The Top 10 Ways to Boost Your Energy

The mind is willing, but the flesh is pooped! If you've got some great ideas and fun plans, but need more energy to carry them out, here are the top ten ways to get the energy you need. While our energy level is influenced by our body type, age, size, health, physical activity and the activity of our adrenal glands, pituitary glands, climate and nutrition, there are still a few things we CAN do to boost our energy level.

1. Get the sleep you need!
Nothing is more draining than running on less sleep than we need. It affects our ability to process, reason, concentrate and disce
hunger. So make sure you get the shut-eye your body requires.

2. Drink your H2O!
Any time our body is dehydrated, we impede our mental performance, as well as our body's ability to process waste, fight off infection, maintain body temperature and stay alert!

3. Eat what your body requires to function well!
Unless you've been advised by a doctor, don't fast or take in less than 1200 calories a day on the average. Eating too little leaves you feeling tired, cranky and depressed. And worse, when you do start to eat normally again, your brain will kick in some europeptide-Y, to make you binge and stock up for the next fast!

4. Get your protein and your carbs in.
At various points in the day you may crave carbs and at other times, want protein. Listen to what your body is desiring and eat accordingly.

5. Eat some fat!
Yes, you read that right! SOME fat! Not eating enough fat can actually overstimulate your hunger and drain you of valuable energy. Shoot for the 20% to 30% range.

6. Take your vitamins!
It's true. No matter how hard we try, we just can't seem to get in all the minerals and nutrients we need from food. Start with your daily multi- and consider adding some extra Vitamin C, Calcium, and Vitamin E.

7. Get the iron in.
Iron deficiency among women is one of the leading causes of fatigue. Either take a supplement or try kidney beans, lean red meat and tofu, which are great sources of iron.

8. Avoid the sugar and alcohol.
Both substances will create a sense of fatigue and lethargy.

9. Don't eat too much!
Overeating and feeling stuffed only creates a desire to curl up and snooze! Instead, eat to the point where you're satisfied but not stuffed. How do you know? Well, ask yourself if you'd be ready for a 30-minute brisk walk afterwards...if you are, you're just right!

10. Take a cat nap.
If you're feeling tired and can take a few minutes - lie down in a comfortable spot for a brief nap. About 20 to 30 minutes will almost always refresh you.