How to boost your energy

While some people assume exercise will wear you down, it actually has opposite effects. On a scientific level, working out pushes an increase of mitochondria production in your muscle cells. This mitochondria is what generates the energy from glucose in your meals as well as oxygen. In addition to this, exercise increases the circulation of oxygen throughout your body which then assists the mitochondria’s energy creation, encouraging better functionality and better efficiency of energy. So while, initially, working out may make you extremely tired, in the long run, it will give you more energy. In fact, you may find you can get more things done throughout the day, despite removing 45 minutes of your day for exercise. 

Exercise is also proven to help with falling asleep faster and then having a deeper sleep, so you have more energy in the following days. Try to do some form of exercise every day, even if that means going on a walk on two out of the seven days. 

Teas

Of course, coffee is often used for a sudden boost of energy. However, as many of us know, this comes with an afternoon crash. The same goes for pre-workout and other alternatives with high levels of caffeine. You can instead opt for other supplements and teas with lower levels of caffeine or L-Theanine. Green tea is a common option, which naturally has small levels of both  caffeine and L-Theanine – an ingredient that is proven to enable better sleep and mental focus. Green tea has additional health benefits as an antioxidant. There are various supplements out there that are designed for an energy boost – simply search energy capsules online and do your research to find what you are looking for. These include ingredients such as L-Theanine which scientifically boost energy levels. 

Minimise stress

According to psychologists, stress can significantly minimise your energy levels. When your mind is on high alert and you’re facing anxiety, your body puts all of its energy into trying to troubleshoot these issues. It can be mentally and physically draining. Similar to how grief or heartbreak can take it out of you, so to does stress. Try to reduce your stress where possible and if needed, invest your spare time into mindfulness.

Keep hydrated and cut down the alcohol

For obvious reasons, drinking more water is better for your health. What many people aren’t aware of is the fact that thirst can sometimes display itself as fatigue. You may feel really tired but it’s actually your body signaling you are in need of hydration. Keeping your body hydrated by having as close to the correct amount of water per day for your weight as possible will avoid this confusion in your body. Try to drink 250ml of water and see if it alters your energy levels. 

If you’re one to have a glass of wine or a beer on evening, try to leave this for the weekend only. Alcohol interferes with the quality of your sleep and while it may feel like you’re in a deep sleep, it’s actually creating the opposite effect. This has negative effects on your energy the following day.

Olivia Fairhurst is a content manager for Franklin Engineering, diesel engine reconditioners in Auckland NZ.