Do you suffer from the 2pm blues? Do you feel listless, lethargic, and heavy-eyed? Does your energy run out hours before your time runs out? No, this isn’t a bad infomercial for a caffeine shot. Considering the increasingly hectic lifestyles today, a common problem is a lack of energy, which can make it hard to get through busy workdays without caffeine. But because of caffeine’s health risks, there is a strong desire for safe, all-natural energy boosting alternatives. On that note, here are five natural ways to boost energy without the risk of any side effects.
1: Drink Vegetable Juice
Instead of drinking coffee or energy drinks, try vegetable juice. Blending vegetables loses the fiber, making the nutrients easy for your body to absorb and providing an energy boost that you’ll feel almost instantly. In addition, drinking vegetable juice is a great way to fight off and prevent illnesses, which helps boost energy in the long run.
2: Stay Hydrated
One of the most common causes of low energy is dehydration. Not drinking enough water can slow down your metabolism and leave you feeling tired and without energy. Most health experts recommend eight 8-ounce glasses of water a day, so you should always try to drink at least that much. Another good way to stay hydrated is with electrolytes. For natural alternatives to sports drinks, try drinking coconut water, or consider electrolyte supplements.
3: B12 Supplements
On the topic of nutritional supplements, another great way to boost energy naturally is to take vitamin B12 supplements. Vitamin B12 is an “essential vitamin” necessary for healthy bodily function, as it helps keep your blood cells and nerve cells healthy. B12 also, however, plays a key role in energy levels, but many people don’t get enough of it in their diets. To supplement that, invest in B12 vitamin supplements.
4: Get Some Sunlight
Believe it or not, getting regular sunlight is proven to raise energy levels and improve mood. According to the Vitamin D Council, “Large amounts of vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) are made in your skin when you expose all of your body to summer sun. This happens very quickly; around half the time it takes for your skin to begin to burn. This could be just 15 minutes for a very fair skinned person, yet a couple of hours or more for a dark skinned person.” If you’re spending lots of time indoors and lacking energy, go for short walks outside to spend some time in the sun.
5: Chia Seeds
According to Draxe, “Chia seeds (salvia hispanica) have become one of the most popular superfoods in the health community. They’re easy to digest when prepared properly and a very versatile ingredient that adds easily to recipes. Plus, chia seeds benefits are plentiful.” Chia seeds are a great pick-me-up when you’re craving caffeine. Because they’re loaded with B vitamins, protein and fiber, they give you an energy boost without making you feel twitchy or over-energized as caffeine might.
By following any of these all-natural energy boosting tips, you should experience a quick and noticeable increase in energy. If you keep these habits up long-term, you’ll consistently be more alert, healthier, and happier. Whether you’re feeling lethargic or just need an energy boost to get through the day, know that there are lots of natural alternatives to caffeine that come without any health risks.
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