Having enough energy to get through your day can sometimes be a concern. An afternoon slump at the office can mean a loss of productivity. Fortunately, you don't have to reach for the coffee or some sugar to help you perk up. There are herbs and vitamins that can naturally raise your energy level throughout the day. Ask your doctor about which ones might be right for you.
Fatigue
Fatigue and exhaustion can come from many different sources. The Mayo Clinic website lists unhealthy lifestyle habits such as poor diet, lack of sleep and overwork as possible triggers for fatigue and exhaustion. More serious conditions, such as anemia, kidney or liver diseases, and cancer can also lead to exhaustion. Discussing your health and lifestyle with your doctor can be an excellent way to discover what may be at the root of your fatigue.
Adrenal Adaptogens
The adrenal glands are located on top of each kidney, handling the responsibility of secreting cortisol for the body's stress response. One group of herbal remedies that boosts energy, both physically and mentally, are called adaptogens. Adaptogens help the body handle stress, and are often linked to adrenal function. Chinese and Siberian ginseng are considered adaptogens, and may improve mental and physicial energy. A study published in Current Clinical Pharmacology in September of 2009 demonstrated both ginseng plants' effectiveness in improving endurance and mental fatigue in cases of fatigue and weakness. Rhodiola rosea, also an herbal adaptogen, was included in this study. It improved mental performance and energy levels in fatigue and chronic fatigue syndrome. These substances can be stimulating, so be sure to discuss their use with your doctor, particularly if you have hypertension.
B Vitamins
B vitamins are important in many physiological functions, including red blood cell production, DNA synthesis, nerve cell covering, and the production of important brain neurotransmitters. Vitamin B-6, according to "The Most Effective Natural Cures on Earth," is needed for serotonin, dopamine, and melatonin production. It is also responsible for ensuring the proper metabolism of fats, proteins, and carbohydrates, states Dr. Andrew Weil's website. Low levels of vitamin B-12 can lead to muscle weakness, mental and physical fatigue, and more serious conditions such as anemia, according to "The Most Effective Natural Cures on Earth." Folic acid, or vitamin B-9, works with both B-6 and B-12, and also plays a role in energy levels and mental function, states the book. Adding a B complex to your supplements may be helpful, but too much can be harmful. Be sure to ask your doctor what vitamins are right for you.
Vitamin C
A well-known antioxidant, vitamin C can help to maintain the health of muscles, bones, and the immune system, states drugs.com. The website also says that vitamin C deficiencies can include muscle weakness, bone loss, loose teeth, tiredness, and depression. An article published in Cell Biochemistry and Function in June 2010 states that vitamin C helps to strengthen the antioxidant capacity in athletes, helping to counter free radicals in the body, which can lead to cell breakdown.
Maca
Maca is also called Peruvian ginseng, and is thought to improve energy performance and libido. It was revered in the Incan culture and often given as a prize to warriors, states drugs.com. Although not proved in research, the website says that maca has been used in place of anabolic steroids. It can be used to improve memory, and several studies show its efficacy in sexual enhancement. One such study was published in Andrologia in April of 2009. Maca improved libido and sexual performance in males with erectile dysfunction. Drugs.com cautions its use for people with thyroid disorders, and recommends discussing it with your doctor before beginning.
References
- Mayoclinic.com, Fatigue
- Current Clinical Pharmacology; Evidence-based efficacy of adaptogens in fatigue, and molecular mechanisms related to their stress-protective activity; Panossian, A and Wikman, G; September 2009
- Dr. Andrew Weil's Website, Vitamin B6
- “The Most Effective Natural Cures on Earth”; Bowden, J, Ph.D., C.N.S.; 2008
- Drugs.com, Vitamin C
Member Comments