​Need an Energy Boost? Try These 6 Surefire Energizers

We all have those days when it's hard to get out of bed and even the smallest tasks seem insurmountable. When your energy is sapped, it's hard to get excited about life, much less grab it by the horns. Thankfully, you don't have to suffer until bedtime. Here are 6 surefire ways to boost your energy so that life feels do-able again.

1. Eat breakfast.

Breakfast really is the most important meal of the day. It's a great source of essential vitamins and minerals, it curbs your hunger later on, it helps prevent heart disease, and it revs up your metabolism for better fat burning during the day. When it comes to boosting your energy levels, eating breakfast is one of the best things you can do. After sleeping for seven to ten hours, your body has very little fuel left from the day before. Breakfast replenishes your energy stores for better concentration and motivation that will keep you going during your busy day.

2. Exercise.

You might think that exercising will sap your energy but getting a move on actually increases your energy levels. Exercise sends oxygen and essential nutrients to the cells in your body, feeding them and helping your heart and lungs work better. Next time you feel like reaching for a high-carb snack during your afternoon slump, take a walk around the block instead.

3. Lower your stress.

Stress can leave you feeling sapped and sluggish and reducing your stress will make a big difference in your energy levels. Combat stress daily by getting into the habit of doing deep breathing exercises several times a day. Deep breathing reduces the levels of stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline in your body and it delivers oxygen to your brain and other organs to help combat feelings of fatigue.

4. Drink more water.

Dehydration is a major culprit when it comes to having low energy. You can be dehydrated without knowing it, so make a point to drink plenty of water throughout the day. How much is "plenty?" Divide your body weight in half and drink at least that many ounces each day. If you have trouble downing that much water, try infusing it with citrus fruit, berries, or cucumbers for a tasty treat you'll want to keep reaching for.

5. Eat fewer simple carbs.

While carbohydrates provide your cells with fuel, too many simple carbs can leave you feeling sluggish and dull. Simple carbs are those that your body burns very quickly, resulting in a spike in blood sugar (which you may perceive as increased energy) followed shortly after by a dreaded crash as your blood sugar plummets. Cut back on sugar and processed foods like pasta and white bread, and instead increase your intake of complex carbs, such as nuts, oats, and brown rice, to supply your body with a steady stream of energy.

6. Eat a power snack.

When you're deep in a slump and feeling like all you want to do is take a long nap, turn to a healthy snack instead. Excellent snacks for an immediate energy boost include apples, berries, bananas, oranges, popcorn (avoid the microwave kind), a handful of nuts, or some yogurt with granola.