Sometimes all it takes is that spark of motivation, but sometimes you need help getting there; you need a little boost.
If you find yourself feeling unmotivated and tired throughout the day, then you may just need an energy boost. But you may also be lacking in a crucial area, such as getting a good night's sleep. So make sure to diagnose your situation carefully so you can target each problem.
Energize your body naturally~
Avoid those energy drinks for fueling energy. The effect is short lived and you just end up feeling even more tired and down than before. This is because energy drinks have high amounts of caffeine and sugar which travels quickly through your bloodstream which gives you a surge of energy with a short lifespan. The side effects can include: insomnia, irregular heart beats, seizures, and an increased rate of heart attacks. It's overall best to stay away from them. And make sure to not mix them with alcohol, it can be dangerous and it's better to be safe than sorry.
Adequate sleep is another essential for maintaining good energy levels, so make sure to get a good night's sleep so your body can recover and regenearte so you'll be feeling energized and attentive for the day.
We also get energy from the sun! So make sure to get your daily dose of sunlight, but don't forget that sun screen to protect you from those harmful UV rays.
But one of the most important ways to get healthy naturally is by consuming healthy foods. Foods have natural healing powers and many benefits, so be a smart cookie about it and choose the right ones.
Healthy energy boosting foods:
Whole grains: Your body's main source of fuel comes from carbohydrates, so it makes sense that whole grains (which contain carbs) are a great source for energy. Opt for healthy grains, like whole wheat pasta, brown rice, and quinoa.
-Water: This is the essential for life, we are made of water and we require water to live. But water also has a variety of health benefits that come along with it like helping maintain good energy levels. Water transports all of the nutrients in the blood that are used for energy.And it also helps carry/wash out the waste that builds up in our bodies that depletes our energy. It regulates body temperature and helps the body metabolize the food that is converted to energy. Therefore, it truly is an essential for many bodily functions and maintaining good health. It is recommended that people drink 8-10 cups every day.
Fruit: All fruit contains natural sugars that can help increase your energy levels. They also contain vital nutrients and vitamins that are essential to thrive, so in general they are necessary for consumption. They are high in antioxidants, contribute to lowering cholesterol, help keep digestion regular, lower your risk of high blood pressure and prevent strokes, as well as many other benefits for your body. You can also reap many benefits from aroma therapy (which I will go more into depth later), and citrus scents can actually help boost energy levels too. So if you're feeling low on energy, peel and orange and inhale the scent before consuming.
-Spicy herbs and peppers: Consuming peppers and foods seasoned with spicy herbs can actually speed up your metabolism with very few calories. It's great for weight loss and bossting your energy levels. They are also great mood lifters.
-Almonds (raw): Almonds contain monounsaturated fats that provide omega 3's and 6's, which help keep the mind alert. So if you need an energy boosting and help with concentration, perhaps you need to keep your mind on something specific like following through with your daily exercise routine, then almonds would be an ideal snack. They are a good source of both protein and healthy fats that help balance sugar levels. And on top of all of that, they can even reduce the risk of heart disease.
-Coffee: Coffee beans have a lot of health benefits, they are a natural source of caffeine which can increase the number of fatty acids in the bloodstream and give you an energy boost. Just make sure that the coffee you're drinking isn't packed with high amounts of sugar, because there is a lot of coffee out on the market that can actually prove to be more bad than good for you. Other bonus benefits include lowering the risk of Type 2 Diabetes, Alzheimers, and Parkinsons. It may also aid in weight loss and can even help fight off depression. However, remember that moderation is key, too much coffee can be harmful.
-Green vegetables: One cause of low energy may be depleted iron levels; green vegetables like broccoli, spinach, and other dark leafy greens are full of iron. They are a great source of many vital nutrients which can improve your overall health. So make sure to have your daily serving of vegetables.
-Dark chocolate: Chocolate, preferably dark (which is more beneficial), can actually help give you a good source of energy. The bioactive compounds, like tyramine and phenlethylamine, found in chocolate have been scientifically proven to elevating your energy levels. It can also improve longevity and help fight anemia. On the side of that, chocolate also has high amounts of cancer-fighting antioxidants. So all of you chocolate lovers out there have something to be proud about while eating chocolate.
-Oats: In addition to being high in fiber and vitamin B, oats are low on the glycemic index and can deliver a stream of energy to your body. These nutrients can help turn carbs into energy. So adding oats to your cookies and other potentially sugary foods can be a healthy addition. Having a bowl of oatmeal for breakfast can be a great way to start off your day energized. Opt to make your own fresh oats and enhance them by adding fresh fruit and raw honey.
-Eggs: The yolk in eggs are rich in Vitamins B and D. These vitamins help convert food into energy as well as contribute to maintaining strong bones. They have a high protein content and contain all of the 9 essential amino acids.Eggs also help build and repair body tissue and cells. They can help fight off infections and keep your body fluids in balance too. Eggs are overall a healthy addition to any meal, especially if you're looking to naturally boost your energy.
-Peanuts/Peanut butter
Remember, your health and how you feel is depended upon what you put into your body. As they say, "You are what you eat." So here at The Smart Cookie, we emphasize on eating healthy and making smart choices when it comes to food so that you can be your best.
So don't be a dumb donut, be a smart cookie and eat a smart meal that will actually benefit and help you get on the path to becoming a better you.
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