To uphold your innate energy levels, it’s crucial to consume a diet that is well-rounded, engage in frequent physical activity, and ensure you have sufficient rest. However, it can be challenging to achieve these things, particularly when trying to manage the various responsibilities of daily living. Lucky enough, there is a wide variety of supplements that you can rely on to increase your energy level.
There are seven vitamins and supplements sourced from nature that could strengthen your energy levels.
1. Ashwagandha
One of the oldest medicinal systems worldwide is Indian Ayurveda, in which ashwagandha is considered one of the most significant medicinal herbs. Enhancing the body’s resilience to physical and mental stress is believed to be how ashwagandha increases energy levels.
A study revealed that those administered ashwagandha experienced a substantial reduction in stress and anxiety, as opposed to those who received a placebo. Additionally, their levels of cortisol, a hormone heightened under stressful conditions, were found to be 28% lower.
The results were further validated by evaluating five studies that explored the impact of ashwagandha on anxiety and stress. In all the research conducted, individuals who consumed ashwagandha extract demonstrated superior performance in stress, anxiety, and fatigue evaluations.
Besides enhancing mental fatigue and stress, studies indicate that ashwagandha can relieve exercise-induced fatigue. According to research conducted on top-tier cyclists, those who consumed ashwagandha were able to bike for a duration that was 7% greater than those who were provided with a placebo.
Additionally, studies indicate that ashwagandha supplements possess low risks of side effects and are considered safe.
2. Rhodiola Rosea
Rhodiola rosea is an herb that thrives in specific chilly, mountainous areas. It is commonly employed as an adaptogenic agent, a natural compound that boosts your body’s capacity to manage stress.
A meta-analysis was conducted in which the findings of 11 studies that investigated the impact of rhodiola on physical and mental exhaustion among over 500 individuals were merged and examined by the researchers. Out of the 11 studies conducted, 8 provided proof that rhodiola has the ability to improve physical abilities and alleviate mental exhaustion. Moreover, there were no significant hazards reported in relation to taking rhodiola supplements.
A different evaluation determined that rhodiola has minimum chances of causing negative effects and might assist in reducing exhaustion levels for both the body and mind.
Rhodiola has been recommended as a possible solution for alleviating depression, which is often associated with exhaustion.
In an 11th study, the effectiveness of rhodiola as an antidepressant was compared to the widely prescribed antidepressant sertraline, also known as Zoloft, for a period of 12 weeks.
Rhodiola was discovered to be less effective than sertraline in alleviating symptoms of depression. On the other hand, the tolerance of rhodiola was better and it resulted in fewer side effects in comparison to sertraline.
Purium Products that contain Rhodiola rosea Extract:
3. Vitamin B12
Along with the other B vitamins, vitamin B12 helps transform the food you eat into energy that your cells can use. In addition, it aids in promoting the health of your nerves and blood cells, as well as in preventing a form of anemia that can result in feelings of weakness and fatigue.
A variety of animal proteins like meat, fish, and dairy products contain vitamin B12 naturally. Additionally, B12 is fortified in many foods which helps most Americans meet their B12 requirements if they consume a balanced diet consisting of foods that are rich in B12.
However, certain groups of people may face a potential deficiency in vitamin B12 due to inadequate intake or absorption by the body.
B12 supplements may enhance the energy levels of certain individuals.
Individuals who are vulnerable to insufficiency encompass:
- Older adults: Approximately 10–30% of adults over the age of 50 have difficulty absorbing vitamin B12 from food. This is because they produce less stomach acid and proteins, which are required for proper absorption.
- Vegans: Vegetarians and vegans are at risk of B12 deficiency since animal foods are the only natural food source of this vitamin.
- Those with GI Disorders: Conditions that affect the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, such as celiac disease and Crohn’s disease, may interfere with the body’s ability to absorb B12.
There is no proof indicating that adding B12 or any B vitamins to one’s diet can enhance energy levels for individuals who already have enough of them.
