Eight Caffeine-Free Energy Boosts
Jan
23Posted in [12 Days to a Better 2012], [General Health] By LifeWayKefir LifeWayKefir
1/23/2012 11:35 AM
We love coffee as much as the next guy, don’t get us wrong. We did, after all, bring Cappuccino Kefir into the world (although that is technically decaf.) But for a long-lasting boost of energy without the caffeine withdrawals, we have a few other suggestions. Check out these eight caffeine-free energy boosts!
1. Quinoa (pronounced keen-wah or kee-NOH-uh) is a super nutritious seed that tastes like a grain. High in protein, and higher in calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, potassium, copper, manganese, iron, and zinc than wheat, it offers a boost of energy with every bite. Eat it in the morning with almonds and honey, just like oatmeal, or cook it with chicken or veggie stock and serve it for dinner in place of rice. Left over quinoa topped with veggie chili is one of our favorite high-fiber, high-protein lunches, too!
2. Lentils are another high-fiber, high-protein food that will keep you going without caffeine jitters. Unlike beans, dry lentils don’t require pre-soaking, so they’re ready to eat in under a half hour. Try them cold with fresh chopped veggies and a vinegar dressing for lunch, or serve them hot, mixed with rice for a power-packed dinner.
3. Herbs and spices can offer a quick pick-me-up any time of day. Add fresh ginger or garlic to your meal to help with digestion and perhaps to even keep your heart healthy. If you’ve ever had issues with digestion you know how sluggish that can make you feel – and the pep in your step you gain when those issues go away! Do some research on other herbs and spices and you’ll find that tasty accents like cinnamon and oregano can help do everything from lower blood pressure to combat Candida (yeast,) all of which can make you feel more energetic.
4. Kefir ranks high on our list of energy-boosting foods, which shouldn’t come as a big surprise. With 12 live and active cultures in every serving, kefir supports a healthy digestive system and boosts immunity. Try it in the morning with fresh fruit, over granola, or straight up and you might even find yourself skipping your daily latte all together. For a boost in the afternoon, try our Frozen Kefir – all the benefits of Kefir fabulously frozen.
5. Water might seem like a no-brainer, but so many people aren’t drinking enough! A nice cold glass of water can really wake you up and make you feel refreshed when you’re feeling sluggish. If you’re at work, you’ll get the added benefit of getting up and stretching your legs as you make your way to the water cooler.
6. Lavender – forget stop and smell the roses, the scent of lavender has been proven to boost alertness. If you can’t light a candle at work, try keeping a sachet of lavender in your drawer. Similarly, the scent of citrus can also give you a boost. Keep grapefruit-scented lotion on hand for a caffeine-free eye opener whenever you need it.
7. Light exercise can go a long way to strengthen your heart and increase your energy. If you don’t have time to hit the gym first thing in the morning, try taking short breaks throughout your day to stand up and stretch. Take the long way to the water cooler or the rest room. An after-work walk around the block might be just the thing you need to muster the energy to make dinner and help the kids with their homework.
8. Laugh more. Laughter isn’t just the best medicine; it’s also a great kick start for a sleepy brain. Make a point of looking up your favorite comedian on YouTube, subscribe to a daily joke email list, or exchange text messages with your funniest uncle every day. Not only will a good laugh stimulate your mind, but you look cute when you smile!
Still drinking your kefir every day as part of our 12 day challenge? What are your other favorite energy-boosting tips?
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