Monday, September 22, 2008

Lacking Energy?

As college students, we know what it feels like to run low on energy. However, not many know what actually causes us to lose energy or how to gain it back properly. This blog will contain three main factors that influence the increase and decrease of energy. For more information, you can visit http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/26334200/?pg=1#COT_Energyfoods_080822.


Even though college is supposed to be one of the best times of your life college students put a lot of stress on themselves. The thing that they don’t realize is stress can lead to fatigue, headaches and backaches. People who lead a stressful lifestyle often don’t have enough time to prepare a healthy meal. Small amounts of chocolate have known to be helpful because it has an energy and mood stimulant. The caffeine and L – theanine that is in tea decreases mental fatigue, improves alertness, reaction time, and memory.


Dieting is the next big factor in determining energy levels. If people don’t get the proper amount of fuel they will feel weak and lightheaded. Most people eat three big meals a day and stuff themselves. Studies have shown that eating small regular meals and snacks every three to four hours will help keep energy up without overeating.

Probably one of the biggest problems around campuses is lack of sleep. We deprive ourselves of sleep, which drains our energy needed for the next day. Eating the right food can help boost your energy for the day without overeating. Foods with vitamin B 12 helps prevent fatigue; it influences melatonin, which regulates sleep cycles. People who have trouble sleeping at night should eat carbs before they sleep because it is a comfort food.