How to boost your energy without a caffeine overload
An impending work project deadline is looming. You’re up against tough competition at a sporting event. You didn’t sleep well. You’re suffering from jet lag, a hangover, or typical afternoon slump... there are lots of reasons why you might reach for an energy drink. Resist the urge! Those heavily-caffeinated quick fixes are often laden with questionable ingredients and come with unwanted after-effects. Here are 10 ways you can safely boost your energy to achieve your goals.
1. Sip some tea.
Teas are a healthier alternative to energy drinks. Black teas contain the highest amount of caffeine, ranging between 64 and 112 milligrams per 8-ounce serving. Oolong tea generally has less caffeine than black tea, but more than green tea or white tea. There are also tea blends especially formulated with organic herbs and spices to support the type of energy you need, including those to inspire positive energy, calming, and focus.
2. Eat your breakfast
Mom was right, after all. People who eat something for breakfast report feeling less fatigue and stress later in the day than people who don’t eat in the morning. High-fiber foods like hot oatmeal and other whole grains and cereals will sustain you longer than a gooey, sweet pastry.
3. Keep a nutritious energy bar on hand.
For an energy boost, improved focus and productivity without the jitters, eat a Verb Energy bar. Each delicious bar is 110 calories or less, vegan, gluten-free, non-GMO, and powered with green tea.
4. Push through the burn with a healthy sports bar.
Athletes need the right sports nutrition to meet their goals. Honey Stinger sports bars, chews, and hydration use nature's natural sweeteners to bring out your best, provide nutrition to power your health, while still tasting great. These bars bring out the best in non-athletes, too; oh, how sweet it is!
5. Chew some gum.
Researchers have found that chewing gum can increase metabolic rates by up to 15 percent. For a quick burst of energy, pop in a piece of chewing gum, but skip varieties that contain artificial ingredients. Try one of our all-natural, sugar-free gums created by Joyride or Refresh. Both are made in the USA and free from high fructose corn syrup and synthetic colors.
6. Eat a protein bar.
Foods that can help beat feelings of fatigue during the day tend to be high in protein, good fats, and fibers. Foods high in iron and other nutrients are also helpful. For a boost of positive, real food high-protein energy that will revitalize your spirit all day long, check out our delicious line-up of Go-Macro protein bars.
7. Go nuts...
Loaded with protein, vitamins and healthy fats, nuts and seeds are some of the best foods to beat fatigue. A variety of nuts and seeds in our power snacks can help
provide the energy you need, plus nutrients. Trail mixes that contain naturally sweet dried fruits as well as nuts are also energy powerhouses.
8. Mix up some protein powder.
Plant-based protein powders really deliver! They’re a reliable source of easy-to-digest protein for vegetarians, vegans, athletes, and people recovering from injuries or illnesses. For a quick protein fix, they mix up well with soy, oat or almond milk (adding even more protein), or simply water.
9. Stay hydrated.
When your body doesn't have enough water, you get tired. Although it doesn’t provide energy, all body organs rely on water to perform at their optimal levels. Keep a water bottle handy and sip it throughout the day, instead of sodas and coffee. If you’re feeling dehydrated, rebalance your electrolytes by adding an all-natural, gut-friendly hydration drink mix to your water.
10. Get grounded.
Breathe... deeply. Too much energy without focus is really no better than too little energy. Research has shown that controlling your breath can help manage stress and improve concentration. Take several minutes to get grounded in a quiet space. Add aromatherapy to help calm and focus your mind. Peppermint and eucalyptus essential oils are believed to be effective aids; peppermint invigorates the mind, increasing clarity and focus, while eucalyptus cuts through brain fog to refresh and stimulate mental activity. Other energizing essential oils include: sweet orange, spearmint, bergamot, cinnamon, grapefruit, rosemary, lemon, pine, and thyme.
