11 Caffeine-Free Energy Boosters

Caffeinated drinks aren't the only or best ways to get your energy levels up. Here are some effective non-caffeine dependent strategies that you can use to easily raise your energy levels and keep them high throughout the day.

---

1) Water

This one is easy to implement and the effects are almost immediately noticeable. Water is a crucial factor in energy metabolism. Without sufficient water you'll feel sluggish. If you are only getting adequate amounts of water and feel less than sparkly, try adding an extra glass or two.

2) Protein

Protein provides energy without the crash that follows carbohydrate consumption. For good energy levels, as an exerciser, you should aim to get around 70% of your body weight in grams of protein. If you are exercising intensely, this will need to be higher. Eating more frequently may make it easier to meet this requirement.

3) Virgin Coconut Oil

Rich in Medium Chain Triglycerides (MCTs), Coconut oil is used directly by the liver for energy. It also helps optimize thyroid function and hormones which directly impact metabolism and energy levels.

4) Whole, Fresh, Raw Green Vegetables

Your cells require electrolytes, enzymes, minerals and vitamins along with water for energy and proper function. Whole, fresh vegetables are nutrient rich, and high in water and electrolytes which are needed for proper hydration, which facilitates energy production. My favorites: Chard and Beets deliver noticeable, same day effects.

​5) Fiber Rich Carbohydrates

Eat slow digesting carbohydrates (fiber-rich), along with a protein and fat. This has the effect of keeping your blood glucose from rising rapidly and then crashing taking your energy levels with it. Avoid sugar and carbohydrates that convert quickly to sugar when you need to be mentally alert (pasta, pastries, and white flour products); the spike in blood sugar is followed by an insulin response which causes blood sugar and your energy levels to fall.

6) Seaweed

Iodine and selenium found in seaweed provides fuel for the thyroid gland. If you are not a regular fish or seafood eater, and if you are not consuming table salt supplemented with iodine, consider adding kelp flakes to your typical seasonings, consuming seaweed snacks, or, adding seaweed to salads or meals.

7) Brazil Nuts

Selenium-rich Brazil Nuts are good for thyroid function. The best part is that it only takes a few nuts to get the recommended amount. The caveat is that they do need to be fresh.

8) Lemonade with Apple Cider Vinegar

Have a glass of freshly squeezed lemon in water. You can sweeten with a small amount of raw honey or Stevia for taste and spike your punch with a pinch of Cayenne pepper. Adding or even substituting Apple Cider Vinegar for lemon is just as effective - and tastes just as good.

9) Earlier Bedtime

Making sure you are getting enough sleep is an obvious first step when you are trying to address energy issues. However, most people try to tack on extra hours to the end of their sleep time by sleeping in later. Do this when you have to, but studies show that it is more beneficial for the sleep cycle to be in bed by 10:00 PM and to be up by 6:30 AM.

10) AM Exercise

You will benefit from the post workout endorphins and energy boost for the entire day, and you will also sleep better at night. You will also feel more accomplished and focused for hours after as you will have started your day by getting an important task completed.

11) High Energy Playlist

Studies show that mood, energy levels, and exercise performance are improved by listening to fast paced music you enjoy. Take advantage of this when you know you are likely to need a boost, for instance, in the afternoons after lunch.

These tips are great energy boosters that do the job - minus the caffeine crash, and without interfering with a good nights sleep later on.

Try them out and let me know what you think!

#CaffeineFreeEnergyBoost