Six Ways to Increase Your Energy

Many people rely on caffeine, energy drinks, and other supplements to boost their energy. Adding unnecessary chemicals to our bodies regularly may cause health problems in the long run. Fortunately, there are things you can do to increase your energy naturally.

1. Eat for energy

Eating small meals and snacks every few hours helps provide a steady supply of energy throughout the day. Making sure the brain gets enough nutrients helps reduce fatigue.

Choose foods with low glycemic index like whole grains, fruits, vegetables, nuts, and healthy oils to avoid energy crashes that may occur when consuming foods with high glycemic index.

2. Drink lots of water

Your body is made up of 65 percent water. You need to stay properly hydrated so your organs and vital systems can function properly. Dehydration slows down various bodily systems, causing you to feel tired, sluggish, and irritable.

Average healthy adults should drink 8 to 9 cups of water every day, according to the Mayo Clinic. Intake should be increased accordingly if you’re exercising, pregnant, breastfeeding, or perspiring excessively because of the warm climate.

3. Get better sleep

You need enough sleep for your nervous system to function properly. Lack of sleep causes drowsiness, difficulty in concentration, memory impairment, and fatigue. The average adult requires about 7 to 8 hours of sleep every night.

The time we fall asleep is also important. Sleeping from 2 AM to 10 AM is not effective as sleeping from 10 PM to 6 AM. This is because our body follows a 24-hour cycle linked to natural light exposure. Processes like hormone secretion, body temperature, and digestion depend on this cycle. The later we sleep and wake up, the more out-of-sync our cycle becomes.

4. Exercise regularly

Exercise encourages sound sleep. It helps provide energy and improves blood circulation. Exercising releases epinephrine and norepinephrine, hormones that can make you feel energized. You don’t have to do too much either, even a brisk walk around the block can do wonders.

5. De-stress

Dealing with too much stress requires huge amounts of energy. Find ways to relax by taking vacations, reading a good book, meditation, and yoga. Stay in touch with relatives and friends, join a support group, or talk to a therapist to help diffuse stress.

6. Keep things light

Overworking is one of the major causes of fatigue. Your professional, social, and family obligations can take its toll on your physical and mental health. Keep your priorities straight and concentrate on the important tasks first. Don’t do everything alone; consider asking for extra help at work.

Source: VISTA Health Solutions