Top 5 Natural Supplements to Boost Energy
We all crave energy to match up with our high-paced lifestyle. When our energy levels dip, it becomes obvious to reach out for a sugary can of soda or simply drink an extra cup of coffee or two. The only problem in relying on these sugary-drinks for a daily boost can be problematic for your health.
Several studies indicate this as a potential link between obesity and sugary drinks and soda. This certainly is not surprising when you consider that a 20 ounce soda contains 15-18 teaspoons of sugar and around 240 calories. Also, large amounts of caffeine can cause a jittery sensation in people who are sensitive to its effects.
On the plus side, there are healthier and safer ways to boost energy levels. Let’s take a look.
1. CoQ10 (Coenzyme Q10)
CoQ10 occurs naturally in our body. It is created in the liver and in the mitochondria of our cells. Coenzyme Q10 plays a key role in the production of 95% of the body’s energy production at the cellular level. Acting as a powerful antioxidant, Qunol CoQ10 lowers the amounts of free radicals in the body. This is important because free radicals can cause damage our cells.
CoQ10 level in blood is at its peak between the ages of 19 and 21. This drops to 65% by the age of 80. Stress and aging can reduce body’s natural production of CoQ10. Also, the use of Statin drugs used to reduce cholesterol can also lead to decreased amounts of CoQ10. As CoQ10 level drops in the body, feelings of tiredness and dullness are likely to set in. The amount of CoQ10 found in foods is minimal and so Qunol Supplements become the best way to boost your CoQ10 levels and energy.
CoQ10 as supplements create a larger portion of supplements segment. It is also available in the form of capsules, liquid and adult gummies. The key to choose right CoQ10 supplement that works, relies in the choice of one with gets readily absorbed in the body. Brands like Qunol offer high absorption, superior absorption and soluble forms of all natural CoenzymeQ10 supplements.
2. Melatonin
Melatonin supplements are often sold as a sleep aid. In addition to that, melatonin is needed for proper energy metabolism in the body. People with low melatonin levels are more prone to suffer from fatigue.
Seasonal changes, in particularly the longer periods of darkness during the winter, can affect the melatonin production. This leads to increased feelings of sleepiness. Natural aging can also contribute to decreased melatonin production. This is the reason why we see older adults experience fatigue more often, as they create very little melatonin on their own.
Brands like Natrol, Schiff and Olympian labs offer melatonin supplements in various forms such as tablet, capsule and liquid.
3. Iodine
Thyroid gland plays an important role in the production of energy. This is regulated by the hormones T3 and T4. Thyroid gland uses iodine to make these hormones. Low levels of iodine can lead to fatigue and hypothyroidism.
Many people decrease their table salt (which is generally iodized) intake, due to high blood pressure and other health related issues. One can include seafood, sea vegetables such as seaweed and kombu, and dark leafy greens like kale and spinach to add Iodine intake. Iodine can also be taken in supplement form (as per your doctor’s recommendations). Brands like Life-Flo Health Care offers Liquid Iodine to support healthy thyroid function and keep you energized.
4. Magnesium
Magnesium supports our nerves, brain, and muscles. It also plays a vital role in the production of energy in our cells. This important mineral intake however is found to be below recommended levels in the U.S. population (400-420 mg/day for men and 310-320 mg/day for women).
Green leafy vegetables, unrefined grains, legumes, beans, and nuts are dietary sources rich in Magnesium. A large kale or spinach salad bowl with garbanzo beans and toasted walnuts can be a treat!
In addition to this, magnesium also helps energy synthesis by is the vital role it plays in absorption of Vitamin B12.
5. Vitamin B12
Vitamin B12 is crucial for our cells to create energy. It also helps our bodies to make red blood cells. Vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to a type of anaemia (decrease in red blood cells). This directly contributes to fatigue, shortness of breath, and can even lead to serious health complications.
As Vitamin B12 is not produced naturally in the body, it must come from our diet or as vitamin supplements. Dietary sources of vitamin B12 include meat, poultry, shellfish, dairy products, and eggs. If you avoid animal products in your diet, you can add fortified foods, nutritional yeast, or supplements.
A lot of people may not be aware of this, but getting your vitamin B12 levels checked is a good idea if you are dealing with fatigue, especially if you are older.
Also Read: All You Need To Know About Coenzyme Q10
It may be normal to feel tired once in a while, but drinking multiple cups of coffee or sugary soda are not the healthy way to boost energy. Certain nutrient deficiencies can also add to ongoing fatigue. Fortunately, there are a variety of natural choices available that may help improve the energy levels.
