research backs her up: A review of 16 studies concluded acupuncture could be effective in treating chronic fatigue—even more so than herbs or stimulants.
More research showed that a treatment helps the brain transition into an alpha and theta state—and out of a beta, or stressed, state—which helps the body heal and restore itself naturally. When you meal prep for the week , consider including fish that are rich in omega-3 healthy fats two to three times a week, suggests Shahzadi Devje , registered dietitian.
Opt for certified wild and sustainable seafood options, as Devje says they're usually healthier for you and more eco-friendly.
Other high-fiber fruits?
What makes you feel low in energy? Eneergy factors influence your energy levels, lsvels some lifestyle factors have llevels greatest Boost energy levels. The good news is that you can Boost energy levels your energy levels, and we have some great tips backed by science. Research shows that genetics only play a small role in affecting energy levels, and at ZOEwe found that one of the largest influences may be your diet. Our scientists have found that low energy often occurs as a result of what you eat.Boost energy levels -
As a study in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry notes, strawberries are a good source of minerals, vitamin C, and folates. They also contain phenols, which are essential antioxidants that may help the body create energy at the cellular level.
People can add strawberries to many dishes, and a handful may also be an easy snack to add to a diet. Most people enjoy oranges for their taste, which comes from the antioxidant vitamin C.
Vitamin C may help reduce oxidative stress in the body and prevent fatigue. A study in the journal Antioxidants notes that young adult male students who have higher levels of vitamin C may also have better mood and may be less likely to experience confusion, anger, or depression. Berries, including blueberries , raspberries, and blackberries, may be a good energy boosting food when the body is craving something sweet.
Dark berries tend to be higher in natural antioxidants than lighter-colored ones, which may reduce inflammation and fatigue in the body. They also tend to have less sugar than sweeter fruits, while still satisfying a craving for a sweet taste.
Fish, in general, is an excellent and light source of protein and B vitamins that may give the body sustained energy throughout the day.
Fatty cold-water fish, such as salmon, sardines, and tuna, tend to be higher in omega-3 fatty acids. As a study in the journal Nutrients notes, omega-3 fatty acids may improve brain function and reduce inflammation in the body, which may be a cause of fatigue in some people.
Beef liver may be one of the best meat sources for vitamin B, which keeps the body feeling full of energy. While many cuts of meat contain vitamin B, the difference is that beef liver has a large amount.
According to the United States Department of Agriculture USDA , a 3-ounce cut of beef flank steak contains about 1. The same cut of beef liver contains 60 mcg of vitamin B, according to the USDA.
Yogurt may also be a source of energy. As the USDA show, natural yogurt is rich in protein, fats, and simple carbohydrates, which provide energy to the body.
Yogurt is also very easy to eat on the go, which makes it a great alternative to vending machine food. Eggs provide the body with plenty of protein and nutrients for sustainable energy.
As the USDA note, one large hard-boiled egg contains about 6 grams g of protein and 5 g of fat , as well as vitamins and minerals to help keep the body energized and feeling full for longer than other snacks.
Yams and sweet potatoes are beneficial sources of carbohydrates, which provide energy. This may make them a good option for sustained energy throughout the day. As a study in the journal Food Science and Biotechnology notes, beets may provide the body with a great source of antioxidants and nutrients that help improve blood flow and energy.
People can consume beets as dried beetroot chips, cooked beets or as a bottle of beetroot juice. Dark, leafy greens such as kale , spinach, and collard greens are nutrient dense and contain filling proteins, as well as nutrients and antioxidants.
Greens may be difficult to digest raw for some people, so breaking them down by cooking them with a bit of vinegar or lemon juice may help. Dark chocolate may be an easy way to increase energy.
Rich, dark chocolate usually has much less sugar than milk chocolate. Less sugar means less immediate energy, but more cocoa content means more of the benefits of cocoa, including helpful antioxidants such as flavonoids. A study in the journal Archives of the Turkish Society of Cardiology notes that dark chocolate may benefit the cardiovascular system by helping more blood pump around the body.
This blood carries fresh oxygen, which may also make a person feel more awake and alert. A bowl of whole-grain oatmeal may be a great way to provide the body with energy. Oats are rich in fiber, and they may enable the body to feel fuller for longer than other breakfast choices.
