Energy Boost!!

Energy aides:

• Drink 6-8 cups of water a day. Water aides in regulating the body's temperature and is required for the distribution of nutrients, electrolytes, hormones and other chemical messengers throughout the body.
• Carbohydrates, proteins and healthy fats supply the body with sustained energy. The right combination of carbohydrates, proteins and fats eaten at regular intervals will help keep energy levels high.
• L-Carnitine is a nutrient that helps the body turn fat into energy. Red meat and dairy products are the primary sources of carnitine. It can also be found in fish, poultry, tempeh, wheat, asparagus, avocados and peanut butter.
• Ginseng helps the body generate the energy it needs. It is known as an "adaptogen" which helps the body use its natural resources to buffer physical and mental stress.
• Eating healthy snacks every three to four hours will help keep blood sugar levels even and control energy "highs" and "lows".

Energy inhibitors:

• Too much sugar creates a brain-energy crisis, and leads to the inevitable sugar crash.
• Not drinking enough liquids can cause the body to feel fatigued due to dehydration. A healthy diet should include water, fruit juices, skim milk or other liquids.
• Too much food at once can zap energy from the body. Portion control is the key to healthy eating.
• Eating fried or fatty foods can make you feel sluggish. Too much fat at once can interfere with the body's ability to use glucose for energy.
• Not consuming enough calories to burn inevitable leads to situations with little to no energy.

Ayurveda guidelines for sustained energy:

Ayurveda prescribes fresh fruits, vegetables and whole grain, rather than caffeine and sugar, to support sustainable energy. These are foods rich in chetna, the healing and nurturing influence of nature, which prevents fatigue-causing toxins from settling in the body.
Ayurveda tips to energize the body:

• Dates and figs are excellent sources of energy. Try an energy shake of four to five dates, one cup of milk and a pinch of cinnamon powder.
• Whole grains such as rye, quinoa, amaranth and millet are high in protein and minerals, and provide the body with sustainable energy.
• Eat several peeled almonds daily to increase strength and energy. Ayurveda healers recommend blanching and peeling almonds.
• Start your day with stewed apples, a juicy pear or fresh fruit.