Patriot Health Digest
If you experience low energy, don’t pick up a candy bar or drink a cup of coffee for a lift. The caffeine might help you short term, but that will wear off fast and you will crash and be even more fatigued
What you need is a lasting solution to fight sluggishness. These 8 tips with do just that, and they’ll do it in under 10 minutes.
1. Don’t skip breakfast. People who never skip breakfast have less fatigue than people who do skip it. Eat high-fiber foods, such as oatmeal. These foods stay with you longer than things like cinnamon rolls or cereal. And as the day goes on, they will keep you from getting hungry and will keep your energy up while they’re at it.
2. Downward dog. Studies have found that yoga, which utilizes various deep breathing and postures for exercise and fitness, can be a great fatigue reducer. Try it every morning for an all day energy boost.
3. Water. Dehydration can cause fatigue. You don’t have to follow the exact “eight glasses” rule, but you should drink enough to keep yourself hydrated. You can tell you are well hydrated when you don’t feel thirsty and your urine is of a light color. Try to refill every few hours.
4. Nuts. Eat a handful of peanuts or almonds, which are high in folate and magnesium. These nutrients are vital for cell health and energy. A lack of them can cause you to feel very lethargic.
5. Cinnamon sticks. Some claim just the scent of this spice can stop fatigue and make them feel more energetic. If you don’t have cinnamon, grab a mint. Peppermint’s aroma is another fatigue reducer for some folks. Although more research is needed to determine the truth, these scents are said to boost energy instantly.
6. Move. Exercise is an energy booster like none other, because it allows oxygen-rich blood to surge through your body to your brain. Get a workout first them in the morning — even if you can only do a quick 10 minutes — this will help your energy levels stay at their peak. Move around at every opportunity you get, even if that means just walking in circles while talking on your cell.
7. Sunlight. A few minutes of walking outside during a warm clear day might enhance mood and memory. It can also improve your self-esteem. We wouldn’t be surprised if eventually it was discovered that sunlight exposure alone is a big energy booster.
8. Food. When your blood sugar goes down, your mind will start going on fumes and you will feel fuzzy. Eating a snack will reverse this and give you the energy to take you through the rest of your day. Snacks that are best will combine protein with slow-acting carbs — like banana slices with a spread of peanut butter — these are great for maintaining your blood sugar levels over the day.
