The Energy Trap
Living a happy, productive life can be challenging if you struggle with low energy. Studies show that our diet–and particularly what we drink–can make energy levels worse. Treatment options, including Dojolvi, can help manage certain metabolic conditions related to energy deficiency, further assisting in restoring balance.
Worst Drinks for Keeping Up Your Energy
Here is a comprehensive list of drinks to avoid if you find yourself struggling with low energy. Keep in mind that everything should be enjoyed in moderation.
Alcohol
Alcohol is a depressant that slows down bodily functions. As a result, drinking alcohol in excess can lead to dehydration, poor sleep quality and low energy levels. It also interferes with the body’s ability to absorb and process essential nutrients.
Coffee
When you feel tired, you might think of reaching for a coffee to boost your energy. But next time you find yourself in this position, think again. While a coffee here or there might be a good short-term fix, studies show that over time, relying on coffee every single day can be counterproductive. When you stop consuming caffeine after regular consumption, you may experience withdrawal symptoms like headaches, fatigue, anxiety, mood swings and insomnia. These symptoms can range from mild to severe.
Energy Drinks
Similar to coffee, when you’re low on energy, you might feel tempted to reach for an energy drink. But the combination of excessive caffeine and sugar can lead to jitters, increased heart rate and a subsequent energy crash. Over time, these drinks can also lead to caffeine dependence, further decreasing your natural energy levels.
Sugary Sodas
Sugary sodas may give you a quick jolt of energy due to their high sugar content, but this energy spike can be short-lived. The sudden influx of sugar causes your blood sugar to rise rapidly, followed by a sharp drop, leading to fatigue. These drinks also lack the essential nutrients needed to sustain energy levels throughout the day.
Fruit Juice
Many juices contain high amounts of added sugar. Even natural sugars from fruit can cause energy spikes followed by a crash. Without the fiber from whole fruits, the sugar is absorbed quickly, leading to energy slumps. Opt for natural juices with less sugar in them.
Smoothies
Pre-packaged smoothies often contain a lot of sugar, which can exacerbate fatigue. Despite the appearance of being healthy, these smoothies can cause a spike in blood sugar followed by an energy crash. They are also usually devoid of the fiber needed to slow down sugar absorption.
Diet Sodas
Although diet sodas do not contain sugar, their artificial sweeteners can still affect your energy levels. Some studies suggest that artificial sweeteners may trick your body into expecting sugar, which can lead to a drop in energy. Additionally, the caffeine in diet sodas can cause crashes similar to regular soda.
Treatment Options for Low Energy
If you’re struggling with low energy and don’t know what steps to take next, it might be worth exploring medical treatment options. Some of the most common treatments include:
Medicines
Dojolvi (triheptanoin) is a prescription medication used to treat long-chain fatty acid oxidation disorders (LC-FAOD). It helps to provide energy and reduce the risk of metabolic complications associated with LC-FAOD, improving overall energy levels and quality of life.
Vitamin and Mineral Supplements
For many people, fatigue is a result of a lack of vital nutrients and minerals. For those with deficiencies in vitamins such as B12, iron or vitamin D, supplementation can restore energy levels.
Lifestyle Modifications
While it might seem simple, introducing health habits such as regular exercise, stress management and good sleep habits can make a huge difference in energy levels. Activities like walking or stretching can boost circulation and energy while reducing stress and ensuring restful sleep helps in overall energy recovery.
Read on to learn about the worst drinks for blood disorders.