Tired of being a caffeine addict? We are too.
In a world dominated by Starbucks and sleep deprivation, it might slip your mind that caffeine is not our only source of energy. There are lots of natural, healthier ways to receive that jolt of energy to keep us going. Here are our favorite tips and tricks for staying alert and energized.
Foods
Chia seeds:
- Full of protein and fiber, but low in carbohydrates, chia seeds boost your energy without spiking your blood sugar. Avoid the midday crash! Skip the sugary snacks and grab some chia seed pudding instead.
Oranges:
- Energy drinks like Monster or Red Bull give you an aggressive jolt of artificial energy that barely lasts long enough to make it through class, but oranges are a really easy way to get sustainable and natural energy that can give you the perfect boost for late nights at Club Richter.
Dark Chocolate:
- Eating chocolate releases endorphins, which provide an energized, happy feeling (it’s the same stuff that’s released when you work out). We recommend dark chocolate over milk chocolate because it’s lower in fat and sugar content.
Cayenne Pepper:
- Definitely the spiciest way to kick your tired feeling in the butt, cayenne pepper contains capsaicin, which gives you a surge of natural alertness. Cayenne pepper also heats up your body and increases your metabolism, making it an excellent aid in weight loss!
Drinks
Water
- It sounds like it’s too good to be true, but water is the most effective way to naturally boost your energy. Dehydration can leave you feeling very blah and drained. Pro Tip: try to track your daily water intake and set goals for yourself; it’s a lot easier to drink the recommended eight cups a day when you’re keeping track of it.
Activities
Stretching and Yoga
- Sitting in class all day can cause your muscles to stiffen up and your brain to get fuzzy. Try to stand up and stretch every 30 minutes to keep your mind and body moving. Improved circulation increases memory retention, and we could all use the little mental break that stretching provides.
DIY Energy Drinks
The Fire Hydrant
- 8 oz. filtered water
- 1 slice of lemon
- Pinch of cayenne pepper (approx. 1/16 tsp)
This simple drink literally is a glass a water, a slice of lemon and a pinch of pepper. The lemon and cayenne add the zest you need to kick start your day, and the water will help you keep hydrated and healthy.
The Chill-Zone
- 2 cups of coconut water
- ¼ cup of lime juice
- ¼ cup of lemon juice
- 1/8 teaspoon of sea salt
- 2 tablespoons of honey
Coconut water is a classic refreshment, especially in Miami where we have coconuts literally falling from the sky. To make this energizing treat, blend lime and lemon juice with the coconut water then add the salt and honey. Blend until the honey is dissolved and enjoy your treat!
Cranberry Bomb
- 3 cups unsweetened cranberry juice (100 percent juice)
- 5 cups water
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
As a viable option for sports drinks, the cranberry bomb is made by the one step process of mixing the ingredients, we know you don’t want to exert any more energy after working out.
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