Energy levels can often be boosted naturally by maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle.

Start by following a satisfying and nutritious anti-inflammatory diet, being sure to avoid rapidly digesting carbohydrates and staying well-hydrated – dehydration is a common cause of fatigue.

Don’t rely upon caffeinated beverages, however – make pure water your beverage of choice. Commit to daily exercise even when you feel tired – aerobic exercise such as brisk walking almost always improves energy, all the more so if performed outdoors.

Practice healthy means of stress management such as meditation and breath work, and go to bed at an hour that best guarantees you the chance to get 7 hours of sleep.

If you’re feeling tired during the day a catnap of 15-20 minutes at home or during your lunch hour can be rejuvenating.

I often recommend the mushroom tonic Cordyceps (Cordyceps sinensis) in a dose of 1-2 capsules daily for those experiencing low energy levels while recovering from a recent illness.

Ginseng (Panax ginseng) is a well-known tonic product that can increase energy, as is Eleuthero (Eleutherococcus senticosus), sometimes called Siberian ginseng. Rhodiola (R. rosea), or rose root, has also long been used in Russia as a tonic and remedy for fatigue.
 
-- With Marti Lotman

Andrew Weil, M.D., is Founder and Director, Arizona Center for Integrative Medicine at the College of Medicine, University of Arizona, and Director of Integrative Health and Healing, Miraval Resort. He is a pioneer in the field of integrative medicine, which combines conventional medicine with alternative approaches. He received his medical degree from Harvard University. His new book is True Food: Seasonal, Sustainable, Simple, Pure.

Click here for Dr. Weil's website.