Do you sometimes feel like your battery is weak? You start out strong, but by the middle of the day you start to feel lethargic. We all get tired from time to time, but fatigue is more common as we get older. Assuming your doctor has ruled out medical causes for persistent fatigue, there are some basic steps you can take to feel more energized every day.
Take it easy. Instead of burning your battery life in two hours, spread it out between morning tasks, afternoon tasks and evening activities - with rest and meals in between.
Take a walk or nap. A short nap can restore energy, but if you're having trouble getting enough sleep at night, napping can make insomnia worse. Instead of taking a siesta, get to work. Get up and walk around, or just move. However, if you don't suffer from insomnia, enjoy that 20 to 30 minute nap.
Skip most supplements. There is no evidence that supplements that boost energy or “aging” work. For example, iron is only useful if you are clearly deficient, which can be checked with a blood test. It's true that B vitamins (B1, B2, B6, B12) help the body convert food into the form of energy that cells can burn, but it's a myth that taking more B vitamins boosts your cells .
Eat long-lasting fuel. Your body burns sugars and highly processed carbohydrates, such as white bread, white rice or prepared bakery products, faster than protein and the carbohydrates in whole grains. Try yogurt with a handful of nuts, raisins, and honey instead. Your body will absorb this carb-fiber-protein mix more gradually. To really be fit all day, eat breakfast and lunch with complex carbohydrates and proteins.
Don't skip meals. It is better to divide your meals evenly so that your body gets the nutrition it needs throughout the day.
