Boosting Energy

I frequently am asked about how to boost energy. What exactly does boosting energy mean? For most, this is very subjective. Does it mean not feeling tired? Does it mean being able to easily perform the activities you desire? Does it mean staying awake while you are reading this? Everyone wants more energy.

First, realize that often there are no “quick fixes” as you often read about in advertisements. These fixes might help your brain feel like you are doing something and this might help some, but I think a practical approach is a better way to start.

See your provider and make sure you do not have a medical condition causing fatigue. Old age is not a medical condition. Anemia, diabetes, hypo (low) thyroid, sleep apnea, depression, medications, weak heart, and damaged lungs, are places to look.

Let’s assume everything checks out fine. Here is a list of ten ways to boost energy.

1. Water: Drink it. Lack of water, dehydration, is one of the leading causes of fatigue. Cold water also might increase your adrenaline levels.
2. Rest: Go to bed earlier. Turn off the television and other media. Take a day off every week. Go on vacation. If your arms were tired, you would not keep lifting weights. Maybe you just need rest.
3. Breathing: Breathe deeply. Deep breathing delivers more oxygen to the brain, which helps you stay alert.
4. Movement: Move every hour. Take a walk outside. Start an exercise program. This gets your blood flowing, which improves circulation (oxygen delivery to the cells) and will help your brain function. This will also increase serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine. These are brain transmitters, which can increase energy.
5. Nutrition: Eat more plants and less processed foods. Processed sugar will give you a surge but you will also see a plummet later. Plants offer a slower, more natural release of sugar, carbohydrates.
6. Stretching: Stretch often. If you do not move, body parts become stiff. stretching will re-energize muscles.
7. Minerals: Eat foods with magnesium. Many are deficient in this mineral. Magnesium helps break down glucose
   for energy. Nuts and seeds are good sources.
8. Vitamin D deficiency: Just getting outside more or taking a supplement will help always help. Ask yourself, what
   can you do today to help your energy? What is a step I can take? Replenish this hormone which all the cells need for adequate function.
9. Do not skip meals. Eat breakfast. Skipping one meal can cause fatigue by the end of the day. This will also help keep your blood sugar balanced throughout the day.
10. Be positive. Focusing on positive things.

Most of these are common sense. These are great places to start to improve your energy. You do not necessarily need a pill or stimulant to improve your energy. If you might have a specific health question, let us know.