As far as age goes, however, it is part of the process. Humans produce less energy at the cellular level as they get older. Chronic illness is also more common with age. But these issues don’t tell the whole story.
The small choices you make every day, as insignificant as they seem, can play a big role in energy levels. Let’s take a look at some of the habits that could be stopping you from feeling energized and living your best life.
Sitting around too much: Sitting often leads to more sitting, and it can drain your energy right into the sofa.
Too many inactive hours in the day results in lost muscle, which means fewer mitochondria and ATP, two major players in energy levels.
On the other hand, being physically active can help build and strengthen muscle so your body uses energy more efficiently and you can feel energized longer. Activity also stimulates energy-producing chemicals in the brain.
Give yourself a little test. Tomorrow morning or afternoon when you feel like you’re drained, go for a walk. Pay attention to how you feel afterward.
High Stress: Chronic stress – regularly feeling stressed – can also suck your energy levels. One way it drains energy is by producing a hormone called cortisol. Cortisol reduces ATP and boosts inflammation, both of which knock down energy.
Exercise can be a great stress management skill, as can yoga, tai chi, or mindfulness.
Food choices: Your body needs nourishment to stay energized. Vitamins and minerals produce ATP and promote efficient use. But eating too much processed food, that is low in nutrition, can have the opposite effect. It can lead to inflammation that drains energy and hampers ATP.
Nutrient-dense whole foods like fruit, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help maximize ATP production and energy.
Not enough sleep: It’s a no-brainer that sleep play a role in energy. But it does so in several ways. Aside from keeping you tired and groggy, poor sleep promotes cortisol production and inflammation.
Too little water: Make the right fluid choices during the day to stay energized. Water keeps you energized, while sugary drinks can promote inflammation and drain energy. Too much alcohol or caffeine can also impair sleep, which can influence energy.
These lifestyle habits could be robbing you of the energy you have to enjoy your life to the fullest. Try making a few changes and you’ll likely begin to see an improvement in energy levels.