Are you in a low-energy rut? Sometimes it’s lack of sleep that’s the culprit, but other times – even if you’re getting enough sleep, you can fall into a vicious low energy cycle. And before you know it, you’re making frequent stops at Starbucks to kickstart your day. Make a few tweaks to increase your energy naturally without relying on caffeine or processed sugar.

Before I changed my whole lifestyle, I was one of those people who constantly fell into that 3 pm low energy slump. I fought to keep my eyes open, and the afternoons were sometimes sheer torture trying to muddle through to make it to the end of the day. I had a foggy brain, drooping eyelids and I just had low energy. Even though I was getting enough sleep this kept happening to me. Sometimes it was plain embarrassing as people walked by my office to see me go into “slo-mo” – jerking awake from almost napping! 

As a general rule, I do not have that issue anymore. Sure, there are some nights when I don’t sleep well, or maybe I have eaten something the night before that has drained me instead of energized me. But for the most part, I stay energized all day long.

If that describes you at all, here are some of the ways that you can keep your energy level high all day.

1. Drink apple cider vinegar

Apple cider vinegar has been tied to many health benefits, but did you know that increasing energy is also one of them? The amino acids contained in apple cider vinegar work to counter fatigue. Next time you’re feeling worn out, add a teaspoon or tablespoon of apple cider vinegar to a glass of water or your smoothie and watch your energy level rise.

2. Fuel up with fiber

Starting your day off with a breakfast containing fiber can help boost your alertness throughout the day. This is possibly because fiber takes longer to digest by slowing the absorption of food in the stomach, so blood sugar levels remain more steady for a longer period of time. Some great options are whole-grain toast or a bowl of oatmeal with ground flaxseed.

3. Pick a protein

While protein isn’t going to give you the energy surge you would get from a macchiato, it’s in it for the long haul giving you lasting energy for hours to come. Include protein in your meals throughout the day for energy without the crashes.

4. Have more frequent meals

Rather than having three meals a day, it may be beneficial to you to eat smaller meals more frequently throughout the day. This allows you to maintain a higher, more stable blood sugar level throughout the day so you’re not experiencing the sugar highs and lows.

5. Go for a stroll

If you tend to get a mid-afternoon energy downturn, going for a short walk can invigorate the rest of your day. The next time you feel a coffee run coming on, head outside for a walk instead.

These are just a few ways that you can increase your energy. Start with one of these tips and over time you’ll begin to reap the benefits of lasting energy — all it takes is a few simple shifts in your habits.

What do you plan on implementing this week to try to maintain your energy throughout the day? I’d love to hear, comment below and let me know what you plan on doing!

If you are struggling in this area, I would love to have the opportunity to chat with you. You can schedule a free clarity call with me. Let’s discuss your issues and find some solutions together. Schedule your call HERE.