How to stay energetic all day

Summer is the perfect time to get fit, lose weight and start taking care of your health—and it doesn’t have to be a struggle. Find out how.

When energy levels dip...
You go through periods of higher activity, which contrasts with times of relaxation. The problem occurs when more energy and concentration is required than we can give, or when we try to sleep and can’t.

How can you cope with it?

• Eating healthy can be a big factor in staying healthy. Says Dr Suman Bhandari, Senior Consultant, Escorts Heart Institute & Research Centre, New Delhi: “Maintain your energy levels by limiting your intake of fat and sugar; focus on carbohydrates, fruits and vegetables. Choose foods with high water content, such as fruits (e.g. watermelons, coconut water, grapes) summer vegetables and salads.”
  
  
• On sweltering days, prevent heatstroke by staying hydrated. Says Dr Vinay Goel, Senior Consultant, Max Healthcare, New Delhi: “Avoid diuretics such as alcohol and caffeine. It is recommended that you drink about 2 litres of water every day.”
  
  
• “Take a 15-20 minute power nap after lunch. Even if you just close your eyes and let your mind drift, you will be refreshed for the afternoon,” he adds.
  
  
• Says Dr Bhandari: “Combining simple exercises with 30 minutes of brisk walking in the morning is the best way to rev up your endurance levels for any kind of activity throughout the day.”
  
  
• Poor air-conditioning can leave you short of breath and cause your heart to race when doing even simple things. Says Dr Goel: “If you suffer from breathing problems, watch the air quality in your office area and make sure that you take in fresh air (take a 5-minute stroll in the open).”

—Manu Kaushik