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Discover how Energy is Made and what you can do to get your Levels Soaring

All around me I see grey, drained faces and the latest office accessory seems to be a shredded tissue clutched in the palm of the hand. But the question remains; weighed down by our sluggish bodies and our red noses, how do we get our energy levels back up?

Author: Sandra Prior
Date: Apr 30, 2010 - 8:00:13 AM

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It's winter, and I don't know about the rest of you, but my energy levels are sapped. All around me I see grey, drained faces and the latest office accessory seems to be a shredded tissue clutched in the palm of the hand. But the question remains; weighed down by our sluggish bodies and our red noses, how do we get our energy levels back up?

 

Energy is the driving force of life and yet this physical (and mental) power can be broadly defined as a simple mathematical equation.

 

The foods we eat consist mainly of carbohydrates, proteins and fats, which in turn act as fuel for our bodies. Through a series of complex chemical reactions, dependent on vitamins and minerals (macronutrients) these foods are transformed into cellular energy.

 

The molecule of cellular energy is known as adenosine triphosphate or (ATP) and the energy conversion process takes place in the mitochondria, the power generators in every cell.

 

As the food in our cells are oxidized, the released energy forms more ATP, so our stocks constantly need to be replenished from the food we eat. For this process to be completed, the correct chain of events needs to take place.

 

Without the correct raw materials, fuel cannot be manufactured, and the body's mechanisms slow down. In a nutshell, your body needs food with macronutrients to create enough fuel to supply your body with the essential basics for energy production.

 

It all seems so simple, so why then are our batteries running on empty?

 

Energy Tappers

 

Stress is one of the biggest lifestyle-based factors responsible for draining your energy. Stress leaves its mark on your body, mind and emotions, and unless managed, will eventually overwhelm you, manifesting in various physical, mental and emotional symptoms. Experiencing stressful events increases the release of adrenaline and cortisol. These are secreted by the adrenal glands lying on top of the kidneys.

 

The stress reaction is the basic survival fight-or-flight response to ensure our survival from physical threats. This stress reaction is fuel intensive, using most of the vitamins and minerals in the body to drive the enzyme reactions necessary for the survival response. Among these are magnesium, calcium and the B-group vitamins, all vital micronutrients needed for your body's energy metabolism. A deficiency creates a break in the cycle, compromising energy production. Even a mild micronutrient deficiency can put you at a higher risk of not being able to cope with the necessary daily stresses and strains.

 

Poor diet: You literally become what you eat. Healthy eating is essential for energy conservation. The daily stresses and strains are fuel intensive. In order for our bodies to function optimally, we need to eat nutritious foods. The mind and soul cannot soar if the body is not functioning at peak metabolic performance level.

 

Just as your car would stutter and splutter if you put the wrong petrol in the tank, so your own system reacts to the 'wrong' foods. And while you can pump vitamin and mineral supplements into your system, if you don't eat properly your system cannot run smoothly.

 

Our bodies are made up of living cells. Our skin renews itself daily. Our brain constantly buzzes. Our bones, nails and hair grow and our cells regenerate continuously.

 

The quality of these processes are dependent on the food we put into our bodies. Our brains, perhaps the most sensitive of all our organs, need a comprehensive and varied smorgasbord of nutrients in order to function properly. Junk and processed foods, those rich in fat and sugar, as well as caffeine and alcohol, ultimately result in a tired body and brain. If you don't feel refreshed when you wake up, or hit a mid-afternoon slump, your body is signaling that your energy levels are running on low and need a boost.

 

Stimulants also put pressure on your liver and your body's detoxification process, thereby draining you of more energy. Experts recommend milk thistle to help your liver detox and cope during stressful times. They also advise maintaining constant blood sugar levels - it's a most effective energy revitalizer. Low blood sugar is an energy drainer. Eat regular, small meals to prevent low blood sugar with its symptoms (irritability, lack of concentration, fatigue, weakness, headache, nausea) that mimic the stress response.

 

Nutrients from your foods are absorbed through the gut, assimilated in the liver and utilized by every cell for whatever its requirements are. There is a constant balance between energy generated from these basic nutritious molecules and stored energy being released for cell utilization. Utilized energy has to be constantly replenished through the food we eat.

 

Not enough water: While food is vital, water is just as important for your body. Two-thirds of our bodies are made up of water, and each day we lose approximately two litres through normal bodily functions. The right amount of water is essential and almost every activity our inner machinery undertakes involves the use of water. It's easy to dehydrate our bodies. We are so busy in our daily lives that we simply forget to replenish this basic resource. Drink at least six to eight glasses of water each day. (You can also substitute the water with herbal tea mixtures.) Having a glass or bottle of water on your desk or in your car will act as a reminder. Remember to sip, not gulp.

 

Fatigue: It is impossible to maintain your optimal energy levels without adequate sleep. Ideally you should sleep between six and eight hours a night. Just one night's lack of sleep can affect your energy levels, and long-term sleep deprivation can manifest as a number of physical and mental symptoms, including impaired judgment, poor decision-making and incoherent rambling. Good sleeping habits have a direct correlation with good health.

Sandra Prior runs her own bodybuilding website at http://bodybuild.rr.nu

View all articles by Sandra Prior

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