Your daily life is probably filled with various responsibilities – preparing breakfast, walking a dog, sending your kids to school, commuting from your home to work, attending meetings, or responding to never-ending emails. In this case, going through the day without coffee or caffeinated drinks may seem impossible, as it may require a lot of energy.
In general, there is nothing wrong with having a cup of joe here and there, but excessive consumption of this caffeinated drink may have some disadvantages. It has been shown to increase blood pressure, suppress appetite and when you develop tolerance it loses its effectiveness. Not to mention, buying that big cup of latte or cappuccino costs extra money.
So the next time you feel a little drained and need a quick midday boost, try one of these alternatives. You may even find that they work better than your coffee!
Water
Usually, midday tiredness cannot be eliminated with caffeine alone. While coffee or any other caffeinated drink can give you the needed energy to keep up with your demands all day long, a simple caffeine alternative like plain water should also be one of your options.
For instance, if you are experiencing mild dehydration and struggling with fatigue, your energy levels become low and in turn, negatively affect your productivity at work or any other activity you are doing. Therefore, remember to drink plenty of water to boost your energy levels afterward. Also, if you want to avoid an energy gap during the day, make sure to start with a glass of water mixed with some lemon.
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Exercise
Regular physical activity has no drawbacks. When you engage in exercise, you boost blood flow and oxygen levels in the brain.
Which stimulate your muscles and release feel-good endorphins that can last up to several hours after you finish your workout. And don’t worry – it doesn’t have to be particularly long or intense – any kind of stretching exercise, even right at your desk, is enough to start seeing beneficial effects.
Also, taking your exercise outside can bring added benefits such as decreased stress, increased creativity, and happiness. In fact, 20-minutes of walking might be just as effective as consuming caffeine to improve energy. So, instead of reaching for the fourth cup of joe, consider heading outside for a walk, brisk jog, or any other activity of your choice to clear your mind and wake up your body.
Regular Breaks
Think about how much time you spend at your work desk typing away, making calls, reading emails, and even eating lunch! While in common work culture working through breaks seems completely normal, it is crucial to spend a few minutes each day away from the workplace.
To restore energy and fully recharge, you need a real break, which implies a complete cessation of all types of work! During your frequent breaks, try to do something you personally enjoy like meditation, or just do nothing at all without worrying about any of your work tasks and responsibilities.
CBD Oil
If you are suffering from midday tiredness, this all-natural supplement can also come in handy, providing the energy you need and improving your general wellbeing.
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CBD (stands for cannabidiol) is a chemical substance that is thought to interact with certain receptors located all over the body as part of the cell-signaling endocannabinoid system.
This system is involved in many important bodily processes. These include immune response, sleep, memory, appetite, pain, and stress. It is also responsible for maintaining homeostasis. The use of CBD oil has been linked to positive effects on the system, usually resulting in decreased anxiety, better concentration, lower pain levels, and improved sleep.
What’s more, CBD oil comes in a wide variety of formats, from traditional tinctures and capsules to mouth-watering edibles and fast-acting vapes, allowing consumers to find the right product for their individual needs and preferences.
Healthy Snacks
It is no secret that food can give you a quick burst of extra energy. However, be careful of the source of that energy. Yes, a candy bar can give you a boost of energy from fast-digesting sugar. However, it will also leave you crashing once the energy is used up.
Instead, choose something that contains healthy fats, protein, or complex carbohydrates. Hard-boiled eggs, legumes, Greek yogurt, or just about any fruit or vegetable you can find are all good choices. These snacks will give your body more energy and focus on your mind. They’ll also keep your hunger in control within the day.
Another great natural source of energy is nuts. If you are struggling with midday fatigue, eat a handful of raw or sprouted nuts. This will help you stay active and productive throughout the day. In addition to healthy fats and proteins, nuts contain a mineral called magnesium, which also helps maintain energy. Whether it is cashews, almonds, or hazelnuts, these types of nuts can be great substitutes for coffee.
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Uplifting Tunes
Admit it – when we’re alone in the car, we belt out our favorite songs. When we do this, we feel a rush.
This extra energy is not an illusion – singing your favorite tunes not only boosts your mood but also activates blood flow, working as a form of exercise.
So whenever you need a quick boost, make sure to head out to your car for a private karaoke session. If you are stuck inside, simply use your headphones and hum along.
Chewing Gum can be a good coffee alternative
Even though chewing gum may not sound like anything special, some research suggests that it can improve your concentration. The simple act of chewing increases the circulation of oxygen to the brain. This then improves your attention span and reaction time. Plus, chewing the gum makes your brain think it’s eating, which helps to relieve stress. Ultimately, you will feel less stressed, more energized, and more focused.
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Who Is The Author?
Valentina Soldatkina is a copywriter for Alphagreen, Europe’s leading marketplace for top-quality CBD and alternative healthcare products. When she is not writing, Valya spends most of her time taking care of her dog. She also enjoys reading, cooking, or catching up with her friends and family members.