While trendy supplements may promise to make you feel healthy and energetic, they are not the real solution. Instead, the secrets to having more energy are eating the right foods and creating healthy lifestyle choices that support your overall health and vitality. In this blog article, let’s discuss three specific secrets to having more energy naturally.
1. Drink more water
One of the earliest signs of dehydration is fatigue. The brain and body cannot function properly without adequate water. Generally speaking, a person is adequately hydrated if they rarely feel thirsty and their urine is colorless or light yellow.
Interestingly, some adults feel hungry when, in fact, they are dehydrated and need to drink water. When you’re focused on work, particularly activities with tight deadlines, drinking water may be the last thing on your mind. Nevertheless, even if you have a packed schedule, you must prioritize hydration and care for your basic needs. As a result, you will likely find yourself thinking more clearly and performing tasks more efficiently.
2. Minimize sugar
Although a sugary snack may seem to help you feel better, the boost doesn’t last long. Shortly afterward, you may experience a sugar crash—a sluggish feeling where you become drained and unproductive.
Instead of refined sugar, snack on foods for energy such as berries, apples, and pears to enhance your nutrition and increase productivity. The fiber in fruit slows the absorption of natural sugars and helps the body maintain more stable blood sugar. Additionally, fruit contains vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients (natural chemicals produced by plants) that support proper cellular function.
3. Start your day with energy-boosting foods
If getting out of bed feels impossible, your nutrition may be one of the underlying issues. A cup of coffee and sugary donut are not the secrets to having more energy in the morning. Instead, focus on nourishing yourself with a healthy breakfast consisting of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains that can curb your cravings and fuel you for hours on end.
Remember, when you’re trying to improve your energy and overall health, focus on high-quality nutrition. Start with the basics: drink more water and eat mostly whole plant-based foods throughout the day.
Carla Hightower, MD, MBA is a physician, health coach, workplace wellness consultant, and speaker. She helps people heal themselves with food. Through wellness workshops and courses, she helps companies create healthy, energetic teams.
Thank you, Doc. I have been consuming sugar and am much more tired. I know better. Your reminder is appreciated!
Thank you, Ann! Sugar is everywhere so you’re not alone. I know it’s a challenge to change a habit, but energy makes us feel so good.