Confession time: I have a serious coffee problem. As a compromise with myself, I have one small cup of coffee every day, and it takes a lot of restraint to keep to it. Lately, I’ve been cheating BIG TIME because it’s cold press coffee season, and cold press—and the energy, focus and overall feeling of invincibility it gives me—is probably in the top 10 list of things I love most in this world.
But, I’ve realized it’s time to wean off the sauce and go back to my one-cup-a-day habit. At least by the time the summer’s over and I can no longer justify keeping gallons of cold press in the house. Coffee might not be all bad (it’s good for your skin, after all), but there are much healthier ways to get an energy boost (ones that won’t leave you feeling like a zombie when they wear off).
10 Natural Energy Boosters
1. Water
There’s a self-care protocol I’ve seen where the first question is, “How much water have you had today?” Oftentimes when we’re sluggish (or hungry or crabby or headachy), we’re actually dehydrated, and a glass or two of ice-cold water will do the trick.
2. Dates
Dates include energy-boosting sugars that are counteracted with filling fiber, potassium and a little bit of protein. They’ll give you a little bit of a sugar rush without the crash.
3. Green Tea
Green tea still contains caffeine of course, but it also has a plethora of energy-, beauty- and immune-boosting antioxidants. Iced green tea can be mixed with sparkling water or a little juice to dilute the caffeine content if needed. Make sure to chase every mug of tea with a glass of water.
4. Fresh Air
Just stepping outside will give your lungs, eyes, and skin a much-needed jolt—and a dose of vitamin D, which is essential to energy production. You may want to take a D supplement if you live in a colder or cloudy climate, but make sure you’re still getting outside regularly during the day if possible. And of course, make sure you’re getting enough sleep!
5. Citrus
Even just smelling citrus increases serotonin. Lemon essential oil is noted as an energy booster, but you can also eat an orange or grapefruit to get the vitamin C and fiber or add lime or lemon juice to your water to get the benefits.
6. Peppermint
Not only can peppermint settle your stomach, just the aroma of it can increase focus and alertness. Keep some peppermint essential oil by your desk, or treat yourself to a cup of peppermint tea in the afternoon.
7. Nuts
Besides all the protein, healthy fats and fiber that nuts contain, they also help balance blood sugar. Keep a jar nearby at all times for those inevitable “I’m about to crash” moments where you’d normally grab a coffee.
8. Salmon
Fish is brain food, thanks to all the healthy fats and protein it provides. Try one of these 25 Healthy Salmon Recipes next time you’re too exhausted to think about dinner.
9. Watermelon
Packed with B vitamins, hydration power, electrolytes, and naturally occurring sugars, watermelon is a delicious way to wake yourself up. Mix up a watermelon-cucumber slush instead of your afternoon latte.
10. Oats
If all-day energy is what you’re looking for, start out with oatmeal (like these Easy Overnight Oats) in the morning. A little bit of fruit and some nuts and seeds (try almonds, walnuts, hemp hearts or chia seeds) will add just enough sugar, plus slow-burning healthy fats and protein.
This post was medically reviewed by Dr. Kimberly Langdon, M.D., a university-trained obstetrician/gynecologist with 19 years of clinical experience. Learn more about Hello Glow’s medical review board here. As always, this is not personal medical advice and we recommend that you talk with your doctor.
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I found supplements that helped me a lot with energy and they are natural. Can share with you if interested .
Interested
Almonds are not Nuts…
Oats are grains = Not Food!
Good list. I sometimes use a quick stretch. Just standing up and reaching for the sky with both hands- stretching as far as you can. This is great to do even at your desk. Seems to clear the mind!
Great list! I especially love that you included fresh air and vitamin D in your list. Too often we forget about the awesome benefits of nature; thanks for the reminder.
Great list! And so true about trying to detox from coffee – I used to work at a Starbucks and definitely began drinking too much coffee. Hard part is I LOVE it. But like you, I try to stick to one cup a day, maybe two on weekends. But I drink tons of water and do think that helps! :)
I can vouch for water! Definitely feel a lot more awake when i drink water