Natural Mood And Energy Boosters

It can be the time of year or an event that causes us to feel overwhelmed with the need to get our emotions and mood in check. While getting enough sleep and a good diet are a good start, sometimes we need more. There are many natural options that can help enhance the mood during a stressful time.(post includes affiliate links; full disclosure statement available {here})

Vitamin B12

Vitamin B12 turns the food we eat into energy for the cells to use. It keeps the nerves and blood cells healthy and prevents a certain type of anemia that causes fatigue. Vitamin B12 is found in meat proteins and dairy products. It may be harder to get the necessary amount needed for vegetarians and vegans. Those with a deficiency may notice a boost in energy when a B12 supplement is added.

Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha is an Indian ayurveda herb. It has the ability to increase energy by helping your body deal with physical and mental stress better. Studies show ashwagandha improves stress and anxiety in those taking it. It also shows lower levels of the stress hormone cortisol. 

CoQ10

CoQ10 is made in the body naturally and found in all cells. The heart, kidneys and liver have the highest amount. The cells use CoQ10 to make energy and protect the body from oxidative damage. When CoQ10 levels are low there isn’t enough energy being produced for the cells to stay healthy, leading to fatigue. As we age CoQ10 levels decrease, they may also be low in people with heart failure, some cancers and type 2 diabetes. 

Melatonin

Melatonin is a natural hormone related to sleep. It is usually produced at night and falls in the morning. Those with chronic insomnia may benefit from supplementing with melatonin. 

Iron

Iron is necessary for the body to make hemoglobin, which is a protein in the red blood cells that moves oxygen throughout the body. When there isn’t enough iron, oxygen isn’t able to circulate properly. This leads to iron deficiency anemia that causes fatigue and weakness. Vegans and vegetarians may find it more difficult to get the amount of iron needed in their diet. Also those with heavy periods may experience an iron deficiency. Supplementing with iron may be helpful to get levels back to normal.    

Rhodiola Rosea

Rhodiola Rosea is a herb that is used as an adaptogen, it naturally enhances your body’s ability to handle stress. Studies have shown that rhodiola plays a role in enhanced physical performance and mental fatigue. It also may help with depression.

Creatine

Creatine is found in meats like, red meat, pork, poultry and fish. It gives the body a quick source of energy for things like high-intensity, short-duration workouts. Supplementing with creatine have shown to extend strength training and increase energy supply. 

Citrulline

Citrulline increases nitric oxide in the body, widening the inner muscles of the blood vessels and increasing circulation. With this blood, oxygen and nutrients are able to properly flow through the body. When nitric oxide is not circulating enough fatigue and weakness can occur. Citrulline also eliminates ammonia from the body. Ammonia contributes to fatigue from intense exercise. Citrulline may allow you to workout longer. 

Tyrosine

Tyrosine is an amino acid that the body produces. It is found in high protein foods, like chicken, eggs and dairy. Tyrosine produces neurotransmitters that transmit messages in the brain. Supplements have shown to help increase alertness and energy levels. This is good for people who produce lower neurotransmitters due to stressful and demanding activities.