As a study in The Journal of Nutrition notes, whole-grain oats are also a source of essential minerals, vitamins, and phenolic compounds, all of which may help energize the body. Popcorn is rich in carbohydrates. However, it also contains fiber to help slow the digestion. Popcorn may make a person feel full for longer than other carbohydrates.
As a study in Nutrition Journal notes, people who ate popcorn rather than potato chips felt fuller from the snack. This may be helpful for dieters, as popcorn usually contains fewer calories than potato chips. Quinoa is a seed, but most people treat it as a grain.
Quinoa is high in protein, carbohydrates, and fiber. The combination of amino acids and slow-release carbohydrates may make for sustainable energy rather than a short burst of glucose from other grains. One of the benefits of brown rice may be that it retains much of the fiber from the husk.
The husk is not there in white rice, which may cause the body to absorb the carbohydrate content quickly. This may lead to a spike and then a crash in energy levels. Yoga breathing techniques, called pranayama, can affect your mind and increase energy.
Research has found that fast and forceful exhales improve reaction time. At the same time, slow and mindful breathing alleviates anxiety. Try a fast breathing technique known as " kapalabhati," or the breath of fire:.
When possible, try waking up and going to bed at the same time each day. Humans are creatures of habit, so a routine can help keep your energy up during the day and wind down at bedtime. Routines have been shown to increase energy and support efficiency when completing tasks.
Here are other habits to add to your routine to help maximize your energy:. It might be time to take a small break if you have lost your focus staring at a computer.
Try getting up and walking around to boost your energy if you spend most of your day sitting. Research has shown that short periods of moderate-intensity exercise throughout the day can improve your mood and decrease fatigue without negatively affecting work performance.
Here are some ways to incorporate more exercise into your day:. A short massage could aid brain function. A study published in found that 20 minutes of brain massage significantly decreased mental fatigue.
The researchers also noted increases in attention and memory. Try applying pressure to the "kiss point," or GV in acupressure:. Vitamin D, which comes from sunlight, is an essential vitamin that supports strong bones.
Low vitamin D levels can cause fatigue and weakness. Increasing your vitamin D intake helps reduce muscle fatigue and keeps your muscle cells healthy. You can increase your vitamin D intake by:. Talk to a healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting a supplement if you suspect you have a vitamin D deficiency.
The Food and Drug Administration minimally regulates supplements. The effects of supplements vary from person to person and depend on many variables, including type, dosage, frequency of use, and interactions with current medications. Stress can affect your health in many ways.
For example, long-term stress may cause difficulty sleeping and contribute to fatigue. You are also more likely to start work fatigued and become more tired during the day if you are stressed.
Relieving that stress can ease your fatigue and give you more energy. Here are a few ways you can reduce stress:. Reach out to a healthcare provider if you have severe stress symptoms for more than two weeks.
They can help you figure out how to cope with stress. Vitamin B12 helps keep your blood and nerve cells healthy.
Most adults need 2. A B12 deficiency can cause fatigue and weakness. You can try eating more Brich foods to boost energy.
Sources include:. People who eat a vegetarian or vegan diet might have trouble getting enough B Animal foods make up the most natural sources of the vitamin. Talk to a healthcare provider if you suspect you may be low on B They might recommend a supplement to help meet your intake goal.
Research has shown that naps of any length help improve cognitive function and how alert you feel. Still, experts only advise long naps i. Napping for long periods makes it hard to fall asleep at night. Here are some tips for napping:.
Some evidence suggests that musical activity helps boost energy levels. A study published in found that participants who actively made music through singing, keyboard playing, or rhythm tapping felt more energetic than others. In contrast, the researchers noted that listening to music or a story might decrease your energy.
The next time you listen to a song, try singing along to feel more awake. Your body responds to lightness and darkness as signals to be awake and to fall asleep. Your circadian rhythm —the physical, mental, and behavioral changes that follow a hour cycle—takes those light and dark signals so that your body knows when to rest and when to be awake.
Here are a few ways you can use sunlight to regulate your circadian rhythm:. Aromatherapy involves applying essential oils, such as those from flowers, herbs, or trees, to your skin or inhaling them.
