After a long winter, many of us are finding ourselves heading into spring feeling completely de-energised, tired and lethargic. From the cold weather to dark evenings, there are many reasons why we may be lacking energy, so if you’re in search of a much-needed energy boost, then there will likely be many different things you are considering.
Whilst eating a well-balanced diet, taking part in regular exercise and getting plenty of sleep are some of the most important ways that you can look after your health and keep your energy levels high, there are some other ways in which you can give your body some much-needed support and an energy boost as we move into the spring and summer months, including the introduction of vitamins and minerals.
With that in mind, let’s have a look at 3 of the best vitamins and supplements you can add to your diet in order to boost your energy levels.
Vitamin B12
Vitamins with B12, along with other B vitamins, can help to transform the foods that you eat into energy that your cells need and can use. Vitamin B12 helps to keep your nerves and blood cells healthy and in some cases can help prevent against a type of anaemia which can make you feel tired and weak.
Vitamin B12 is found naturally in foods such as meat, fish and dairy products, but a lot of foods are now also fortified with B12. Although it is found in a lot of foods, some people may find that they are deficient in B12, which may then be affecting their energy levels. These people include older adults, people following a vegetarian or vegan diet and those who suffer from gut health problems. If you are feeling like you are in need of an energy boost and are in one of the above groups, then it may be worth considering taking a vitamin B12 supplement.
Iron
Our bodies need iron in order to make haemoglobin, which is a protein in red blood cells that helps transport oxygen from your lungs, through to your organs and tissues throughout your body. If you are low in iron, then your red blood cells won’t be able to effectively carry oxygen through your body, which can make you feel fatigued and weak, also known as iron deficiency anaemia.
Iron deficiency anaemia is often caused by a diet that is low in iron, which is typically vegan or vegetarian diets. Iron levels are usually around 1.8 times lower in vegans and vegetarians than meat-eaters, which is because a lot of people get their iron naturally from meat protein. Pregnant women are also at risk of iron deficiency, as the body requires more iron in order to support the normal growth and development of their baby. As a result, you may need to consider adding an iron supplement to your diet.
Melatonin
Melatonin is a natural hormone that plays a hugely important role when it comes to your sleeping schedule. It’s produced and released in the body depending on the time of day, with levels rising in the evening and falling in the morning. Adding a melatonin supplement to your diet can help to alleviate insomnia if you are struggling with your sleeping schedule, as insomnia can make you feel constantly tired or low on energy. Symptoms of insomnia include difficulty falling asleep, poor concentration levels or waking up early in the morning.
There are many different types of vitamins, supplements and minerals that you can take in order to boost your energy levels. When taken alongside a healthy diet, ensuring that you are drinking plenty of water and exercising regularly, you may notice that your energy levels increase massively. If you are deficient in some vitamins or minerals, then you may want to consider taking a daily multivitamin, too.
