If we’re totally honest, most of our children are bouncing off the walls and we are usually seeking outlets for their excess energy. Usually when we think about energy boosts and kids, it’s grown-ups who need energy boosts to keep up with the kids! But there are times when even our kids need a little pick-me-up.
Before you reach for a sugary caffeinated beverage filled who-knows-what, read on for six natural and safe energy boosts for your kid.
#1 Drink Water
Mother Nature’s natural energy booster is water! Believe it or not, some of the first signs of dehydration are tiredness, exhaustion or fatigue. Also, did you know that children actually need more water than adults? During physical activity or hot weather, this need increases. Though water alone cannot meet all your child’s energy-boosting needs, it’s a great place to start.
#2 Get Moving
It may sound counterintuitive, but if your child is feeling run-down or lethargic, exercise can boost energy! Taking a stroll, a jog, riding a bike or finding another source of movement your child enjoys increases energy naturally. As they increase their heart rate, their blood and brain become more oxygenated. As more oxygen is pumped into the blood and brain, your child enjoys a natural energy boost. An additional perk is the release of endorphins, a natural feel-good chemical produced by the central nervous system.
#3 Sleep Well
The American Academy of Pediatrics has issued guidelines on average sleep requirements for every age. But you know your child and their specific activity levels and needs like no one else! Trust yourself. If your child is less energetic than they used to be, consider if the energy they’re exerting has increased. If so, you may need to ensure they get more sleep, at least during that season.
And, yes, your child may very well dispute the idea of extra sleep (aka an earlier bedtime). But if extra sleep improves their performance in athletics or academics – not to mention their mood and energy levels – it will be worth it.
#4 Make Homemade Energy Drinks
It’s so tempting to just run into the store and grab an energy drink. And while an occasional one may not be detrimental, making homemade energy drinks gives you precise control over what is, and more importantly what isn’t, in their drink.
The biggest thing an energy drink provides that water cannot is electrolytes, such as sodium and potassium. These minerals are sweated out during physical activity and must be replenished.
A quick online search for homemade energy drinks will provide a plethora of options and recipes. A simple rule of thumb is to find something that incorporates honey and salt (natural energy source and replenisher of electrolytes).
#5 Try Peppermint Oil
Essential oils can be used for a variety of purposes. Peppermint oil is a natural energy booster that’s safe for your child. Use in a diffuser in the house or car. Or put a few drops on the wrists or on a piece of fabric to inhale for an energy boost right before the big game.
#6 Enjoy Proper Nutrition
Optimal human health requires more than 40 vitamins, minerals and nutrients! There is no one perfect food that provides for all nutritional needs. Try offering your child a variety of balanced foods. Don’t be afraid to also use supplemental foods specifically targeted to meet the impressive energy needs of an active child. Many parents love our new Brain Focus for Kids Bars for exactly this purpose. These energy-packed bars contain all kinds of stamina-powering ingredients, such as lion’s mane, guarana, pumpkin seed and cordyceps militaris. Check them out here.
Providing Energy Boosts
There are many ways you can naturally increase energy for your child. If you have more questions on ways to boost energy or supplement your child’s nutritional needs, please reach out to our team at BIPRI. We’re here to partner with you! For a limited time, purchase a subscription to any supplement and get 15% off – plus a free 15-minute consultation with our Clinic Director.