What’s the first thing you do when you’re feeling dragged out and ready to stop and drop? Some people grab a candy bar and others grab a cup of coffee. You can get energy without coffee or sugar and the energy lasts even longer. Unlike both, you won’t come crashing down, create a dependency or interrupt sleep later. Caffeine affects the neurotransmitters, blocking ones that make you feel drowsy and boosting those that make you feel alert. However, there are better ways to give your body a boost that are more long-lasting and can even help you get a good night’s rest.
Try a piece of fruit.
Yes, fruit has sugar, which does help you feel more energetic, but it also has fiber. Fiber slows and helps regulate the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream. It gives you a constant flow of energy. Make that fruit colder and you have a treat that can really boost your energy level. Try freezing grapes and have a few as a snack as an energy boost. The fiber helps you feel full. Apple slices with a touch of peanut butter can also bring a more lasting boost of energy.
Don’t forget water.
Water is a natural boost to your energy, especially for those who are mildly dehydrated. The older you are, the more like that is to happen. Mild dehydration can bring on mind fog, cause exhaustion and even mimic the signs of dementia. If you don’t like plain water, try making infused water and keeping it on hand. You can infuse it with fresh fruit, herbs, spices or vegetables, to add flavor but few if any calories.
It has similar energy boosting effects to coffee, tea is a good alternative.
Tea, especially green tea, has similar effects to coffee, but doesn’t leave you feeling jittery. While scientists have discovered benefits in coffee, tea has even more, especially green tea. The more green tea you drink, the more benefits you get. There’s a direct correlation to the amount green tea consumed daily and longevity. Herbal teas, like ginger or peppermint tea can also boost your energy level.
- Just move! Get your blood circulating to increase your energy level. If you’ve ever driven long hours and found yourself moving around, trying to stay awake you know intuitively that moving helps boost energy levels.
- Eat some protein and fruit. A cup of Greek yogurt with berries, banana slices and nuts provide the carbs for instant energy and the protein and fat to keep your energy level higher, longer.
- Go out in the sun. Getting your daily dose of sunshine can boost your energy and your mood, especially if you take a walk in a park or where there’s lots of green. It increases energy, while providing relaxation. Walk barefoot on grass if you can.
- Sniff a whiff of essential oils or pack a lemon or orange peel in a plastic bag. Some scents can make you feel revitalized. Cinnamon, citrus and peppermint are good ones. Dab some oil on a cotton ball and seal it in a plastic bag. Open the bag and sniff when you need a boost.
For more information, contact us today at Next Level Fitness