From time to time, I think we could all use an energy boost. Personally, I need the boost more often than usual. My body has been in a recovery state for quite some time now, so it is safe to say a lot of my energy is depleted simply from healing. That energy depletion doesn’t even include my day-to-day routine.
The point is… I am all for energy boosters, especially when I need to get through the latter half of my day. I prefer to boost my energy without sugary products! There is no need for energy drinks, sugar highs, or anything of that sort. If anything, that only adds to the problem. Through research, as well as trial and error, I have found three energy boosters that work wonders for me.
Before listing them out, I want to mention that lately, I have been seriously considering going vegan. This has been something I continue to contemplate. I would LOVE to hear from any of you vegans out there who can provide thoughts, tips, testimonials, ANYTHING!
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With that being said, a tip I want to share for those needing an energy boost is DON’T EAT MEAT! You do not need to scarf down burgers or steak for energy. From my experience, that only makes it worse. Iron does not provide energy… glucose does. Eat carbs such as oatmeal, quinoa, nuts, or even fruit! Need more energy boosters? Keep reading…
Let’s get into it, shall we?
- Amazing Grass Green Superfood (ORAC) – I discovered this stuff at my local organic market. I found these cute sample packets that you can pour right into your water bottle for $1 or so. I figured it was a great way to try it out and see how I liked it. As far as flavor goes, I honestly cannot describe it. I want to say it tastes good, but I do believe it is an acquired taste. I won’t lie… My first ever sip was not pleasant. I had to mix it with apple juice or a smoothie to start. I just couldn’t get down with the flavor. Finally, after a few tries, I began to love it as is. Not to mention, I hated adding sugar through juice or smoothie ingredients. What I love most about this product is the energy it gives me. I feel so great after and ready to finish out my day. This brand has superfoods specific to “energy” but I find this product to work fine without the added Yerba Mate Extract and Matcha. The ORAC also boasts immunity support, probiotics, and an antioxidant boost. All of which are important to me. I highly recommend this product and suggest getting the sample packs before buying the container.
- Ice water with lemon or cucumber – A simple fix is to hydrate! Not only is ice water refreshing, cold, and great for hydration, it is (usually) FREE! The lemon or cucumbers add flavor AND nutritional benefits. Cucumbers are great for your skin, too. When my face breaks out, I drink tons of water and eat many cucumbers. As for lemons, I wrote an entire post two years ago about how amazing lemon water is, also. Check it out!
- Cocoa – Tee hee! This one is my favorite. I love chocolate. Who doesn’t? Here’s what you need to bear in mind with cocoa, though: added sugars lead to added problems. I know… cocoa on its own is bitter. Try this – Make a cup of hot cocoa with almond milk, cocoa powder, a wee bit of honey (if you need sweetness), and a splash of vanilla extract. My mouth is watering just typing this out. Why cocoa? Aside from cocoa containing minerals to support our hearts, immune system, and bones, it has low-levels of caffeine, that personally work wonders for me. Remember that cocoa is great, but you cannot add sugar, butter, and all that other shiznit that totally ruins the power of the chocolate!
I want to add something about caffeine. I am 100% a coffee lover. No, not pumpkin spice lattes or frappucinnos. I don’t add anything to my coffee. I like my coffee black (like my soul, lol jk). As far as servings go, I only drink one cup to start my day. Occasionally I will drink more, but not often. Here’s another “tip” to consider: Try to drink your coffee black. It took me a few servings before I could take it. Once I got into a rhythm, I never turned back (and never plan to). Now, the idea of coffee with milk, cream, sugar, syrups, etc. totally gross me out. YUCK!
Throw out your energy drinks. Say NO to five hour energy shots. Ditch that cup of coffee after 11 a.m. Give some of my energy boosters a chance and let me know what you think. My personal favorite is cocoa… duh.
Completely unwarranted life lesson from a married woman #34: Take time to do some research. Learn about things that can better your mind, body, and soul. For me, that is food or exercise related. What about you?