A study published in found that a blend of clove bud, frankincense, orange, and thyme helped decrease fatigue in women with post-acute COVID, or long COVID. Other essential oils that you might try using include:.
There are many other ways to get energy without resorting to a cup of coffee if you are trying to cut back on your caffeine intake. However you decide to get more energy, there are plenty of alternatives to that cup of coffee.
For example, eat regularly throughout the day with lean proteins and fiber-rich carbohydrates since you get energy from food. You can also substitute caffeine with water to avoid dehydration and the fatigue that comes with it.
Try relieving stress with exercise or meditation. Chang AM, Aeschbach D, Duffy JF, et al. Evening use of light-emitting eReaders negatively affects sleep, circadian timing, and next-morning alertness.
Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. Pham HT, Chuang HL, Kuo CP, et al. Electronic device use before bedtime and sleep quality among university students.
Sometimes inflammation can become a painful problem. Your doctor can perform…. What is oxidative stress, and why does it matter?
We explain how this imbalance affects your body and ways to prevent it. A Quiz for Teens Are You a Workaholic? How Well Do You Sleep? Health Conditions Discover Plan Connect.
Nutrition Evidence Based 9 Natural Ways to Boost Your Energy Levels. Medically reviewed by Kim Rose-Francis RDN, CDCES, LD , Nutrition — By Rachael Ajmera, MS, RD and Helen West, RD — Updated on May 9, Get more sleep.
Reduce stress. Move more. If you smoke, consider quitting. Limit alcohol. Eat a nutritious diet. Limit added sugar. Stay hydrated. Connect with people. The bottom line. Was this helpful? How we reviewed this article: History. May 9, Written By Rachael Ajmera, MS, RD, Helen West. Nov 25, Medically Reviewed By Kimberley Rose-Francis RDN, CDCES, CNSC, LD.
Share this article. Evidence Based This article is based on scientific evidence, written by experts and fact checked by experts. More in Understanding Inflammation and Aging Your 5-Minute Read on Inflamm-aging and How to Prevent It.
Oxidative Stress: Your FAQs Answered. Your 5-Minute Read on Fighting Brain Fog. What Is Carbon 60 C60? Your FAQs Answered. Is Carbon 60 C60 Good for You? Read this next. READ MORE. Understanding and Managing Chronic Inflammation. Medically reviewed by Stella Bard, MD.
Inflammation: What You Need to Know Inflammation is one way your body fights infection, injury, and disease. Your doctor can perform… READ MORE. Everything You Should Know About Oxidative Stress.
Medically reviewed by Timothy J.
Back Athletic fuel choices Sleep Boost energy levels tiredness. Blost cases of tiredness are due energyy stress, not enough sleep, poor diet and other lifestyle factors. Try these self-help tips to restore your energy levels. If you feel you're suffering from fatigue, which is an overwhelming tiredness that isn't relieved by rest and sleep, you may have an underlying medical condition. Consult a GP for advice.
Our editors Boost energy levels the products Boost energy levels we feature. We may earn commission from the links on enfrgy page. But endrgy than head straight to the espresso machine, there are ways to get more energy, fast. Here are a few tried-and-true methods to boost your energy without coffee, whether you're about to work out or just facing an afternoon slump at work. Daily fatigue Dental financing options a Nutritional supplement for hair health problem that can affect productivity and mood, and ultimately lead to Personalized fitness program like burnout.
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One of the main effects â among others â of levvels is a lack of energy. In cases of Mild Dehydrationsymptoms of dehydration often go unnoticed.
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 While It Is A Myth That Caffeine Has Any Significant Diuretics Or Dehydrating Properties, cutting back on it over time can help regulate your energy levels. Caffeine can come from a variety of places, including:. Ingesting too much of any of these foods in one day can cause energy spikes and crashes, which can increase daytime sleepiness.
A healthy diet has several benefits, including more consistent energy. Certain Foods Can Boost Your Mood, Health, And Energywhile Others Can Make You Feel Fatigued. Eating highly nutritious meals daily helps improve your overall health, boost your immune system, and improve digestion.
All of these factors have an impact on your energy levels throughout the day. Certain foods help boost your energy, more than others.
