Some might ask, “Will using energy supplements do any good?” The answer is yes. Once in a while, people will need an extra boost of energy, and that’s when vitamins and supplements come into play. Not everyone is entitled to a balanced diet or regular exercise. Maintaining low-stress levels, getting enough exercise, eating a balanced diet, and getting enough sleep at night is a sure way of gaining adequate energy levels. Some people are occupied by their work-life and have no time to sort out their diet or draft an exercise timetable. For these reasons, energy supplements nutritionists recommend energy supplements. Below are some of the most effective energy supplements for higher energy levels.
Ashwagandha
Anxiety, stress, and depression are some of the leading causes of fatigue and low energy. People affected by this are also unable to function effectively in their daily lives. Many might not know, but keeping a positive attitude can boost your health and keep you energized for longer. Ashwagandha is an adaptogen that has been employed to boost energy for thousands of years. Adaptogen refers to plant-derived alkaloids that help the body manage stress and anxiety. Studies have shown that participants who used Ashwagandha root extract reported a reduction in stress and anxiety levels and cortisol. It was also found that Ashwagandha is safe and tolerable by the human body. Another study shows that Ashwagandha increased endurance levels during exercise.
Coenzyme Q10
Shortened as CoQ10. This is an enzyme occurs naturally in the body, especially in the heart, liver, pancreas, and kidneys. It is also an antioxidant that strengthens the immune system and improves energy. Studies have shown that there’s always a link between fatigue and low levels of CoQ10. This means lower levels of coenzyme Q10 causes loss of energy and fatigue. You can gain coenzyme Q10 by including these foods in your diet; liver and other organ meats, whole grains, and oily fish. If eating these doesn’t work for you, you can go for CoQ10 supplements. But before you do, make sure you meet with your doctor. CoQ10 supplements might affect those using other drugs like insulin, blood thinners, and those receiving cancer treatment. Meet with your doctor for your safety. Recorded side effects of CoQ10 includes; rash, diarrhea, and insomnia.
Vitamin D
A common deficiency of vitamin D is muscle fatigue. Studies have shown that over 50% of the world’s population suffer from vitamin D deficiency. The deficiency worsens with certain conditions, including old age, darker skin, colder climate, less exposure to the sun, and obesity. Another study showed that when those suffering from the deficiency received treatment with vitamin D, there was a significant increase in muscle efficiency. Another review shows that more than 400 obese people received 20,000 to 40,000 units of vitamin D weekly. Over a year, depression and anxiety symptoms were eliminated completely compared to those in a placebo group.
B vitamins
B vitamins are known to help create energy in cells. Deficiency in B vitamins leads to fatigue. Vegetarians and older adults are at higher risk of vitamin B-12 deficiency because it is only present in animal products or fortified foods. B-12 deficiency can also cause anemia, which causes low energy. Before any activity, athletes take vitamin B supplements to boost their energy and performance, but there is little study to back up this claim. Asking a doctor can be of great help.
Creatine
This is a type of amino acid naturally occurring in seafood and red meat. Creatine supplements help increase creatine levels in the body, which increases the level of creatine in the muscles and level of endurance and performance during exercise. Studies have reviewed creatine to do more than just improving performance for high-intensity exercises, it also improves recovery, helps prevent sport induced injuries, and reduces the risk of heat-related illness like dehydration. The same study showed that both long and short term use of creatine is completely safe and tolerable for healthy people of all ages.
Iron
Having less iron in the body than required leads to low energy levels and fatigue. There is a particular set of people that are at higher risk of having iron deficiency. Such people include; those that are menstruating, pregnant, or breastfeeding mothers and those who donate blood regularly. You can gain iron from leafy greens. Iron supplements are also able to feed you your required iron.
L-theanine
This is also a naturally occurring amino acid that is commonly found in tea. A combination of L-theanine and caffeine increases energy and cognitive performance. Several studies have proved its efficiency.
Energy supplements are mostly healthy but can cause mild side effects in some individuals. If this occurs, stop using, and based on the severity of the side effects, visit a doctor.