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7 Healthy Alternatives to Sugary Beverages: What Are Your Options?

  Do you want to cut down on your uptake of sugary drinks? Healthy alternatives include; pure water, coconut water, green tea, vegetable juice, and coffee. Photo by Charlotte May from Pexels Sugary drinks top the list of products with high added sugar content. Nearly 50% of sugar consumed in daily diets comes from beverages.  Shockingly, sugar-added drinks continue flooding the retail shelves and now occupy the slot of habitual refreshments. Yet, unknown to many, sugar-added beverages contain industrial additives that may be harmful if taken in excess.  There is enough medical evidence linking sugary beverages to lifestyle diseases, including diabetes, weight gain, heart complications, and dental cavities. Isn’t it time to cut down on diet cola drinks and start sipping healthier beverages? Here is a list of the best healthy alternatives to sugary drinks that’ll help you cut down on sugar intake. First off, what are sugary beverages? Sugar-sweetened beverages are liquid c...

 

4 Proven Ways to Stay Awake (Overnight) Even When You’re Exhausted

Sleeping while studying
Photo: Pixabay

Did you know that an adult aged 26–64 years old should sleep for not less than 7 hours? Now, that’s what the experts recommend. It would help if you had adequate sleep to stay healthy and keep your body fit.

The challenge, however, comes if you have to stay awake to study for an upcoming exam, work on the night shift, or any activity that temporarily hinders you from retiring to bed. The truth is: You need an extra boost of energy to fire you up throughout the long night.

Here are four foolproof tricks to keep you awake for longer nighttime.

#1. Take a Snack in Place of a Heavy Meal



A snack of berries
A snack of berries: Pixabay

In a 2019 research by The University of South Australia, researchers examined some participants to determine the effect of food intake on their level of sleepiness. The study compared the impact of eating a heavy meal, snack, or not having food at all.

Incredibly, taking a simple snack was the most effective way to maximize alertness when tired. 

So, if you want to stay alert after a long, tiresome day, a light snack or fruit will play a pivotal role. Some good snacks you may try out include Yogurt, fresh fruit, and celery sticks.

#2. Keep Your Body Hydrated

Water is essential for the proper functioning of all body functions and organs, such as the brain. Your brain contains nerve cells that play a crucial role in regulating arousal and sleep patterns. Yet, the same organ requires adequate water to function correctly.


A glass of water
Photo: Pixabay

Be sure to drink enough water and other fluids to keep your mental health in check. But how much is enough? Well, the general rule of thumb is to drink 2–3 cups of water every hour, or slightly higher if you experience heaving sweating.

#3. Take a Nap During Daytime

An easier way to overcome sleepiness is to nap during the day. After your usual 7 hours of sleep, a nap in between your typical day won’t do any harm. Instead, it reduces the body’s sleep drive and helps you stay awake.

However, when napping, be sure to keep it not too close to your bedtime. The best recommend time for a nap is about 6–7 hours before your usual bedtime.

#4. Keep Your Conversations Alive

Mutual Studying
Photo: Pixabay

Did you know that an active conversation increases your chances of being alert? This strategy works so well if you are in an industry setting with multiple workmates by your side.

Similarly, if you’re studying, consider doing social studying in which you talk through a study session with a friend, study group, or classmate.

The trick is to avoid giving your brain a sense of relaxation and calm. So, to achieve this, you better keep your conversations alive.

Winding Up: Are You Ready to Burn the Midnight Oil?

Staying awake at night may sometimes be tedious, primarily if you’re used to a regular sleep schedule. But having some quality rest during the day will help you rejuvenate and stay alert for your night errands.

In addition, you may take a rest, have a cup of coffee, a light snack, or assorted fluids for remarkable results. However, if you experience chronic sleepiness, consult a healthcare provider.



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