Originally published October 23 2010
Try Natural Energy Boosters that Last
by Danna Norek
(NaturalNews) Energy is something that we all feel a little short on from time to time. It's a good thing that there are a myriad of natural energy boosters that we can eat, drink, or take as a supplement to help us be peak performers all day long.
The trick with energy boosters is that you don't want to over do it and be kept awake all night. For this reason, true nervous system stimulants like caffeine may not be the way to go. Instead, try choosing nutrient rich, long lasting, and steadily released energy boosters like spirulina, yerba mate, panax ginseng or maca.
Spirulina, the first on the list, is a blue-green algae that is not only great for enhancing energy, but it also is packed with vitamins and nutrients. Spirulina contains high quantities of beta carotene, a powerful antioxidant, and GLA, which may be helpful in weight management.
In addition, it contains several essential amino acids, minerals, vitamins and fiber. Spirulina may be purchased in liquid, tablet, or powder form. A great way to garner the energy enhancing benefits of spirulina is to add some powder to a fruit smoothie for an extra energy and nutrient boost.
Next is yerba mate. Affectionately referred to by frequent drinkers as just plain "mate", this tea-like drink is packed with antioxidants. It can be taken like coffee, but most prefer to simply sweeten its sometimes-bitter-taste to take the edge off. Mate is known for it's ability to give an even boost in energy without the jitters, like coffee is known to do.
It also has been touted to help with cognitive abilities and focus. Mate drinkers frequently praise it for its "smooth energy", while simultaneously promoting a peace of mind and a sense of well being. It is also favored over coffee because it usually does not cause the rapid energy drop after wearing off, like other energy boosters do.
Ginseng is another great energy booster. Panax ginseng is the type that provides the greatest energy, although it is often thought that all types of ginseng provide energy support. It has multiple other benefits that have been discovered as well, although energy enhancement is still what it is primarily known and used for.
There are other health benefits that may be enjoyed from the use of panax ginseng that should not be overlooked. Early studies have shown it may benefit cognitive abilities such as memory and focus, and it has even been studied for its reported blood sugar stabilizing abilities.
Different types of ginseng, including panax, are also known to have antioxidant properties in the human body and may also boost your immune system.
Lastly is maca, a root that originates in Peru and is also known as Peruvian ginseng. This, like many of the other natural energy boosters, provides not only an increase in energy and stamina, but it also has other interesting properties.
Maca is often used to increase libido, calm stress and relieve insomnia. It has also been reported to boost testosterone levels, which probably explains its libido enhancement use. Maca is often found in powdered form, and this nutritious powder can be added to smoothies, shakes and drinks, or it may even be sprinkled over food or included in recipes.
Sources :
http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/166...
http://www.luckyvitamin.com/p-12148-futurebi...
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/...
http://pixiemate.com/what.html
http://www.alive.com/6811a17a2.php?subject_b...
About the author
Danna Norek is the owner and primary contributor for several natural health blogs and websites, where she frequently shares her experiences and knowledge on herbal supplements, natural remedies, vitamins, and healthy lifestyle habits. You can find information on a 100% natural, chemical free deodorant here at Natural Effective Deodorant and an all natural sebum-neutralizing, SLS, paraben and chemical free Acne Soap with lavender, lemongrass and tea tree essential oils here at All Natural Acne Soap.
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