These include:. Being properly hydrated alongside eating well is a healthy habit to get into when looking to boost your overall energy levels. As mentioned, certain foods can be problematic âboth for digestion and energy.
Foods such as Those High In Sugar Can Cause A Crash In Energy Levelsand incredibly heavy foods that take a long time to digest can make you feel fatigued. Additionally, Food Sensitivities Can Contribute To Fatigueand cause discomfort that may affect your mood.
You can do an Elimination Diet to test for sensitivities, or visit an allergist. Alcohol Is A Depressant And Affects Sleep Quality and overall energy levels. Alcohol may make you feel drowsy or irritable â both during and after consumption.
Increased alcohol intake can also make you dehydrated, additionally contributing to unwanted side effects. Drinking in moderation can help you avoid unwanted side effects of alcohol, including fatigue.
The Centers for Disease Control Prevention CDC define Moderate Drinking As Two Or Fewer Drinks In A Day. Additionally, the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism NIAA defines Heavy Drinking As More Than 14 Drinks Per Week. Limiting your drinking can help you avoid the Negative Long-Term Effects Caused By Alcohol Useas well as help improve your energy levels.
There are several benefits of exercise for general health and wellness, including weight management, Mood Regulationand Mobility. Â However, regular physical activity can also increase energy levels over time, Especially When It Comes To Work-Related Fatigue. Mayo Clinic recommends that you should be getting in At Least 30 Minutes Of Moderate Exercise Every Day.
This could be:. Depending on your fitness goals and ability, you may need more or less heavy exercise. Exercise is a great tool for stress relief, which also helps improve fatigue. Stress can cause feelings of tiredness, particularly when it comes to work.
 This Stress Can Sometimes Be Subconsciousand hard to identify. Practicing stress relief daily is important for both your mental and physical health. Easy, at-home stress relieving techniques include:.
Check in with yourself â this is the fastest way to get the most out of self-care. These tools can help you reduce daily fatigue, and improve your overall quality of life. If none of these tips work for you, talk to your doctor about underlying medical conditions that could be causing prolonged fatigue.
: Boost energy levels| 16 Natural Ways to Boost Your Energy Fast | Yoga breathing techniques, called pranayama, can affect your mind and increase energy. Research has found that fast and forceful exhales improve reaction time. At the same time, slow and mindful breathing alleviates anxiety. Try a fast breathing technique known as " kapalabhati," or the breath of fire:. When possible, try waking up and going to bed at the same time each day. Humans are creatures of habit, so a routine can help keep your energy up during the day and wind down at bedtime. Routines have been shown to increase energy and support efficiency when completing tasks. Here are other habits to add to your routine to help maximize your energy:. It might be time to take a small break if you have lost your focus staring at a computer. Try getting up and walking around to boost your energy if you spend most of your day sitting. Research has shown that short periods of moderate-intensity exercise throughout the day can improve your mood and decrease fatigue without negatively affecting work performance. Here are some ways to incorporate more exercise into your day:. A short massage could aid brain function. A study published in found that 20 minutes of brain massage significantly decreased mental fatigue. The researchers also noted increases in attention and memory. Try applying pressure to the "kiss point," or GV in acupressure:. Vitamin D, which comes from sunlight, is an essential vitamin that supports strong bones. Low vitamin D levels can cause fatigue and weakness. Increasing your vitamin D intake helps reduce muscle fatigue and keeps your muscle cells healthy. You can increase your vitamin D intake by:. Talk to a healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting a supplement if you suspect you have a vitamin D deficiency. The Food and Drug Administration minimally regulates supplements. The effects of supplements vary from person to person and depend on many variables, including type, dosage, frequency of use, and interactions with current medications. Stress can affect your health in many ways. For example, long-term stress may cause difficulty sleeping and contribute to fatigue. You are also more likely to start work fatigued and become more tired during the day if you are stressed. Relieving that stress can ease your fatigue and give you more energy. Here are a few ways you can reduce stress:. Reach out to a healthcare provider if you have severe stress symptoms for more than two weeks. They can help you figure out how to cope with stress. Vitamin B12 helps keep your blood and nerve cells healthy. Most adults need 2. A B12 deficiency can cause fatigue and weakness. You can try eating more Brich foods to boost energy. Sources include:. People who eat a vegetarian or vegan diet might have trouble