Have you ever found yourself dozing off at work, wishing that you had more energy to make it through the day? Or after a long task, you feel worn out and ready to call it a day? There are many ways to boost your energy, but not all of them are necessarily healthy or good habits. Here are five healthy ways to feel more energized throughout the day.
Drink More Water
Drinking clean water is crucial to staying healthy and energized. Feeling sluggish or having low energy could be a sign of dehydration. The amount of water you should drink daily depends on your body type, age, and activity level. People who are more active tend to need more water. As a rule of thumb, when you’re feeling low energy and thirsty, grab a glass of water instead of a beverage that’s high in sugar and calories.
Eat Healthier Foods
The food you eat should be fueling your body, not slowing you down. Highly processed foods with high amounts of added sugar or refined carbohydrates can temporarily spike your energy and blood sugar levels. But these foods often come with a crash that makes you feel lethargic. Whenever you’re craving a snack, opt for foods made with natural ingredients that contribute to a balanced diet.
Don’t Skip Breakfast
Eating three meals a day is an easy way to feel energized throughout the day. Having a nutritious breakfast doesn’t just boost your mood and energy level in the morning, but it can also affect your whole day. Three meals a day is also advised for adults to reach the recommended daily intake of vitamins and minerals.
Exercise More
Regular movement at any intensity is another way to fight fatigue. Activities like walking, stretching, and other cardio exercises are simple ways to increase your heart rate and get more oxygen to your brain. According to MedlinePlus, regular exercise is also linked to having a better mood and overall sleep quality.
Get Enough Sleep
Lastly, it’s important to get the recommended seven to nine hours of sleep every night so you feel energized for the day ahead. If you sleep for less than seven hours a night, you might have trouble staying awake during the day or staying focused. Having a consistent bedtime and avoiding long daytime naps can help you adjust your sleep schedule so that you stay alert all day.
Making small changes in your lifestyle can have a bigger impact than you might realize. Take one step at a time to address unhealthy habits that might be draining your energy. Before you know it, you’ll have no problem taking on the day!