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Trying to juggle work, school, and family has taken its toll on everyone, and by the end of the day, most people are physically and emotionally zapped. Unfortunately, leading a hectic life has become a natural part of life, thus, many people cannot afford to be tired. Of course, boosting our energy level is easier said than done. Some people are naturally energetic. No matter the time of day or night, they have an energy high that justifies envying. Fortunately, there are ways to boost our energy levels, which does not involve overindulgence of Red Bull or Mountain Dew. Quite the contrary, our diets may actually contribute to low energy levels. Here are a few tips to help you fight fatigue and boost your energy.
Increase Iron Intake – Often times, low energy levels are the direct result of a low blood count, or insufficient iron intake. In most cases, low blood counts are easily detected through simple blood tests. Menstrual cycles also contribute to low iron. Persons who suffer from iron-deficiency anemia, and experience regular bouts of fatigue should begin taking iron supplements. Iron helps increase the number of red blood cells and oxygen that travels through the body, which in turn creates a boost of energy.
Avoid Sugary and Caffeinated Foods – It is a known fact that certain foods and drinks can cause the energy level to drop. Initially, sugary foods such as chocolate, and drinks high in caffeine such as coffee and sodas create a quick energy high. Unfortunately, this energy boost is temporary. Once the surge of energy wears, persons consuming large consumptions of these foods will experience a sudden drop in energy.
Sustaining Energy All Day Long
A balanced diet and a proper lifestyle are essential to keep the physical and emotional self energetic throughout the day. Here are tips to sustain energy levels naturally all day long.
• Have plenty of fiber-rich food like greens, salads, whole grain products, vegetables and fruits. They digest slowly and serve as a constant reservoir of energy for long durations. They are unlike caffeine and sugar-rich processed foods which give a quick high and drain you of energy rapidly.
• In some people, spreading the total food intake over multiple (4 to 6) small meals and snacks throughout the day helps to sustain energy longer.
• Dry fruits like raisin, figs and dates are natural energy boosters. So are nuts like almonds, pecans, walnuts, cashews and pistachios. Have a handful of dry fruits and nuts for an afternoon snack to get a natural energy boost.
• Make sure your diet has enough proteins and a proper balance of fats and carbohydrates. Imbalances in diet lead to digestive problems which can make you sluggish and lethargic during the day. Excess carbohydrates can also cause a quick high followed by a quick depletion of energy levels.
• Avoid over-eating. A big load of food in the tummy drains a lot of energy for digestion leaving you listless and sleepy.
• Drink plenty of water to keep the body hydrated and to help it flush out wastes from the system. With 3-4 liters of water every day, you will see remarkably higher energy levels in your body.
• Another natural way to sustain energy during the day is to have a good night's sleep. Sleep rejuvenates the body and relaxes the mind. Poor sleep patterns disturb both the physical and mental faculties.
• Tiredness in the body has a lot to do with disturbances and stresses in the mind. Long and deep breaths for 5-10 minutes periodically during the day will calm the mind and energize the body.
• Exposure to fresh air and sunlight at least for half an hour a day helps sustain energy naturally. While sunlight helps the body to make essential substances like Vitamin D naturally, outdoors and nature are also mentally rejuvenating.