Foods for Restful Nights: Certain Foods Can Help or Hurt Our Sleep

Getting a good night's sleep is one of the most important things you can do for your health. Sleep is not a passive process; during sleep our body revitalizes physically and mentally. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) report that proper sleep reduces the risk of chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure and clinical depression. Proper sleep is essential for optimal daytime functioning. The doctors at the CDC advise that most adults should get between 7 and 9 hours of sound, uninterrupted sleep each night. The most common symptom of poor sleep is daytime fatigue and poor energy. The National Sleep Foundation reports that nearly a quarter of all US adults experience sleep difficulties that impair their daytime energy, motivation and concentration. While many factors affect sleep including sleep environment (light, temperature, sounds), individual stress levels, [...]

Natural Ways to Maximize Energy

Energy is both a physical and mental resource. If you use caffeine or another energy product on a daily basis, take a moment to understand the potential health effects of your daily habit. Also understand that there are many positive strategies that can help you boost energy, productivity and concentration. These lifestyle habits also allow you to minimize the use of artificial stimulants and reduce the potential for harmful side effects if they are used. Here are our Top 7 Caffeine-Free Energy Boosters: Fiber + Protein While simple carbohydrates found in energy bars and drinks boost blood sugar quickly, they often leave you feeling depleted shortly after the initial energy boost. Instead of buying these so-called energy products, eat whole foods for energy. Complex carbohydrates, also known as high fiber foods, are a better choice for sustained energy especially when [...]