Tired of fighting fatigue? What do you normally reach for when you feel sluggish or lethargic? ‘Something to eat’ is not the best answer. Now, if you had said a tall glass of water or even a pillow, you would be on the right track! Hydration and Rest are vital for your health and well-being. They are two of the key ingredients to feeling and performing your best.
Staying hydrated will keep you energized and may help you shed weight–even mild dehydration can slow metabolism. Every single cell in your body needs water. Water transports nutrients and oxygen to your body cells and removes waste products. We recommend that you avoid drinking too many artificially sweetened beverages. Even though they are low in calories, they may interfere with your brain’s signals, prompting you to eat more. If you don’t like the taste of plain water, try adding sliced citrus fruits or cucumber for some flavor.
Drinking enough fluids is one of the simplest ways to keep energized and stay focused. A study of healthy individuals found that 92% felt fatigued after limiting fluids and water-rich foods for 15 hours; they also had lapses in memory and reported difficulty concentrating. When it comes to maintaining your energy, select meals and snacks that are rich in water, such as fresh produce or protein drinks.
The average person loses about 10 cups of water through daily activities. Your actual needs will vary based on climate, diet and activity. Have you replenished your system today?
Sleep, or more likely the lack of it, is sometimes responsible for our lack of energy. Your body counts on being able to restore balance to your hunger hormones and other systems as you sleep each night. When this doesn’t happen, your ghrelin and leptin stores may not be providing the proper signals to your brain, causing you to overeat.
You have probably noticed that it’s harder to make good choices when you’re tired. You may talk yourself out of going to exercise class or taking a walk when you get home from work. Dinner may sound like too much of a chore and you find yourself at your old drive-through favorite.
Establish a regular sleep schedule. This will strengthen your body’s circadian rhythm and help you get the rest that you need each night.
Don’t let your defenses get down. Arm yourself with plenty of water and a good night’s sleep. You’ll be ready to take on the day!
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Cat Keller has a wealth of experience in marketing, e-marketing, advertising and customer service and manages our Weight Loss Nutritional Store. She is always planning something fun and exciting. special events, discounts, giveaways – it’s never a dull moment. She is happy to help you with questions you may have regarding our products or services. Cat is a graduate of William & Mary, where she studied Government/Pre-Law and minored in Marketing.