Vitamins & Herbs for Energy
It is very easy to become tired---stress, hard work, heavy diets and lack of exercise---all contribute to feelings of exhaustion. Yet, it is sometimes difficult to proactively switch to a more energetic lifestyle. Increase your energy with water, fresh vegetables, fruits and whole foods, and then add vitamins and herbs to help increase your energy.
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B Vitamins
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The B vitamins---B1, B2, B6 and B12, and also biotin, folic acid, niacin, and pantothenic acid---increase the body's energy. Natural food sources include leafy green vegetables, whole grains and sweet potatoes.
Iron, Potassium and Iodine
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Increase your body's energy with iron, potassium and iodine, because low levels lead to fatigue. Food sources of iron, potassium and iodine include leafy green vegetables, celery and seaweed, respectively.
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Green Tea
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Green tea (Camellia sinesis) helps the body burn its fat stores, which boosts its energy. It also contains moderate levels of caffeine, which will give an immediate energy boost.
Ginseng
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Ginseng (Panax ginseng, L. or Panax quinquefolius, L.) increases energy levels when taken in moderation. It supports insulin's conversion of blood sugar into fuel for energy.
Schisandra
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Schisandra (Schisandra chinensis) is a Traditional Chinese herb that boosts the body's energy levels. According to the Iowa State University's Food and Nutrition website, Schisandra helps to strengthen the immune system and has positive effects on the brain, liver and kidneys.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit Duchamp/Flickr.com
