Tired of feeling tired?
Do you rely on that morning coffee (or two) or afternoon sugary sweets to give you that extra boost to get you through the day? In the long term these quick fixes can leave you more feeling more exhausted.
In todays busy world it is easy to feel run down. Fatigue can manifest in the form of mood swings, lack of concentration, headaches and a feeling of exhaustion. Instead of using stimulants for a quick boost, you can fuel your body with the right nutrients so that we have sustained energy to get us through the whole day. Here are some tips that ways to boost your energy that are easy to incorporate into your daily routine.
Nourish your body with super foods
The most nutrient dense foods on earth! Due to their concentrated level of nutrients super foods are a natural way to increase your energy and feel great through out the whole day.
Natural multivitamin – Spirulina powder
I promise you this stuff tastes better than it smells, you just need to know how to use it. More importantly Spirulina is packed with more nutrients than any other plant. It is high in protein, iron, magnesium and B12 perfect for boosting your energy through out the day.
My favourite way to have this superfood is in a juice. You can also use it in salad dressings, shakes or sprinkled on your cereal.
Fuel up with Coconut oil
Coconut oil is high in saturated fat but the type of fat it contains, actually has health benefits. Its easy to digest and quickly converted to energy for brain and muscle function.
Coconut oil is stable in heat can be used in baking, stir fries, raw food recipes and
Swap your chocolate bar for Cacao Powder
Craving chocolate? Heres a superfood substitute thats full of goodness without the guilt. Cacao is high in magnesium and iron which are important for energy production. Cacao contains certain nutrients that have a stimulating effect on the nervous system and helps to elevate mood. Cacao is a good replacement for that sugary treat but should still be consumed in moderation.
Can use in a hot chocolate, smoothies, in baking and in your breakfast cereal
Chia Seeds
High protein and high fibre, chia seeds help to maintain energy levels sustained energy and sensation of fullness. Chia seeds are also high in iron, calcium and magnesium.
Chia seeds have a mild flavour and can be added to cereals, stir fries, shakes and salads.
Maca
Rich in B Vitamins and other minerals this super food is a natural energy booster. Macca has a similar effect as caffeine but with out the side effects.
Maca can be used in juices, smoothies, baking or cereals.
LIFESTYLE
Nothing with numbers– Did you know that some foods actually require more nutrients to digest than they actually provide? To avoid feeling tired and lethargic after a meal, try consuming whole, unprocessed foods with the right balance of protein, whole grains and fruits and vegetables
Avoid skipping meals – food is fuel for our bodies. Eating at regular intervals, every 3-4 hours, has been showed to maintain energy levels and improve concentration.
Stay away from stimulants – No Im not going to take your morning coffee away from you, well maybe not everyday, but it would be a good idea just to keep it to one cup a day and eventually just as a treat. Swap the sugary snack with dried fruit and raw nuts, or veggies and hummus.
Water – Even mild dehydration can cause fatigue. Consume at least 2 litres a day. Try adding a slice of fruit or fresh mint – it flavours the water with out adding unwanted calories.
Exercise- Exercise may be the last thing you feel like doing when you are exhausted but it can actually increase your energy levels.Even if its a simple 30 minute walk you will feel an improvement.