Introduction
In today’s demanding world, stress is an almost inevitable part of our lives. As a result, a lot of people feel tired and run down. Many have suffered from lack of sleep or skipping meals, both contribute to low energy levels and fatigue.
It is not surprising that supermarket aisles are flooded with energy drinks and food bars to offer people the energy they need while on the go.
Say NO to artificially colored energy drinks
Nowadays, people are bombarded with advertisements that are making big promises about their energy drinks. Oftentimes, they state that their products increase energy and alertness, offer extra nutrition, and promote better concentration.
But don’t be deceived by their flashy packaging because chances are, you’re getting a high dose of caffeine and sugar that may do more harm than good to your body. Most of these product labels contain vitamins and minerals and other amino acids, but this does not mean that they are really good for you.
What is inside an energy drink?
Too much sugar and empty calories: Just like candy, energy drinks contain excessive amounts of sugar that can cause tooth decay and empty calories which contribute to weight gain. Added sugars definitely increase your risk for obesity.
High caffeine content: According to the Food and Drug Administration, caffeinated energy drinks can be potentially fatal. Various studies have found that energy drinks actually contain higher caffeine doses than what is listed on the can.
Poorly researched herbal products: Many mysterious ingredients are also found in different energy drinks, such as guarana, taurine, ginseng and other herbal supplements that are not regulated by the U.S Food and Drug Administration.
Top 5 natural energy drinks that boost your energy
1. Cocolina
Coconut water mixed with spirulina powder. Coconut water is an isotonic drink that has the same concentration of salts and minerals as the body. It has a perfect balance of essential vitamins and minerals such as potassium, sodium, chloride, calcium, iron, bicarbonate, phosphorous, and magnesium.
Spirulina, on the other hand, is a type of microscopic blue-green algae that is packed full of vitamins and minerals. Its level of protein is higher than both meat and soy combined.
Prepare: Coconut water and ½ teaspoon spirulina powder
How to make: In a sports bottle, fill with coconut water and then mix in the spirulina powder. Shake well.
2. Orange Flax Smoothie
Oranges provide an adequate amount of the essential nutrients that are needed by the body. Potassium, magnesium, B-1, B-2, B-3, B-6 and folate, just to name a few. Flax oil, or hempseed oil, contains Alpha-linoleic Acid (ALA), a precursor to the essential omega-3 fatty acids.
Furthermore, it helps slow down the release of fruit sugar into the bloodstream, helping you to retain your energy for a few hours.
Prepare: 5 peeled oranges and 3 tablespoons of cold-pressed flax oil or hempseed oil
How to make: Combine the ingredients in a blender, add about half a cup of cold water, then blend.
3. Banana Wheat Grass Smoothie
Bananas provide you with an abundance of nutrients, while wheat grass is a rich source of protein, potassium, magnesium, and B-complex vitamins.
Prepare: 3 ripe bananas, 2 cups cold water, 1 tablespoon wheat grass powder
How to make: Blend all of the ingredients until smooth. Pour into a covered container and enjoy.
4. Kale and Banana Smoothie
Kale has higher concentration of iron and other minerals. Its iron content is higher than beef, making it referred to as the new beef.
Prepare: 4 ripe bananas, 2 cups cold water, 1 cup ice, 1 small bunch of kale
How to make: Blend all the ingredients until you reach a smooth texture. Add more water for a thinner smoothie.
5. Carrot and Parsley Juice
Parsley has been used to treat various illnesses including kidney stones, urinary tract infections, gastrointestinal disorders, flatulence, indigestion, asthma, fluid retention, anemia, high blood pressure, diabetes, prostate and spleen conditions. It contains vital vitamins such as Vitamin C, B-12, and A.
Prepare: 1 medium-sized carrots, 1 apple, and 1 small bunch of parsley
How to make: Blend together until smooth. Enjoy.
Conclusion
If you are feeling tired and drowsy, reach for these all-natural energy drinks rather than commercial energy drinks. These natural drinks are very easy to make and are way cheaper than Red Bull or Monster beverages.