Coffee, Tea, Soda, Water….  

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Need a boost of energy but unsure what drinks are right to have?

I have been there, it is truly a struggle when you don’t know what to drink that will make you feel the best the longest amount of time. Do you go to Starbucks and get a coffee spiked with excessive amounts of sugar? Or drink the same tea that helped you go to bed the night before and drink that in the morning? Maybe just stop at the vending machine and pick up a 240 calorie Coke because you know sugar wakes you up and gives you that quick boost? You know water is good for you, but does that give you energy? There are too many options – sometimes I wish there was a drink that had a label saying “Drink this, it will give you long lasting energy, and won’t make you feel obese and bloated the rest of the day”. But we are not that lucky YET.

Here is what you need to know about your drinking habits.

Water does have the potential to energize you. When you are dehydrated your metabolic reaction slows down and as a result you feel sluggish.

You could also try adding fruit to your water. Lemon, cucumber, pineapple- add any type of fruit for a little extra flavor and added natural sugar, vitamins and minerals which will also increase energy levels.

Green tea does not have a large amount of caffeine; however it has enough that it will increase your body’s production of ACTH, which is a hormone that triggers the body to release cortisol. A cortisol deficiency can lead to low energy levels.

Smoothies are great for energy. The best part about smoothies is you never have to get tired of them because you can constantly change them. Foods that are good for energy boosting: banana, Greek yogurt, apples, oranges, spinach, honey – try a few different combinations until you find a flavor that you like.

There are plenty of drinks that you can have to give you the boost you need for your day. Stay away from high caffeinated and sugary drinks because even though you feel it quick that does not mean it is best for you throughout the day.

This blog post was written by Jessi Thome a student majoring in dietetics at the University of Minnesota.