Getting into a regular workout routine is extremely rewarding but definitely requires you to eat more; something most women break into cold sweats over! It seems logical that you will gain weight if you eat more, yet if you’re an active person, your body uses more energy and therefore requires more food.

If you are not eating enough, you’re find yourself becoming sluggish and low-energy. If you’ve been wondering how to have more energy, without losing the progress you’ve made, then you’ve come to the right place! Read on to read my top tips on how to have more energy throughout your day.

How to Have More Energy 

1. Workout!

You’ll be glad to know that working out is actually one of the best ways to naturally have more energy throughout the day! But like I mentioned, if you’re not fueling yourself properly, then you might find that you’re actually getting more tired throughout the day.

The best way to determine how much you need to eat is to determine your macros (here’s a quick explanation as to what macros are and how to count them). While it isn’t necessary to be strict about counting your macros, it’s smart to understand the amount of food you should be eating, so that you don’t eat too much or too little. I’ll talk more about the best types of foods to eat to boost your energy levels a little later on.

2. Drink more water and fluids

I’m sure you’ve heard everyone and their mother telling you to drink more water. And for good reason; even being moderately dehydrated can affect your energy levels. When you’re low on water, your body has to work harder to get crucial nutrients and blood to your muscles; including the brain. Which is exactly why not drinking enough water can make you feel tired and lethargic. An easy fix to having more energy? Chug a glass of water and add a lemon slice to give it more flavor.

3. You’re relying too much on other products, like pre-workouts and coffee

Ok, don’t get me wrong. I adore my pre-workout supplement and lattes. However, don’t abuse them to the point that you need them to boost your energy levels. Make sure you’re only having them as much as you need to for more energy. For example, I will only have my pre-workout supplement before a hardcore lifting workout.

And as for coffee, I try hard to start my day with a lighter caffeinated drink, such as a green tea, and then I’ll have a small cup of cold brew coffee to get me over that midday slump. Because I moderate how much I rely on other products to boost my energy, I find that on days where I don’t have anything, I’m just fine and have all the energy I need!

4. De-stress and relax, girl!

Easier said than done, I know, I know. But seriously, a recent study found that stress does have an impact on your energy levels. Being stressed forces your body to go into overdrive, keeping your cortisol levels and other stress-related hormones sky high.

Furthermore, you could be causing your body to gain unnecessary weight by being stressed because with elevated cortisol levels comes an increased amount of glucose because your body is preparing itself for a fight or flight situation. Not. Good. Take some time to chill out everyday, even if it’s just for 10 minutes. I personally like doing some yoga, going for a walk and listening to a podcast. Or reading a juicy book in the tub. That’s my idea of bliss.

What to Eat to Get Energy

Now that we’ve gone through some ways to get more energy, let’s talk about what some of the best foods are to keep your energy levels high, especially if you workout regularly.

• Protein shakes and smoothies

Having snacks and meals that contain at least 10 grams of protein help keep your energy levels up, and satiation, for longer! Try mixing your favorite protein powder (mine is currently this Slender Blend from Protein World, yum!) with a cup of your preferred milk, and half a frozen banana. Or just have your favorite protein powder with water for a low-calorie, high energy snack!

• Greek Yogurt with Berries

I really like the Chobani and Siggi’s brand yogurts. Again, these make a great high protein snack, and the berries add in a dose of carbohydrates (and vitamins) which are easy for your body to turn into energy.

• Protein bars 

These are lifesavers for me whenever I have to travel or if I want someone quick to eat at work. I personally really like Square Bars, and particularly the coconut flavored bar (you can use my code ‘honestlyfitness’ when you checkout for 10% off a combo box order), and I think that Go Macro is a fantastic option for those who are either eating gluten-free, organic or vegan foods. Hint, hint, try the cashew caramel and the peanut butter chocolate chip one.

• Chicken jerky

Oh baby, you gotta try Epic’s chicken and sriracha jerky. So freaking tasty, high in protein and easy peasy to eat when you’re on the go.

• Handful of almonds and string cheese
• Brown rice
• Boiled eggs

By incorporating at least one of these ideas for boosting your energy levels, along with eating the right foods, you should have no trouble at all keeping your energy up. Which is perfect for those long summer days which involve hiking, paddle boarding and more. Oh summer, I love you <3

Let me know if you have any questions and what your energy boosting secrets are.

Honestly yours,
Alice

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