Between college, work and friends, we all need some extra energy from time to time. Superfoods, supplements, energy drinks: they all promise outstanding results at (often) high prices. With health and budgeting as my focus, get ready for the truth about these 4 common energy boosters myths.
Energy drinks
Like any other food with high sugar and caffeine content, energy drinks will instantly lift you up by giving you a very short-lived boost of energy. This short term energy shot actually has more cons than pros and could be the cause of many side effects.
Soon after an energy drink you'll be left craving another one, feeling irritable and restless. The huge sugar intake of these drinks can be harmful by increasing blood pressure and causing weight gain, in particular if you don't exercise regularly.
What you could do instead
In order to be hydrated and keep your mind sharp, you should drink plenty of plain water and snack on fruit — Mother Nature's favourite energy booster. If you cannot resist the sugar call, then opt for a home made, low sugar iced tea.
"Superfoods"
The first red flag that should open our eyes on this matter is the word "superfood" itself: we don't have a unique, standardised definition for it. The EU doesn't permit its use on food labels, unless backed up by legitimate research — which haven't been published yet.
Broccoli, jams, popcorn, tea, cereals, celery, beetroot and blueberries are just few of them, and, as you can see, they appear pretty randomly picked. Lots of foods have amazing properties for our bodies, but "miracle foods" don't exist.
What you could do instead
Keeping a healthy, balanced diet will guarantee you all of the nutrients you need. Just try to avoid foods and drinks which are high in salt, sugar and fat and eat something from each of the 5 food groups every day. If you're looking for guidance, you can consult the Eatwell Guide from the NHS website.
Vitamin supplements
While there are certain cases in which people actually need to take vitamin supplements, most of the time fruit and vegetables naturally provide our bodies with the minerals needed. Food is usually better than tablets because of the way it naturally combines nutrients and fibres.
Supplements can also be very expensive and aren't always good for you — when taking them, you have to bear in mind any medicaments you might be taking. Always ask your GP before starting taking vitamins or other supplements.
What you could do instead
If you're looking for a way to be more energetic throughout the day, it's your diet that needs to change. Eating at regular intervals and having a large breakfast — with plenty of fruit, vegetables and fibres — can make a huge difference. If you're looking for some inspiration, check out these breakfast ideas.
Detox
Often marketed as energy boosters and purifiers of the body, detox and juice diets don't actually have any evidence of their claimed benefits. Our kidneys already have the task of purifying our body, by filtrating blood in order to produce urine, release and retain water and to remove waste and nitrogen.
There is no scientific evidence of our bodies being full of toxins from stress, pollution, smoke and so on. Fasting and getting nutrients from large quantities of liquids only isn't healthy, as the British Dietetic Association points out, defining detox diets as marketing myths.
What you could do instead
The route to follow in order to be healthy and full of energy is always keeping a balanced diet. Be careful about your food planning, try to cook in advance and bring your meals from home. If you need a snack, opt for a high-fibre bar (instead of a high-sugar or a high-fat one), fruit and vegetables.
Don't forget to listen to your body
If you are simply looking for a way to take care of your body or to generally feel better, more energetic and light, then keep trying to find a balanced diet that suits you. Mother Nature has always provided us with the right materials to be in our best shape, without the need for energy boosters.
However, if you are experiencing extreme tiredness and you feel like you're actually lacking in something, then it's important that you visit your GP. Doctors know best — whether it is a change in your diet or an actual energy booster that you need. For now, keep listening to your body and go on with your delicious, healthy meals.