getting enough B Animal foods make up the most natural sources of the vitamin. Talk to a healthcare provider if you suspect you may be low on B They might recommend a supplement to help meet your intake goal. Research has shown that naps of any length help improve cognitive function and how alert you feel. Still, experts only advise long naps i. Napping for long periods makes it hard to fall asleep at night. Here are some tips for napping:. Some evidence suggests that musical activity helps boost energy levels. A study published in found that participants who actively made music through singing, keyboard playing, or rhythm tapping felt more energetic than others. In contrast, the researchers noted that listening to music or a story might decrease your energy. The next time you listen to a song, try singing along to feel more awake. Your body responds to lightness and darkness as signals to be awake and to fall asleep. Your circadian rhythm —the physical, mental, and behavioral changes that follow a hour cycle—takes those light and dark signals so that your body knows when to rest and when to be awake. Here are a few ways you can use sunlight to regulate your circadian rhythm:. Aromatherapy involves applying essential oils, such as those from flowers, herbs, or trees, to your skin or inhaling them. A study published in found that a blend of clove bud, frankincense, orange, and thyme helped decrease fatigue in women with post-acute COVID, or long COVID. Other essential oils that you might try using include:. There are many other ways to get energy without resorting to a cup of coffee if you are trying to cut back on your caffeine intake. However you decide to get more energy, there are plenty of alternatives to that cup of coffee. For example, eat regularly throughout the day with lean proteins and fiber-rich carbohydrates since you get energy from food. You can also substitute caffeine with water to avoid dehydration and the fatigue that comes with it. Try relieving stress with exercise or meditation. Chang AM, Aeschbach D, Duffy JF, et al. Evening use of light-emitting eReaders negatively affects sleep, circadian timing, and next-morning alertness. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. Pham HT, Chuang HL, Kuo CP, et al. Electronic device use before bedtime and sleep quality among university students. Matthew Solan , Executive Editor, Harvard Men's Health Watch. As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles. No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician. Thanks for visiting. Don't miss your FREE gift. The Best Diets for Cognitive Fitness , is yours absolutely FREE when you sign up to receive Health Alerts from Harvard Medical School. Sign up to get tips for living a healthy lifestyle, with ways to fight inflammation and improve cognitive health , plus the latest advances in preventative medicine, diet and exercise , pain relief, blood pressure and cholesterol management, and more. Get helpful tips and guidance for everything from fighting inflammation to finding the best diets for weight loss from exercises to build a stronger core to advice on treating cataracts. PLUS, the latest news on medical advances and breakthroughs from Harvard Medical School experts. Sign up now and get a FREE copy of the Best Diets for Cognitive Fitness. Stay on top of latest health news from Harvard Medical School. Recent Blog Articles. Flowers, chocolates, organ donation — are you in? What is a tongue-tie? What parents need to know. Which migraine medications are most helpful? How well do you score on brain health? Shining light on night blindness. Can watching sports be bad for your health? Quitting smoking is great for both your energy levels and your overall health. Drinking alcohol can have a sedative effect and may make you feel drowsy and relaxed However, regularly drinking alcohol before bed can reduce the quality of your sleep 20 , Alcohol can also act as a diuretic, meaning that it increases the production of urine. Therefore, if you have a few drinks right before bed, it could interrupt your sleep by causing you to wake up in the middle of the night The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention CDC defines moderation as one drink per day for women and two per day for men If you have a hard time limiting your intake of alcohol or would like additional support, consider reaching out to a healthcare professional for more guidance. This article also provides detailed tips and resources. Alcohol can make you feel drowsy, but it can also interfere with the quality of your sleep. If you drink regularly, limiting the amount of alcohol you consume could help increase your energy levels. Following a well-rounded diet can not only reduce your risk of several chronic conditions but also significantly affect your energy levels 24 , Choosing whole, nutritious foods can provide your body with the vitamins and minerals it needs to function at its best. On the other hand, eating lots of processed foods that are high in sugar and fat can negatively affect both your energy levels and your overall health 26 , Additionally, some studies show that skipping meals may be linked to fatigue, anxiety, and poor attention 28 , 29 , This is