Energy is delivered to the body through the foods we eat and liquids we drink but also from the breath. Yogic and Chinese systems talk about the subtle energy of life as ‘prana’ or ‘chi’ that we can take in and enhance through the breath, sunlight and certain movements – so if you are feeling sluggish, taking some deep breaths outside or by an open window, with some gentle stretches can immediately boost your energy levels.
Our metabolism is the chemical reactions in our body cells that change food into energy that is called ATP (Adenosine Triphosphate). This complicated process requires digestive enzymes, oxygen, water and vitamins A, B, C, E & K. Sufficient hydration is also crucial in maintaining good energy levels.
All foods will provide us with energy, but they yield varying quality for sustained levels. Glucose is the type of sugar that our cells use for fuel. However, how we metabolise the glucose and the source of the glucose is important. Refined foods such as white sugar, white bread and white pasta spike our blood sugar levels which can imbalance our insulin and energy levels. For sustained energy it is best not to consume highly refined sugary foods, but rather those with good levels of protein, fats, complex carbs and fibre.
A Vitamin B12 deficiency (40% of people are estimated to be B12 deficient) can lead to extreme tiredness and lack of energy. Iron deficiency can also lead to tiredness and fatigue.
So what do people do when they lack energy? Most reach for sugary foods, which lead to spikes and crashes in blood sugar and energy levels. Caffeine is a drug used to by many to boost energy but its overuse can lead to restlessness, shakiness, insomnia, headaches, dizziness, fast heart rate, dehydration, anxiety and dependency – we think there is a better way for sustained energy.
And that is where All You Need comes in! Designed to provide you with sustained levels of energy in its balance of protein, fats, carbohydrate, fibre, digestive enzymes and therapeutic levels of ‘energy’ vitamins such as B12 and minerals such as magnesium – All You Need, especially added to a super smoothie, is a great way to boost your levels of sustained energy through the whole day.
Energy smoothie
1 glass of filtered water or plant milk Optimum hydration is a key to energy1 banana Bananas contain three natural sugars – sucrose, fructose and glucose and they are also rich in fibre that help slow the digestion of that sugar. Bananas also contain nutrients like potassium and magnesium that help the body feel full of energy.3 dates Dates are high in natural sugars, offering a burst of instant energy that can last the whole day. They have good levels of fibre, iron and folate so our especially good for female libido.Handful of fresh greens Dark leafy greens are rich in vitamins A, C, E, and K as well as the B-vitamins essential to converting food into usable energy. They are also high in iron that may correct a deficiency that might be causing lack of energy.2 tbs All You Need Superfoods Superfoods ingredients such as maca, ashwaganda and beetroot have all been shown to boost energy levels as well as All You Needs broad range of nutrients to support fantastic energy levels.½ cup ice Blend and serve.Electromagnetic radiation is growing in our environment. Too much screen time can be draining – so when you can, get away from the computer, mobile phone and wifi – and ground yourself in nature. This can really help re-set your nervous system and energy.
Finally, to have great energy levels – we have to remember our body is like a battery. You need to recharge your body battery with rest, relaxation and good sleep – so that when you need to go go go – your battery is fully charged.
