Do you head for the caffeine or the sugar? Or a bit of each?

Here are 7 of my Top Tips to boost your energy in a healthful way.

Lack of energy or chronic tiredness is one of the most common complaints that brings people in to see me at my clinic.
So I have listed below some things to think about to help your energy levels, without depleting those adrenals even more!

1. LAUGH – Laughter is the best medicine. Your blood pressure will appreciate it and so will the boost in oxygen from a good belly laugh. It is also the best antidote for stress (another energy sponge).

2. SUNLIGHT and FRESH AIR – Artificial lighting and recirculated air is not healthful. Taking some time to breathe in fresh air, in sunlight will lift moods and energise anyone.

3. POWER NAP – Not a long leisurely ‘Nanny Nap’ but listening to your body and resting for a short time (10-30 mins) can help us re-ignite the energy supply. We often come back with more clarity and a ‘second wind.’

4. WATER – Even mild dehydration can cause drowsiness. Sipping water throughout the day is better than gulping once you feel thirsty.

5. PROTEIN not SUGAR – Protein sustains our energy over longer periods of time instead of sugar spikes. Something like my protein balls are great for this.

6. STAND UP – Hunching over the computer for hours tends to constrict the diaphragm, this leads to shallow breathing. Shallow breathing means you get less oxygen which in turn, leads to drowsiness and brain-fog. So stand up at regular intervals, take a deep breath and stretch.

7. GET MOVING – Exercise is the best way to increase your energy. Studies have shown that brisk walking in the mornings maintains energy levels throughout the day.  And don’t forget exercise increases your breathing, thus oxygen supply as mentioned above.

So before you order that extra coffee, or that sugary pastry, try some of these suggestions first.
Your adrenals do not like sugar or caffeine so they will thank you.