because severe dietary restrictions can result in a lack of both calories and essential nutrients, such as iron, which could take a toll on your energy levels 31 , Following a healthy diet can benefit both your health and your energy levels. When you feel tired, it can be easy to reach for a sweet, sugar-filled snack. However, although sugar can give you a short-term energy boost, it also wears off very quickly and can leave you feeling more tired than before. This is because high sugar foods cause a sharp spike in blood sugar levels, followed by a crash as the body releases a large amount of insulin to transport sugar from the bloodstream to the cells 33 , Eating large amounts of added sugar may also increase your risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease, so limiting your intake of added sugar can benefit both your energy levels and your health 36 , If you want to satisfy your sweet tooth while keeping your energy levels more stable and reducing fatigue, try trading foods high in added sugar for:. Eating foods high in sugar may lead to chronic diseases, including obesity, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease. Consider minimizing your intake and focusing on eating whole foods instead. Drinking enough water is incredibly important for several aspects of health. In particular, dehydration can have a huge effect on your brain function, mood, energy levels, and more 38 , For example, one small study found that acute dehydration significantly increased the perception of fatigue and impaired muscular performance in athletes As a general rule, try drinking water whenever you feel thirsty to ensure that you stay hydrated. Additionally, keep in mind that older adults may not always feel thirsty when they need water. As such, they may need to make a conscious effort to drink more throughout the day to stay hydrated Dehydration can make you feel tired. In fact, social isolation can cause low mood and tiredness, especially as you age Some research even indicates that having stronger social support could be associated with improvements in physical and mental health as you age 43 , 44 , 45 , If you feel tired and in low spirits, it can be helpful to try socializing with friends, joining a club or class, volunteering, or finding a new hobby that gets you out and about. Getting out of the house and mingling with other people is beneficial for both your energy levels and your health. Try organizing social activities with your friends, volunteering, or starting a new activity by joining a club or class. However, drinking enough water, following a balanced diet, getting enough sleep and exercise, and being sociable can benefit both your energy levels and your overall health. Reach out to a trusted healthcare professional for additional guidance and advice to help increase your energy levels. Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available. VIEW ALL HISTORY. |
| The 28 best energy-boosting foods and drinks | You could try 1 square with some almonds or nuts for a snack. There are a number of different vitamins and supplements that you can take to help boost your energy levels. Vitamin B 12 plays a huge role in energy production in the body. It can be found naturally in some animal proteins including meat, fish and dairy. Taking a supplement would be a great for you. You can get this in a number of formats including sublingual — under the tongue and is inexpensive. You can also get iron from beans, dark leafy greens, dried fruits natural and peas. CoQ10 — this is a powerful antioxidant that is found in every cell of your body and is need for energy production. Our body produces CoQ10 and we can also get it from our diet through certain meats, fish and peanuts. As we age, our ability to produce CoQ10 is decreased, so supplementing may be beneficial later in life. Magnesium and melatonin may help promote good sleep , which is essential for good health and for increasing energy levels. There are some combination supplements that you can buy that are formulated specifically for energy, sleep and stress. Although supplements may be beneficial in helping you stay alert and energized each day, they are not a substitute for what your body needs naturally — focus on getting adequate sleep, eating healthy foods, drinking lots of water and exercising daily. Focus on getting into a good sleep routine; get to bed at the same time each night and avoid screen time before bed. Keep your stress levels down and find healthy ways to manage them. Stress can make you feel tired and completely drained. Physical, emotional, and mental stress can all take a toll. Stay active — regular exercise can help boost your energy levels and improve your overall health. Keep focused on getting lots of water in each day. Yoga and mindfulness practices — this can help reduce stress, improve sleep and promote relaxation. Be social — get out and spend time with family and friends. This will boost your mood and enhance your overall wellbeing. Making a healthy lifestyle change can help improve your overall health and leave you feeling more energized and focused each day! Struggling With Fatigue? Sodas and energy drinks can be full of refined sugar and artificial ingredients