Get Energized in Seven Simple Steps.  Just six short months ago, I was over 50 pounds overweight, my diabetes was out of control, my back constantly ached, and my energy level was at zero.  I heard that the definition of insanity was to continued doing the same things and expect a different result.  So, I decided to make some lifestyle changes.  I began to apply the same seven simple as discussed in this article to my own life.  The result, I lost weight, got my diabetes under control, no longer have pain in my back and my energy level has gone through the roof. You too can Get Energized by following these seven simple steps.

While on my weight loss program, I would eat every 2 to 3 hours for a total of 6 times per day. I discovered that following a healthier meal plan was an essential element in my weight loss and increasing my level of energy. Regardless of the plan you choose to follow, the plan must include a variety of healthy foods. You must NOT skip meals. When you skip meals your body will compensate and go into starvation mode. In this mode, the body begins to store fat which prevents your metabolism from functioning properly. You must also be careful of what type of foods you choose to use as snacks during the day. Most people, when they become fatigued will search for the closest vending machine, then purchase a bag of chips or their favorite candy bar. This type of snack may provide you with a temporary or quick burst of energy, but that energy will soon falter. It will leave you even more fatigued than you were originally. Try to limit or completely eliminate your intake of processed foods and snacks. A healthier snack choice would be something like apple slices or carrot sticks.

Just about all of my life, I have battled my weight. As the years have come and gone, the additional pounds have come and stayed. Several years ago I was diagnosed as a Type 2 diabetic. My obesity contributed to the development my diabetes. Being overweight can increase your risk of developing several other major health problems. Along with diabetes, obesity increases your risk of stroke and heart disease. It will also affect your body’s energy level. In May of this year, I made a commitment to lose weight and eat healthier. To date, I have lost over 50 pounds. As a result of this weight loss, my diabetic medication has been decreased by 50%, my blood pressure is now in the normal range and my

energy level has gone through the roof. The really good news is that you do not have to lose 50 pounds to feel better. Just losing 1 or 2 pounds each week will dramatically increase your energy level. Research shows That a moderate weight loss approach is better for your body and increases your odds of keeping this weight off permanently.

Drinking water is a healthy way for you to build energy. Every adult person needs to drink at least 64 ounces of water each day. There are many benefits of drinking water, the first is drinking water tends to curb the bodies cravings and helps control your appetite. Water tends to boost the metabolism of our body. Water will also hydrate your body and help aid in the flushing of toxins from the body. If you are one that has difficulty drinking your daily requirement of water, you might try drinking green tea as a healthier alternative to coffee, cokes, hot chocolate, or any other highly-caffeinated drinks.

Shockingly, recent new stories have reported that more than 33 percent of Americans suffer from chronic insomnia. Sleep is absolutely essential in order to maintaining proper health and energy levels. Getting the proper amount of rest will help the body to repair itself, reduce stress, help maintain normal blood pressure, improve our memory and even assist in weight control. Napping is a great source of re-charging the bodies batteries. Try taking a few minutes out of your day for a power nap. It will do wonders for your energy level.

The irony of weight loss is that when you are overweight you do not feel like exercising and when you don’t exercise you will gain weight. Along with my commitment to lose weight, I now make healthier lifestyle choices. One of my lifestyles changes was to begin an exercise program. My began to walk in my neighborhood several evenings each week for 15 to 20 minutes.  Almost immediately, I began to notice my energy level was increasing daily. It seems the more I exercise, the better I feel. I now exercise for one hour a day at a local fitness center almost every day. In order to increase your energy level you will need to implement a workout program. Make sure you consult your physician before you begin. Try to structure your program to fit your lifestyle and schedule. Be consistent and at first, try to exercise at least three to four times a week for at least 25 to 30 minutes. Another exercise idea might be to take a walk during your lunch hour.

Stress is at epidemic levels in our society today. Stress can contribute to many major health challenges such as heart disease, stroke and depression. Stress will rob you of your ability to function normally. Severe stress can cause you to have a loss of appetite, weight gain, insomnia, thoughts of suicide, loss of energy, exhaustion and fatigue. You must not only learn how to cope with stress, but also to manage it. A few things you can do in order to manage stress is to accept the fact that you can not control every situation, keep a positive attitude, get enough sleep, exercise regularly and do not abuse prescription drugs or alcohol consumption. Also, research, learn and practice relaxation techniques.

Chill out and learn to relax!  Vacations are a great way to re-charge your battery.  If that option is not possible, go play a round of golf, or go fishing or hunting, and for the ladies GO SHOPPING!   You might want to start a new hobby, take a yoga class or become active in your church.  Engage in any activity that is fun and relaxing for you.  It will pay big dividends by increasing your energy level and overall health.