Covenant Health System Dietitian Gives Tips to Stay Energized Throughout the Day

Ever wonder why even when you’re getting enough sleep, some days you have less energy than other days? Certain aspects of your daily life can be the reason behind your low-energy days. Jennifer Scaramuzzo, M.S., R.D., L.D., an outpatient dietitian at the Covenant LifeStyle Centre, discusses some simple ways to keep your energy level up all day.

• Eat more often. Eat a small balanced meal every three to four hours. This will help keep your blood sugar up so you don’t have an energy crash. Each meal should include some protein, carbohydrates and healthy fats.
• Drink more water. Staying hydrated is one of the easiest ways to keep you energized and help you stay focused. Try to drink some water every couple of hours so you don’t feel thirsty and get tired.
• Take a short walk. A 10-minute walk can give you an energy boost that will last for the rest of the day. According to a study presented to the American Heart Association, women who walked briskly for 10 minutes a day experienced an 18 percent increase in their energy levels after six months.
• Eat what your kids eat. Pack the same lunch you send with your kids for yourself. Eating potassium and magnesium filled foods, like a peanut butter sandwich and some fruits or vegetables, at lunch will provide your body with minerals that aid in producing energy.
• Crank up the tunes. A recent study reported employees who listened to music while they worked were 10 percent more productive. When you feel an energy slump coming on, consider turning on some music to keep you awake and focused.

Experiencing an energy crash halfway through the work day is not an uncommon event. Having a consistent sleep schedule, as well as paying attention to your body’s needs and considering some of the above tips, Scaramuzzo says, will help keep you energized and focused throughout the work day.