Boosting Your Energy When at Work

Keeping your energy up throughout the workday is important in reducing the risk of injury or illness. When tired, workers have impaired motor skills, reduced decision-making capacity, and poor memory and information processing. If you can barely keep your eyes open during the workday or have a hard time making it through the dreaded afternoon slump, some simple changes to your diet and habits can help improve your energy level.

What Do You Grab For A Boost of Energy?

One quick fix many are guilty of grabbing is an energy drink. Energy drinks contain large doses of caffeine and sugar along with other stimulants that provide a quick rush but are usually followed by an energy crash, leading to fatigue. Additionally, energy drinks cause an immediate increase in heart rate but can lead to chronic health conditions.

Ongoing use of energy drinks may cause:

• Heart arrhythmias
• Chronic headaches
• High blood pressure
• Diabetes
• Heart disease

In place of energy drinks, consider beverages with lower amounts of caffeine such as a cup of coffee, tea, or protein shake. Pairing that with a healthy alternative can increase energy and concentration without the health risks.

What Can You Do to Increase Energy Levels Safely?

In addition to making healthy choices with diet, there are several activities that are natural energy boosters.

1. Stay Hydrated: There is no doubt that water is the best way to stay hydrated. Other sources of hydration include fruits, veggies, and meat.
2. Exercise Regularly: When you exercise regularly, your sleep quality improves, your stress levels are reduced, and your heart is trained to work more efficiently, getting more oxygen to the brain and other organs.
3. Try to Sleep for 7 to 8 Hours per Night: Good sleep not only increases energy but also improves concentration and productivity.
4. Eat a Snack with both Protein and Carbohydrates: A complex snack of both protein and carbs provides more energy along with keeping your appetite in check and helping to stop sugar cravings.
5. Take Microbreaks Throughout the Workday: Taking 30-second breaks every 30 minutes will help keep your energy levels up and provide relief from strain on certain body parts.

Being tired at work can be tough. Using the above strategies can help you safely fight off fatigue. For more strategies for improving the health and wellness of your workforce, sign-up for our free PRO Learn Educational Series for electronic monthly resources by clicking the button below.