So this weekend I went cruising the Whole Foods’ aisles in search of a chill pill, literally (Ha!).  Seeing as how several people at work have actually told me how bad I look (“OMG, you look so tired!”, “Oooo girl, you ok?”), I figured that maybe I needed a little boost of energy.   I know I’m not the only one.  More often than not, we feel as if we’re spread way too thin and the juggling act with work and/or school, holiday plans and/or tending to our significant others, etc really begins to take its toll.  Here are a few ideas of how we can put the spring back in our steps.  Some are pretty basic and others a little less so…

1. Water

Ok, ok.  I know…in every other column I write, I end up mentioning water.  But the truth is that hydration plays a huge role in the body functioning well.  Yeah, sports drinks are ok, but as I tell my patients all the time, just plain water is pretty great, too!  If you need a little extra ‘oomph’ to it, add a little lemon or find an infused water recipe that you like.

2. Vitamins

Without the body having the vitamins and nutrients it needs, it ain’t working!  There are a ton of different minerals, electrolytes, etc that are necessary, but there are a couple to zero in on.  Magnesium is a mineral used for hundreds of biochemical reactions in the body and is essential for energy.  Foods like almonds, hazelnuts, and those rich in whole grains are great sources of magnesium.  B vitamins help the body to turn its ‘fuel’ (food) into energy.  Seeing as how there are several B vitamins, a B-complex is your best bet (vs simply taking B6 or B12 alone).

3. Apple Cider Vinegar

ACV, in its raw form, has long being thought of as a ‘health tonic’ of sorts.  Whether due to its alkalinity or some other property hidden in it, it seems to provide a good boost to energy levels while doing countless other things for the body (I’m telling you…look it up!  ACV is supposed to take care of almost anything).

4. Small Meals

Regular, healthy meals can have a positive effect on stamina.  Frequent small meals are also helpful with metabolism.  Three very large meals can often leave you feeling more sluggish than peppy. Remember to snack well, too. 

These are just a (very) few ideas on how to get the juices flowing and raise your stamina.  Try them out and tell me what you think.  I do want you to bear in mind, though, that chronic low energy levels might require a visit to the doctor.  When you feel like you’re constantly running on fumes, it might be indicative of a bigger problem.  I always say: “listen to your body!”  It knows more than you think it does.

Pep Up!

As always, if you have any questions or concerns, run it by your healthcare provider, and see what s/he has to say. They are familiar with you and your medical history, and can provide great advice as to how to take the best possible care of your body.