Forget the coffee! Try these alternatives to keep yourself awake
- Replies 7
Staying up late can feel like a chore sometimes. We get it! Whether it's to finish off a TV show you've been binging or to be there for someone, late nights are hard work and can leave you feeling quite run down.
The natural move in these moments is to turn to that old faithful pick-me-up: coffee.
Caffeine does work. There's no denying it. Unfortunately, overconsumption of it can be potentially harmful, and it can have a negative impact on your overall sleep patterns, leading to exhaustion and reliance on caffeine to get through the day.
Therefore, while we appreciate that caffeine gets us through, it's probably best to keep alternatives in mind to try and break the cycle.
If you're eager to stay awake without caffeine or other chemical stimulants, here are other options you should consider.
1. Water and snacks
The first step is taking care of your body's energy needs with the proper nutrition and hydration. Dehydration is a common problem; approximately 80 per cent of Aussies don't consume enough water, which can lead to fatigue.
So, if you're sleepy, grab a glass of cold water. It can help increase alertness and improve overall sleep quality.
Then, since caffeine and sugar provide short-term solutions and not proper fuel for your body, it's better to opt for organic snacks instead. Eating a balanced combination of protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats helps maintain energy levels in the long term.
Examples include apples for natural sugar, salads for a vitamin B boost, and nuts and seeds for healthy calories and omega-3s.
2. Exercise and sunlight
Another excellent way to stay awake and alert is by physically exercising and exposing yourself to sunlight. A sunny 15-minute walk can work wonders for your alertness and overall energy levels!
It's also crucial to take regular breaks when tackling any task rather than relying solely on caffeine. Break up the monotony with some physical activity or a brief moment outdoors. It will help you stay alert and focused on the task at hand.
3. Power naps
If the priority is to avoid caffeinated beverages, then there's no shame in taking a power nap. You're usually better off with shorter naps (10-20 minutes), as longer ones (up to an hour) can be more effective earlier in the day.
However, it's really important not to overdo it, as that could cause further confusion. Set an alarm and stick to it, as it's always best to stay on track with your regular sleep/wake cycle.
Plus, those short naps can work wonders for your alertness and clarity without needing coffee!
So there you have it, members! Before reaching for that coffee to stay awake, consider these natural alternatives to keeping your eyes open.
After all, a healthy lifestyle is essential, and our diet should include a balanced combination of nutrients for sustained energy throughout the day instead of relying on caffeine for that energy hit.
Good luck! If you have more tips and tricks for a healthy lifestyle, please share them in the comments below!
The natural move in these moments is to turn to that old faithful pick-me-up: coffee.
Caffeine does work. There's no denying it. Unfortunately, overconsumption of it can be potentially harmful, and it can have a negative impact on your overall sleep patterns, leading to exhaustion and reliance on caffeine to get through the day.
Therefore, while we appreciate that caffeine gets us through, it's probably best to keep alternatives in mind to try and break the cycle.
If you're eager to stay awake without caffeine or other chemical stimulants, here are other options you should consider.
Caffeine is a short-term solution for staying awake. Credit: Shutterstock.
1. Water and snacks
The first step is taking care of your body's energy needs with the proper nutrition and hydration. Dehydration is a common problem; approximately 80 per cent of Aussies don't consume enough water, which can lead to fatigue.
So, if you're sleepy, grab a glass of cold water. It can help increase alertness and improve overall sleep quality.
Then, since caffeine and sugar provide short-term solutions and not proper fuel for your body, it's better to opt for organic snacks instead. Eating a balanced combination of protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats helps maintain energy levels in the long term.
Examples include apples for natural sugar, salads for a vitamin B boost, and nuts and seeds for healthy calories and omega-3s.
2. Exercise and sunlight
Another excellent way to stay awake and alert is by physically exercising and exposing yourself to sunlight. A sunny 15-minute walk can work wonders for your alertness and overall energy levels!
It's also crucial to take regular breaks when tackling any task rather than relying solely on caffeine. Break up the monotony with some physical activity or a brief moment outdoors. It will help you stay alert and focused on the task at hand.
3. Power naps
If the priority is to avoid caffeinated beverages, then there's no shame in taking a power nap. You're usually better off with shorter naps (10-20 minutes), as longer ones (up to an hour) can be more effective earlier in the day.
However, it's really important not to overdo it, as that could cause further confusion. Set an alarm and stick to it, as it's always best to stay on track with your regular sleep/wake cycle.
Plus, those short naps can work wonders for your alertness and clarity without needing coffee!
So there you have it, members! Before reaching for that coffee to stay awake, consider these natural alternatives to keeping your eyes open.
After all, a healthy lifestyle is essential, and our diet should include a balanced combination of nutrients for sustained energy throughout the day instead of relying on caffeine for that energy hit.
Good luck! If you have more tips and tricks for a healthy lifestyle, please share them in the comments below!
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I'll stick to my 2 to 4 cups off coffee 
and an afternoon nap 
