Here is some fabulous and extremely helpful advice from my talented friend and guest blogger...Paula Ryan, MS, RD. Miss Paula tailored this blog entry to me and my lack of energy :) Please contact her for your own personalized health advice!
Find the Energy you need to make it through the Day
Paula Ryan, MS, RD
Healthiest Regards
Does your workday feel like a Sprint Triathlon, rushing from one event to the next? Are you exhausted half way through the day? Here are some tips that will get you to that end-of-the-day finish line.
Get enough sleep
How many hours of sleep do you need to feel refreshed and ready to go in the morning? I need 8 1/2. Some need more, some need less. Be honest with yourself and get the rest you need.
Don't go Crazy with Caffeine
Too much caffeine in the morning can result in an energy "crash" a few hours later. Limit your coffee consumption to 1 or 2 cups in the morning, or switch to tea which usually has a little bit less caffeine per cup.
Exercise
Whether it's in the morning before work, at lunch, or after work, exercise is a must. The health benefits related to exercise seem endless. You'll feel better when you are done; you will be proud of yourself for your accomplishments. Find the time; it's on your list of things to do; it's THAT important.
Eat small meals frequently
Don't get too hungry or too full. Eat every couple of hours. Each snack or meal should be made up of whole grains (complex carbohydrates), a lean or low-fat protein, and a fruit or vegetable serving.
Don't Skip a Meal
Your body needs energy to function. If it doesn't get the fuel it needs, you may begin to feel drained as your body searches for energy to use to get through the day. Skipping meals may also lead to unhealthy snacking or overindulging at your next meal.
Drink your fluids
Have some water available at your desk. Limit your soda and juice consumption. Even a small amount of dehydration may lead to fatigue.
Take a multivitamin + minerals
Because we aren't perfect, and sometimes you won't get 100% of what you need from what you eat.
Eat the good fats, limit the bad fats
Eat foods that are low in fat and very low in saturated fats. Fish is a great source for good fats. If you don't like fish, try it again. (If you really don't like it, take a fish oil supplement.) Too much fat in one meal slows digestion and may make you feel sluggish. Stay away from too many fried foods, pick grilled or broiled instead.
For more information or for personalized nutrition advice, visit HealthiestRegards.com
