Simple ways to get more energy

Diet and lifestyle play an important part in how you feel and the amount of energy you have to get you through the day. Let's take a look at some natural ways to boost your energy.

Energy Producing Nutrients:

The conversion of carbohydrates, protein and fats in our food into cellular energy requires the presence of specific nutrients. If the body is deficient in any of these essential nutrients, energy production is affected. This means that you may not convert your food efficiently into cellular energy and experience tiredness as a result.

Important energy producing nutrients include:

• Coenzyme Q10.

• B vitamins, including folic acid and biotin.

• Calcium, magnesium, manganese, iron, zinc, copper an sulphur.

Energy support with herbal medicine

For an energy boost, try these herbs:

• Korean Ginseng - Considered the most potent energy tonic in Traditional Chinese medicine, Korean ginseng is used during times of fatigue, exhaustion, tiredness and weakness to revitalize and strengthen the body. Korean ginseng also helps optimise the body’s response to stress and enhances physical performance.

• Siberian Ginseng - For over 2000 years Siberian ginseng has been used in traditional Chinese medicine to increase vitality and energy. Siberian ginseng is a wellbeing tonic, it aids in balancing and supporting the endocrine (hormone) system, helping to improve physical and mental responses during periods of fatigue, especially when due to chronic exposure to stress.

• Schisandra - In traditional Chinese herbal medicine Schisandra has a long history of use in restoring the body’s vitality, helping improve physical performance, endurance and resistance to the effects of physical and emotional stress. The liver’s detoxifying ability may also be improved with the use of schisandra.

Diet tips

• Ensure good hydration by drinking two litres of water daily.

• Eat regular meals.

• Choose meals containing complex carbohydrates, quality protein and healthy fats for a steady supply of energy throughout the day.

• Avoid junk foods high in sugar and refined carbohydrates, such as cakes, biscuits and soft drinks. Whilst they may supply a quick burst of energy, this is quickly followed by an energy slump, leaving you feeling more tired than before.

• Minimise caffeine and alcohol which act as a diuretic and leaches essential nutrients from the body.

• Eat a bitter salad with main meals to stimulate digestion and improve nutrient absorption.