Where do you get your energy from?

With the craze of energy drinks, pills and potions these days it seems that we are lacking something in our daily experience that is leaving us drained and tired. Granted the stress level has increased over the years but not to the point where unless we have a cup of coffee or a 5 hour energy drink we won't make it through the day.

I believe that unless there is some kind of health condition you should have sufficient energy to get through the day without the use of stimulants or extra B vitamins. The problem for the average healthy person is not that they NEED an energy supplement but a lifestyle that produces and sustains energy!

The first is diet. Energy is supposed to come from the food we eat. If we eat the right amount of the right foods that will provide a good foundation for nutrition while fueling our bodies with the nutrients that it needs to provide proper energy levels. So watch what, when and how you eat. A diet that is rich in organic whole foods, complex carbohydrates, lean sources of protein and good lipids is the starting place for good health and nutrition. You are what you eat.

Next is a proper exercise regime. Again, nothing fancy, just a regular routine of some aerobic, anaerobic and stretching exercises done 3-5 days a week. This keeps the body functioning at peak levels. It also increases energy levels throughout the day, reduces the effects of stress on the body and even wards off depression a leading cause of fatigue. Use it or lose it.

As I wrote in prior posts, sleep is a critical component to health and fitness. Sleep gives our body and brain the time it needs to repair, restore and rejuvenate. Studies show that you should get 6-8 hours of uninterrupted sleep each day. Sleep deprivation can lead to several health problems like obesity, depression and obviously the lack of energy when you need it.

Stress and competition has increased the load on the body and mind and can drain a person of energy if not properly managed. The goal is not to eliminate stress and competition as they are great motivators and help us achieve our goals. The goal is to monitor and manage them especially if we are feeling tired and weak on a regular basis.

Let's not be so quick to try to find "the answer" to our lack of energy or focus in a pill or drink. Let's look at the factors above first and make sure that we are doing the best we can in these areas and if the problem persists, see a medical professional for testing.

Grace and Peace,

Ed

www.urilife.net/realfoodforlife