Winter is here and so it everything it brings along with it: cold, snow and less sun. Less sun automatically translates into less energy for most people, because the sun doesn’t just give us light, it gives us Vitamin D and it has a huge impact on our brain and how it works. During the cold season, people sometimes need to turn to energy boosters, such as supplements and even pills to regain some of the long lost energy that the sun took away with it. Today, we’re going to show you how to be in top shape with ten best natural energy boosters that are going to increase your performance and help you have a fulfilling day and season.
10. Water
Believe it or not, water in the cold season acts as a natural energy booster. During the warm season, people sweat and feel the need to drink water, but in the winter, people tend to drink less water than they do in the summer, which is very bad news for your body. We need water to function properly and without enough water, our bodies will be sluggish and lacking energy. So drink up this winter!
9. Oranges
Pretty much all citrus will do, actually. Extremely high in Vitamin C, which is a natural antioxidant, oranges will also help you wake up more easily in the morning. If you don’t like orange juice, try adding a slice of orange to your water, the simple smell of the orange will stimulate your senses and your brain and act as a natural energy booster.
8. Nuts and Seeds
Out of all the foods available to us, nuts and seeds are the most beneficial. Almonds, hazelnuts, cashews, sunflowers seeds and pumpkin seeds contain high levels of magnesium, which is the number one natural energy boosting mineral. This mineral helps convert the sugar you put into your body to energy. Keep in mind that if you want to reap the benefits of the nuts and seeds, they need to be eaten raw.
7. Quinoa
Quinoa is a super food! It is rich in protein and complex carbohydrates that will keep you full and energized. It is also absolutely delicious and can be eaten in the morning with raisins, cranberries and milk or for lunch with delicious vegetables and even some meat. Try it once and you’ll be hooked forever!
6. Dark Chocolate
If you really need an energy boost in the afternoon, when most people’s energy levels start dropping, we suggest you try a bit of dark chocolate. It’s an excellent source of magnesium and iron and it will pick you up in no time. You have to make sure that you choose the type that has at least 70% cocoa in it, otherwise you’ll be getting 70% sugar.
5. Lentils
Lentils should be awarded the best pulse award, because aside from being utterly delicious, they’re also great for stabilizing our blood glucose levels and help prevent an afternoon crash that sends most reaching for junk food and candy. Make a nice, study lentil curry and you’ll see how your energy will shoot through the roof.
4. Eggs
If you can eat eggs, then we suggest you do it, especially if you are in need of energy. Eggs are simply perfect for providing you the energy you need during the cold season. They are high in protein, iron and have choline, which is a B-type vitamin that your brain requires to function well. Choline also helps your energy levels increase.
3. Exercise
Exercise is a natural energy booster. Have you noticed that right after you’ve had a workout, you actually don’t feel tired, but energized? Make sure you incorporate physical exercise into your winter routine, if you want to feel and look great. We suggest Pilates, Yoga and indoor running, they’re perfect for the cold season!
2. Green Tea
Aside from being absolutely wonderful for your body (it has been proven that green tea will help prevent certain types of cancer and fight against cardiovascular disease), green tea is also a great and natural energy booster. Drink one cup in the morning and in a couple of weeks you won’t feel the need for coffee anymore. Use honey or agave syrup as natural sweeteners.
1. Kale
Ever since the dawn of time, men and women have wondered how they could trick their bodies into having more energy. Well, the answer is simple: eat lots of kale! Just like quinoa, kale is a super, super food; a great energy booster and a great source of calcium. If you want to reap these benefits, eat it raw in salads.
What are your favorite natural energy boosters? Do you have any food that is an instant pick-me-up?
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