The end of the year is a busy time for many families. There are gifts to shop for, family meals to prepare, and parties to entertain. While it’s the most wonderful time of the year for many, it’s also the most exhausting.
With age, comes decreased energy levels and the holidays can leave one feeling drained and unable to check everything off their to-do list. Give yourself a gift this season and put your health first. We have included tips below to help you renew your energy and promote positive aging.
Eat Balanced Meals
Holidays can make it difficult to stick to a healthy, well-balanced meal plan. With Christmas cookies and desserts tempting you or the convenience of fast and easy processed dinners, you may not be getting the proper nutrients needed.
Whole foods, such as fruits and vegetables, can give you antioxidants, minerals, and vitamins to boost your energy level. It’s important to get the appropriate amount of calories daily that your body needs in order for it to turn the substance into energy. Try avoiding “high-glycemic” foods, which includes white rice and bread, baked potato, and sweet desserts. The foods can cause fast spikes in your blood sugar, and while you may feel a boost of energy, the sugar crash may leave you more drained than before.
Another meal to eat in moderation is red meat. It takes the body more time, and energy, to digest, which can leave you feeling tired after a meal. Meat still carries necessary vitamins that your body needs, such as vitamin B12, but you can supplement with over-the-counter vitamins or non dairy milks including soy and almond.
Drink Plenty of Water
Fueling your body with the necessary amount of water may often times be an afterthought but it plays a vital role in supplying you with energy for the day. Healthline reports that the average adult should consume about 2 liters of water a day, even if they do not feel thirsty.
The body loses water throughout the day through sweat and urine and one must replenish it to not feel the effects of mild dehydration. Not only will the adequate amount of water give your body the energy it needs, but there are also studies that show it improves brain function and mood, prevents headaches, helps boost metabolism and lose weight, prevents constipation, and improves skin hydration plus more. Fuel your body with what it needs or you could experience the uncomfortable consequences.
Get Enough Sleep
While you may be thinking that “getting enough sleep” is easier said than done in this busy time of the year and even when you do lay down in bed, you can’t seem to doze off, there may be a few tips that could help.
Try setting a routine and sticking to it. Go to bed the same time each night and wake up at the same time each morning. Your routine before bed should ditch screen time and instead involve reading a book, drinking hot bedtime tea, and meditating to relax your body. Do not nap during the day as that can confuse your internal clock, but instead be active.
Get Moving
While maintaining an active lifestyle may have you convinced that it is the reason for your fatigue, exercise and moving more throughout the day is actually a proven technique in boosting energy levels and preventing dips.
Take a morning walk outside to get your day started. The fresh air, movement, and vitamin D from the sun will all contribute to supplying you with the energy you need to get through the day and tackle your holiday to-do list. If the weather is too cold, you can take a stroll around your local mall and shop for the perfect Christmas gifts at the same time! You can also read more about the best low impact exercises for getting older here. Only do as much as you feel you can handle, even if it’s just a few minutes a day. You can gradually add in more exercises and you’ll start to notice how it helps your energy, mood, and overall health.
Talk to a Doctor About Hormones
If the tips above have still proven unsuccessful in boosting your energy levels this holiday season, it may be time to talk to your doctor about hormone replacement treatments.
Insomnia, lack of motivation, and decreased or no energy are all symptoms of a hormone imbalance. No matter how mild or severe your case is, a hormone imbalance can cause a significant amount of discomfort and inconvenience during your days, but it is highly treatable. At Renewed Vitality, we offer safe, effective Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy to help you find your balance and fuel your body for the holidays.
Get the Energy You Need to Fuel the Holidays
You don’t have to limit your activities and planning this season because of your exhaustion. With the tips listed above, you’ll be able to enjoy the holidays with your loved ones and remain the superior host you are every year!