that can cause you to crash, and lead to other health issues if overconsuming. Red meats marbled in fat adds saturated fat to your diet. Leaner meats, like chicken, turkey, and fish, still provide quality protein, but contain less saturated fat. Fish high in omega-3 fatty acids, like salmon and tuna, can add beneficial, heart healthy fats. Just like processed foods, refined carbohydrates like sugars and white flour add little nutrition. Choosing whole grain foods and complex carbohydrates ensures that your body gets the full benefits of the hull of the grain that adds fiber to your diet. Nuts and seeds are some of the best foods to beat fatigue and fight hunger. Getting a variety of nuts and seeds in your diet can provide healthy nutrients and energy. Try almonds, Brazil nuts, cashews, hazelnuts, pecans, walnuts, sunflower seeds, and pumpkin seeds. Eating raw, unsalted versions is recommended. Drinking water is essential for optimal functioning of the body. Sip on water throughout the day, and try to swap out sodas, coffee, and other drinks for a glass of water. Consulting with a nutritionist or homeopathic doctor could get you started on a nutritional supplement regimen. Researchers compared bananas to carbohydrate sports drinks in cyclists who needed sustained energy for their long rides. They found that the banana offered just as much fuel to the riders as the drink. Bananas, right? Turns out, bananas are packed with potassium, fiber, vitamins, and the perfect amount of carbohydrates that provide you with a big boost of natural energy. A big bowl of oats packs a punch of filling fiber and even a little protein. You can then have control of what you put in it such as milk, a little honey, and some mixed berries. Then you can be on your way with more energy to get you through the day. While you might not be training for an endurance exercise event, chia seeds may be an excellent source of prolonged energy thanks to carb content, healthy fats, and filling fiber. Two tablespoons of chia provide about 24 grams of carbs and a whopping 4. According to one small study that involved six endurance athletes, eating chia seeds offers just as much energy as carbohydrate sports drinks. For everyday purposes, sprinkling in a few tablespoons of chia seeds with your morning smoothie or adding a scoop to your afternoon yogurt may provide just enough of an energy boost for you to keep fatigue at bay. With regular exercise and good nutrition, you can maintain healthy levels of energy during depressive episodes. Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available. VIEW ALL HISTORY. What you eat can have a major effect on your energy levels. These 7 foods can all drain your energy. If you're wondering about energy-boosting foods, you're not alone. A short walk in the fresh air will help your concentration and allow you to feel more relaxed and alert. For more healthy eating tips, check out Canada's Food Guide! The University of Waterloo acknowledges that much of our work takes place on the traditional territory of the Neutral, Anishinaabeg and Haudenosaunee peoples. Our main campus is situated on the Haldimand Tract, the land granted to the Six Nations that includes six miles on each side of the Grand River. Our active work toward reconciliation takes place across our campuses through research, learning, teaching, and community building, and is co-ordinated within the Office of Indigenous Relations. Skip to main Skip to footer. Campus Wellness. Campus Wellness home About Campus Wellness COVID Vaccine Centre Health Services Student Medical Clinic Family Health Clinic Nutrition Services Nutrition articles FAQs Reliable nutrition and health websites Travel Clinic Campus Response Team Counselling Services Health Promotion Partnership with IMPACT News Events Wellness Topics and Information. Faculty and Staff Indigenous Student Resources Parents and Supporters Students. Campus Wellness Health Services Nutrition Services Nutrition articles. Eat breakfast After a 12 or 14 hour fast, your body needs food in order to function at its best. Try one of these 5-minute meal ideas, choosing whole grains whenever possible: Whole grain cereal, milk, OJ Bagel with peanut butter, banana Instant oatmeal with raisins and milk Toaster waffle with frozen berries, yogurt Bran muffin, piece of cheese, grapes High fibre cereal bar, chocolate milk, apple English muffin with cheese and tomato Re-fuel every hours Students who eat at regular intervals avoid energy slumps and the extreme hunger that can lead to binge eating. |
| 9 Natural Ways to Boost Your Energy Levels | You may not be able to overcome all aspects of age-related energy loss, but there are ways to help your body produce more ATP and replenish dwindling energy levels. Caffeine increases feelings of alertness. The foods you choose to eat have a definite impact on both your energy level and academic performance. About the Author. Sleep Restriction Enhances the Daily Rhythm of Circulating Levels of Endocannabinoid 2-Arachidonoylglycerol. In general, high-carbohydrate foods have the highest glycemic indexes. After a 12 or 14 hour fast, your body needs food in order to function at its best. |
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