At this time of year, with winter and the stress of Christmas and new year fast approaching, increasingly cold weather and dark nights - it is quite common to feel lacking in energy and a bit lethargic. With that in mind we have put together a list of our favourite supplements recommended to fight fatigue and give your energy levels a boost.
NADH - Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide + Hydrogen is a coenzyme of Vitamin B3 (Niacin) in its reduced form, playing a part in the metabolism and cellular respiration processes that generate energy. NADH is a strong reducing agent for redox reactions, which assists in the transfer of electrons to the mitochondria of the cells so they can produce ATP – the chemical needed to harvest energy. One NADH molecule yields 3 molecules of ATP, providing energy to the brain, nerves, muscles and heart. You might consider adding NADH into your daily regime when trying to maintain your energy levels and keep up with extra demands you are putting on your body.
Co Enzyme Q10 - Co-Enzyme Q10 is a powerful antioxidant present in all human tissues and organs and is a vitamin-like nutrient that plays a crucial role in the production of energy in your cells. It is stored in mitochondria and is used in processes during the synthesis of ATP (the basic form of cellular energy). The highest amounts are found in the organs that require the most energy, helping them to function properly, but tissue levels of CoQ10, and the body’s ability to produce it naturally declines as we age.
Additionally, as an antioxidant CoQ10 helps to protect cells against damage from toxic free radicals, and plays significant roles in supporting and boosting the functioning of the immune system because of the high energy needs of the cells involved, very important at this time of year. A typical adult daily dose is 100mg, but it can be very difficult to get this level every day from food intake alone, so you might want to consider taking a capsule daily.
Vitamin B12 - Vitamin B12 is an essential Vitamin that is needed by the body and must be obtained through the diet. It contributes towards normal energy yielding metabolism and the reduction of tiredness and fatigue.
The importance of the roles it plays means without enough people can develop anaemia which can lead to a lack of energy, leaving you feeling exhaustion and fatigued. Largely found in animal sourced foods such as meat and dairy, B12 can often be found to be lacking in many vegetarian or vegan diets. To safeguard against deficiencies Vitamin B12 capsules are an easy and convenient way to ensure you get enough of this vital vitamin in your diet.
Ashwagandha – This adaptogenic herb has been widely recognised since ancient times. It has traditionally been used for its rejuvenating and restorative benefits and is said to boost the immune system as well as reduce stress and fatigue. By modulating the body's cortisol levels and the response to stress and changing environments, it helps the body to maintain its fine balance in order to cope with external and internal stresses we face. It may be of particular help around this time of year given the additional pressures and challenges we often encounter throughout the festive season.
It is also more common during the run up to Christmas for people to suffer with insomnia and anxiety. Studies have shown Ashwagandha can improve sleep quality as well as sleep onset latency (the time it takes to fall asleep) demonstrating it to be a potential treatment for adults[¹]. Good quality sleep and improved sleep patterns can help us to avoid fatigue and handle stress.
KSM-66® Ashwagandha meets the highest quality standards. It is derived only from the roots of the plant, and extensive research & development have led to a unique extraction process that makes it the highest concentration full spectrum extract on the market.
So, there you have our top recommendations for supplements to increase your energy levels and help you to thrive throughout the winter and the Christmas period. You can visit our website www.hellenia.co.uk if you would like to browse our online shop or see any further product details.
