Energy Supplements

About Energy Supplements

Fatigued, tired, lethargic, weary or exhausted? If you can relate to any of these on a regular basis, you've probably been lacking in vitality of late! Fatigue is one of the most common complaints made to health professionals. Fatigue is non-specific, however, making the causes difficult to pinpoint. Lack of energy can be caused by depression, sleep apnoea, low thyroid function, low vitamin D levels (and other nutrient deficiencies), alcohol consumption, pharmaceutical side-effects, high processed food diets and so much more.

A common cause of fatigue is lack of exercise. Given you're on a sports website right now, odds are you're not overly surprised by this! The Heart Foundation reports that 33.8% of Australians are considered sedentary, which means no exercise at all. Based on this, for a third of the Australian population exercise is a definite way to improve energy levels, mood and body composition. A less common cause of fatigue is overexertion from too much exercise, which is easy to do when exercise can make you feel great. Moderation and regularity are key when it comes to exercise. Like anything, finding balance is important. A mixture of full body resistance and aerobic exercise is ideal.

Green tea powders can assist with the symptomatic relief of fatigue, as they contain natural caffeine, L-Theanine and abundant antioxidant polyphenols. Caffeine and theanine are energising and relaxing at the same time, helping us get through the day with more zest and focus. Other supplements for boosting energy are Coenzyme Q10 (or Ubiquinol), which is a natural coenzyme produced in the human body involved in the last stage of energy (ATP) synthesis within the mitochondria. COQ10 supplementation is especially indicated for sports and exercise enthusiasts and chronic fatigue syndrome sufferers. 

Sporty's Health stock an impressive range of greens powders, which are helpful when the diet is lacking in fresh vegetables and fruits. These provide important micronutrients in their natural form, as well as a detoxifying nutrient called chlorophyll. Herbal tonics are also particularly useful, especially ones containing adaptogenic herbs, such as Rhodiola rosea, Ashwagandha (Indian Ginseng) and Schisandra chinensis. These herbal extract are particularly helpful if long term stress, and even prolonged high caffeine intakes, are a causative factor in fatigue and the adrenal exhaustion that can follow. B Complex formulas are also helpful in these instances, and also for stress management and to support natural energy synthesis via the citric acid cycle.