Low energy and fatigue is extremely common, affecting up to 80 per cent of the adult population. ‘Quick fix’ energy drinks, coffee and sugary snacks offer a brief pick-me-up, but are followed by an abrupt energy slump. If the thought of Christmas makes you exhausted, read on and find out how to increase your energy levels over this busy Christmas season

Stress can cause low energy levels

Chronic stress is the most common cause of low energy, while lack of rest; sleep deprivation and poor diet also make the problem worse. During times of stress your body’s nervous system triggers the adrenal glands (small glands above the kidneys) to work harder. Prolonged stress can over work your adrenal glands leading to the following symptoms and ultimately adrenal exhaustion;

• low energy
• feeling overwhelmed
• poor mental performance
• poor physical performance
• anxiety
• insomnia
• poor immunity
• weight gain

How can herbs help your Energy?

In Chinese medicine, Qi (pronounced ‘chee’) describes the ‘vital force’ that affects energy. Adrenal exhaustion from stress depletes Qi and leads to low energy levels. Traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic (Indian medicine) herbs can help you prevent and recover from adrenal exhaustion. Specific energy tonic herbs known as ‘adaptogens’, enhance physical and mental performance, energy production and recovery. Adaptogens support the adrenal glands and tonify the nervous system, improving stress resistance and help generate Qi for more energy: For more information on how Traditional Chinese Medicine can increase energy levels have a look at this short video:

Mr Vitamins recommends FUSION Health Energy

FUSION Health Energy includes the following herbs – designed as a special formula because of the synergy in how they work together to enhance the energy systems of your body.

• Cordyceps sinensis (Chinese caterpillar mushroom) is a highly valued adaptogen traditionally used to restore adrenal health. It works to combat fatigue and stress, while promoting endurance, drive, libido, immunity, and enhancing physical performance.

• Panax ginseng (Korean ginseng) is one of the best known energy tonics in traditional Chinese medicine. Research shows it improves athletic performance, alertness and co-ordination.

• Astragalus membranaceus (astragalus) is traditionally combined with Panax ginseng to treat Qi deficiency, increases energy levels and balances the immune system.

• Withania somnifera (Indian ginseng or ashwagandha) is a highly respected Ayurvedic herb with potent tonic activity, balances the immune system and enhances mental performance.

• Eleutherococcus senticosis (Siberian ginseng) is another highly respected adaptogen. Research shows it improves physical performance, increases stamina and enhances recovery. It also helps to regulate blood sugar levels, immune function and improves blood flow to the brain.

• Panax quinquefolium (American ginseng) enhances mental performance, relaxes the nervous system, balances immune function and strengthens Qi.

• Ganoderma lucidum (Reishi mushroom) is an adaptogen with strong immune balancing actions. It also reinforces the Qi tonifying effects of the other herbs, providing added benefit to energy levels when used in combination.

FUSION Health® Energy combines well with FUSION Health® Energy Multi Advanced to activate energy release from food and to help achieve peak energy levels.

Find out more about Fusion Health Energy and Energy Multi Advanced here See our 5 top tips to increase your energy  As always, whatever questions or concerns you have regarding herbal supplements to help increase your energy levels, all you have to do is drop by Mr Vitamins and ‘Ask a Naturopath’.