4. Cordyceps
Enhances athletic abilities, elongates stamina and amplifies resistance towards challenging exercise regimes.
Cordyceps, which is connected to the mushroom family, has traditionally been obtained from a fungus that develops on caterpillars in the mountainous zones of China. However, this is unpleasant and unsustainable, so current (and vegan) variations are grown on grains.
Cordyceps is a great choice for improving stamina and endurance, particularly during high-intensity exercise. It functions by elevating ATP levels and enhancing insulin sensitivity, which allows cells to quickly and efficiently utilize energy. Incorporating cordyceps as a supplement is especially beneficial during workouts that are prolonged or intense, as it inhibits the accumulation of lactic acid that leads to muscle soreness and fatigue. Studies have demonstrated that cordyceps supplements are connected with significant improvements in performance endurance and the ability to tolerate high-intensity activity. When selecting cordyceps, be sure to choose organic cordyceps militaris variations sold in capsules, tinctures, or powders.
Purium Products with Cordyceps Sinensis:
- Bee Energetic
- Can’t Beet This!
- MVP Sport Chocolate
- MVP Sport Vanilla
- Super Life Formula
- Super Meal L.O.V.- Original
- Super Meal L.O.V. – Vanilla Chai
- Women’s Defense
5. Korean Ginseng
Provides a harmonious and consistent stream of energy, an equilibrium of drive, and a general sense of health.
For centuries, ginseng has been utilized as a remedy to improve one’s health. It purportedly improves qi, which is the fundamental life force that generates a seamless flow of energy throughout the body, resulting in a sense of equilibrium, constant enthusiasm, and an overall feeling of wellness. Studies reveal that ginsenosides, the constituents of ginseng, boost energy levels in cells and enhance ATP, increasing endurance and reducing exhaustion. Additionally, research indicates that Korean ginseng extract has a revitalizing effect, reducing both physical and mental fatigue, and promoting emotions of happiness and wellness.
Supplements of Korean ginseng can be found in both white and red varieties. The distinction between them is that Korean red ginseng undergoes steaming and drying, which is thought to enhance its bioactivity. To obtain the most energetic advantages, seek out Korean ginseng or Korean red ginseng in the form of tinctures, capsules, tablets, or teas.
6. Nicotinamide Riboside
Elevates overall physical and mental wellness, provides energy reminiscent of youth and enhances motivation.
NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) is a critical nutrient for cellular energy, as it functions as a coenzyme that plays a vital role in the functioning of mitochondria. These are the powerhouses of cells that produce most of the cells’ ATP supply. However, as you age, the body’s production of NAD+ decreases, which can lead to feeling drained, depleted, and much older than you are, with a significant decline often visible by age 60. Despite its importance, taking NAD+ as a supplement is ineffective because it breaks down quickly with light and heat exposure and is not stable in capsule form. Even if you manage to take it, it is broken down during digestion, rendering the supplements mainly useless.
Rather than seeking NAD+ supplements, explore natural ingredients that enhance the body’s ability to produce this significant coenzyme. One of the most effective options is Nicotinamide riboside, proven to notably enhance NAD+ levels in the bloodstream, counteract age-related decreases, augment cellular energy generation, and boost mitochondrial function.
7. Maca Root
Enhances energy, resilience, and lasting staying power.
Maca, which comes from a Peruvian plant related to radishes and other cruciferous vegetables, has long been utilized to enhance stamina, energy, and vitality. As an adaptogen, it works in harmony with the body’s inherent processes, regulating functions and systems while bolstering our innate capacity to cope with physical stress factors.
According to research, maca has the ability to reduce muscle fatigue by decreasing the amount of lactic acid produced, and increase the liver’s glycogen content to provide sufficient energy during workouts for enhanced endurance. Other studies indicate that maca extract can tangibly improve athletes’ stamina, enhance performance, and boost focus and clarity. It is better to buy organic maca in capsule or powder form. The gelatinized formula is more digestible and absorbable as heat breaks down its starches.
Purium Products that contain Maca Root Powder as a Supplement:
