The next time you are hit with a case of afternoon sluggishness, avoid the energy drinks and try these options instead!
- Rhodiola
This powerful energy-boosting plant helps multiply energy cells, helping to get you through the day without adding stress to your nervous system. Your body creates energy through the exchange of phosphate groups between adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and creatine phosphate (CP3) in your cellular mitochondria. When ATP splits, it creates energy, but it also leaves behind a molecule with only two phosphate groups. CP3 saves the day by donating one of its phosphate ions to ATP, the process of which makes it available for energy synthesis again. Known as the ATP-CP pathway, this energy synthesis happens in your body all throughout the day. With age, your level of creatine phosphate declines and so does your ability to re-synthesize more CP3. Rhodiola has been shown to produce higher levels of both ATP and CP, providing more energy molecules to take you from morning to night! - Hydrate
If your energy tends to lag as the day wears on, you may be getting dehydrated, which can zap your liveliness. Drink lots of water, and munch on H20-rich fruits and veggies like radishes, cucumbers, and watermelon. - Yerba Mate Tea
Coffee lovers will feel comfortable replacing their morning cup of joe with a mug of steaming yerba mate, given that it has a higher caffeine content than green tea. Along with a positive boost of energy, Yerba Mate also offers a hefty lineup of nutrients. - Feed the Machine
Have you ever had someone accuse you of being “hangry?” You may be one of the many people that quickly loses energy (and patience) if they haven’t eaten enough quality protein and fibre. Start your morning with protein from nut butters, eggs, or yogurt, and add fruits and whole grains to give you enough fuel to make it through until lunch. - Sweat & Exercise
is one of the best ways to recharge, but it is one of the hardest ways to boost energy, especially when all you want to do is take a nap. Call up that will power and head to yoga, spin class, or the running trail. Exercise sends a rush of oxygen and nutrients to blood cells and muscle tissues which stimulates energy production. By the end you will feel refreshed and ready to take on the rest of the day!
