Power up your body with these energy nutrients

Overcome low energy levels and feel recharged by supporting your body’s energy-producing ‘engines.’ Abundant energy and vitality can help lift mood, enhance our mental clarity as well as physical performance in our day-to-day life. Read our guide to the best nutrients to fuel your natural energy factories.

Research has shown that when your cells are low on energy and you feel run down, taking specific nutrients once or twice daily can restore cellular energy production and improve your energy levels within just a few weeks. They may also improve your sleep patterns, mood, mental clarity, while reducing muscle pain and overall well-being.

Powering your body’s energy factory

Your body’s  cellular energy production is considered to be dependent on a daily supply of nutrients that are required by your mitochondria. Mitochondria are referred to as your "cellular power factories" because they create the energy that fuels your brain and body. This is where the transformation of food into energy occurs.

With nutritional deficiencies so common, it is possible that your body isn’t getting the nutrients required to make the energy it needs. 

Below is a list of nutrients which can support you on your journey back to abundant energy.

D-Ribose

D-Ribose is a five-carbon sugar found in the structure of adenosine triphosphate (ATP). ATP is the energy molecule produced in the mitochondria. Supplementation with D-Ribose helps speed up the rebuilding process of depleted energy pools increasing the “Energy Charge” of our cells. Research on ribose has shown promising effects with supplementation significantly improving energy, sleep and mental clarity.

Acetyl-l-carnitine

Acetyl-l-carnitine is an amino acid that naturally produced by the body and plays a fundamental role in transporting fatty acids into mitochondria to use for the production of energy. Without carnitine, fatty acids cannot easily enter into mitochondria and therefore cells can only use sugar as an energy source. Supplementation with acetyl-l-carnitine was found to reduce symptoms such as fatigue and pain as well as improve cognitive function.

Co-Enzyme Q10

Co-enzyme Q10 (CoQ10) has gained popularity as a dietary supplement for fatigue because of its established role in cellular energy production. CoQ10 is a co-factor for the synthesis of adenosine triphosphate (ATP). Early studies on CoQ10 focused on its ability to reduce fatigue from exercise.

B Vitamins

B vitamins can help with mood and energy because they are vital for energy production in your body, and are important for your brain. A recent scientific analysis of eight studies found that multivitamin and mineral products, especially supplements containing higher amounts of B vitamins, reduced feelings of fatigue, stress, anxiety and confusion and also improved mood and general wellbeing.

Magnesium

This mineral is essential for the activity of the enzyme which is responsible for the formation of energy in cells. Where previously magnesium deficiency was rare due to adequate intakes of green leafy vegetables, nuts, seeds and grains, current over-processing of food means that magnesium intakes have significantly decreased in recent years.

Magnesium plays a key role in the processes that influence exercise including muscle function, oxygen delivery, energy production and electrolyte balance. Deficiency in magnesium is linked to tiredness and fatigue.

Malic acid

Malic acid is an organic compound made by all living organisms which enhances ATP production by providing a key step in the citric acid (Krebs) cycle.

When coupled alongside magnesium, malic acid has shown to improve symptoms of pain and tenderness associated with fibromyalgia. Apples are a naturally rich source of malic acid.

Find out more

Local independent health stores are a great starting place for supplements and dietary sources of energy. Staff are often trained and can provide you with advice on your individual needs. When choosing high quality supplements check the label and ensure they contain 100% active ingredients and no binders or fillers. To find your nearest store of wellness, visit: www.findahealthstore.com.

Author: Aimée Benbow, BSc (Hons), MSc, ANutr. is Head Nutritionist at Viridian Nutrition.


The information contained in this article is not intended to treat, diagnose or replace the advice of a health practitioner. Please consult a qualified health practitioner if you have a pre-existing health condition or are currently taking medication. Food supplements should not be used as a substitute for a varied and balanced diet.