Manufactured energy drinks are high in glucose or processed sugar and most contain caffeine. Caffeine tolerance varies between individuals, but for most people a dose of over 200-300mg may produce some initial symptoms: restlessness, increase heartbeat, insomnia, and higher dosages can lead to increased blood pressure, heart palpitations, gastrointestinal disturbance (diarrhoea) and increase in urination. A processed sugar boost is also well known for the ‘high’ it gives, followed by a ‘low’ and the desire for another kick. These extremes take their toll on the resources of the body, and have a longer term depleting and draining effect.

Are there any natural alternatives for a jumpstart for the day or for that mid afternoon slump?

Here are a few ideas:

1. Coconut Water is a nutrient rich drink which can be used to regulate blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol levels, and it has been found to boost energy levels and increase metabolism in the human body. It also tastes really good!

It is very close in formulation to blood plasma; so close in fact that during World War II coconut water was used intravenously for hydration and replacing blood minerals.

In particular, coconut water has less sugar and sodium content compared to most sports drinks but has more potassium, calcium, and chloride, which makes it a better choice to rehydrate, replenish and boost the body’s energy levels, particularly after any strenuous activity or workout.

2. Avocado – well yes I know its not a drink , but it does make a terrific healthy snack and it can go in a smoothie! Avocados are packed full of vitamins and minerals and contain a huge amount of amino acids needed by the body which is why you can feel pretty full after eating one. This makes them a great natural energy source, giving the body some truly essential building blocks to keep healthy.

3. Wheatgrass juice– as well as containing a vast range of nutrients including 91 out of a possible 102 minerals it also is one of the richest sources of chlorophyll on the planet. It is the chlorophyll that is the key ingredient that the powerful energising effect of wheatgrass is attributed to. The chlorophyll molecule of plants is almost identical to the haemoglobin molecule in human blood. The difference being the central element in chlorophyll is magnesium whereas in haemoglobin it is iron. This means the body can readily use the components in chlorophyll, benefitting the blood and oxygen levels and making it a highly effective way to energise the body in the short and long term.
Wheatgrass juice is available in powder form, or you can juice from trays of indoor grown wheatgrass, but by far the best source I’ve found is organic field grown wheatgrass frozen into little 1oz pots. Defrost in a pot of warm water for 15 mins or overnight in the refrigerator and drink with apple juice for a delicious start to the day or to deal with the mid afternoon slump

4. A Redox Signalling Molecule Supplement, the worlds first and only,  is now available in the UK.   By supplementing the body with redox signalling molecules it is given it the raw materials it needs to function and stay healthy and is one of the keystones of good health along with a vitamin and mineral rich diet. With a redox signalling molecule supplement there isn’t a high and then a low, it is more about endurance, and naturally supporting the body as it goes about its tasks. More information here