7 Caffeine-Free Ways to Energize!

Sustaining energy levels at work all day can be as demanding as the job. Factors like lack of sleep, stress, diet and exercise all play a role in your ability to stay focused. These problems are within your control, here are 7 ways you can stay energized while maintaining a caffeine free lifestyle. It might be tempting especially in cold February to fill up on coffee, but stay strong!

Kick Caffeine Out!

1. Eat Right and Don’t Skip Meals

Your diet is your primary source of energy. Skipping breakfast or lunch will cause your blood-sugar levels to drop, leaving you feeling foggy and sluggish. If rushed, grab some fruit, veggies or nuts to snack on while sitting at your desk. Energy bars are good options for calories in a pinch, but not for meal replacements. Read the label first. If you recognize the ingredients, it’s a good choice; if the ingredients read like a list for a science experiment, pass. Nutrient-rich foods keep you more consistently energized than processed sugars.

2. Just Say No

Stop binging on coffee, tea and energy drinks. While these products provide a quick boost, it’s short-lived and requires constant replenishment. Consider green tea as a substitute, which offers antioxidants and provide just the right amount of caffeine without making you jittery. If you’re looking to stay caffeine-free altogether, for benefits such as lower blood pressure, better sleep and decreased anxiety, you have two options: going cold turkey or weaning yourself off. The cold turkey approach may require some easily digestible food like soup. If you elect the wean method, then cut your portions by a quarter and then half a serving each day for a week.

3. Chocolate

An ounce of dark chocolate provides a mild stimulant as well as ample antioxidants. It can boost memory and lower cardiovascular risk. Plus, it tastes great. Anything above 70 percent pure cacao is good, but 85 to 90 percent is best.

4. Music

Music is a mood modifier. One song can take you from singing the blues to dancing on the ceiling. And while we too think it’s all about the bass, some of your co-workers may not. Wear headphones or use common sense on song selection at work.

5. Yogurt!

A cup of yogurt is a high-protein meal that will provide a much-needed lift. Sweeten it with a few fresh berries and you’ve double-dipped your way to energy. Fat-free Greek yogurt is a fine choice that’s high in protein and amino acids. Frozen yogurt may sound like a viable option, but it can be high in sugar and is best reserved for dessert.

6. Walk

Much like our previous blog, walking has numerous benefits, especially increase energy! Your blood will get pumping, and the resulting energy boost will sustain you for a few hours. Or take it outdoors and soak in some free vitamin D. A few minutes of sunshine and fresh air will enliven you in a way that artificial lighting and circulated air cannot.

7. Nuts!

Along with fresh fruit, fill up on nuts such as almonds and walnuts. Both provide your body with good fats that boost brainpower. Sunflowers seeds are another simple healthy snack. For a more filling midday treat, consider peanut butter on celery or whole-grain crackers.

Put these tips into practice at DataTech Business Centre! Our offices have fully stocked break rooms and plenty of walking room!