With our hectic schedules including work, school, sports, and social obligations, we often rely on caffeinated drinks to keep us going. Caffeine can give you a much-needed jolt, but at what cost? Energy drinks and coffee can also cause headaches, breakouts, and mood swings, high blood pressure, heart palpitations, just to name a few negative side effects. Then when you add in the calories from the cream and/or sugar, you have an energy boost that is heavy in calories. There are better, healthier ways to get energy without all the side effects.
Here are a few natural ways to get a boost of energy without risking the side effects which may affect your health.
DRINK PLENTY OF WATER.
Our body is approximately 70% water! A well hydrated body allows for proper metabolism and internal functions among a host of other benefits! Carbohydrates (body's main fuel source) and proteins are metabolized and transported by water through the bloodstream. By consuming enough water throughout the day, your body will run more efficiently and allow for energy production.
HAVE A HIGH PROTEIN SNACK.
This is a simple but effective way to keep yourself going throughout the day. Apple slices with natural peanut butter, turkey roll-ups with string cheese, or almonds and dried fruit are very effective. If you're crunched for time, pick up a smoothie with a protein boost or mix up a protein shake and throw a banana or berries in it. Protein causes your metabolism to be elevated which in turn provides stimulation of the nervous system which will pick you up and burn calories as well!
CHECK YOUR B VITAMIN LEVELS.
Vitamin B deficiency has been linked to low energy levels, among other things. In fact, mood changes, poor concentration, anxiety, and depression can all be signs of a vitamin B deficiency. So if you're feeling tired regularly, try a B-complex vitamin. Another option is to take a multivitamin, which will help ensure that you're not deficient in other minerals or nutrients. For the best results, take your multivitamin during a meal—preferably breakfast. The nutrients are better absorbed when mixed with the healthy fat in your food. In fact, when I became a vegetarian and was still figuring out my nutrient needs, I became anemic... One of the first things my physician told me to do was take B complex vitamins!
GRAB A QUICK - FAST PACED WORKOUT.
A quick fifteen - twenty minute cardio based workout will pick up your energy levels. I know the last thing you feel like doing is working out when you feel tired. Trust me, it works. If you're at work, take a fifteen minute break and run the stairs or go for a brisk walk. You'll be amazed how much more alert you will be.
TAKE A COLD SHOWER.
Cold water stimulates your system and speeds up circulation, resulting in alertness. Don't want to want to shock your body and jump in a cold shower? Try taking a regular shower, then cooling it down for the last few minutes. Not feeling the cold shower thing? For a quick burst of natural energy, splash cold water on your face for a few minutes.
EAT 4-6 SMALL MEALS EACH DAY.
When I say eat 4-6 meals, I don't mean over eat! Basically, take your breakfast and eat half in the morning during your regular breakfast time, eat the second half 3-4 hours later. This will minimize the mid-morning slump. Then, consume half your lunch at your lunch break and finish the second half mid-afternoon. Again, this will help minimize the slump we hit around 2 in the afternoon. Finally have a modest dinner. This will allow your digestive system to more efficiently digest the nutrients instead of "bogging it down". It also supplies a constant stream of energy dense calories. Try to avoid foods high in sugars and caffeine as this will cause a burst of energy initially but then cause your energy levels to plummet. Complex carbs such as oatmeal and grains are more effective for long term energy.