If the dark and cold days, the shopping, the planning and cooking has taken
a toll on your energy levels and you don’t want to down a can of red bull (or two)
each day, then you may want to try one of the tips listed below.

The tips:
Sip water or eat some pie.
First, the water tips:
a) Salt Water-
Yes, it (salt) can raise blood pressure, but if you don’t have any problems
and you want to boost energy levels, add 1/4 tsp. of sea salt to a glass of water.
Believe it or not, it’s not the salt that’ll boost your energy levels, but it (salt) will help
make you thirstier and being thirstier means you’ll drink more water, which will increase
hydration and that is the key to raising energy levels.
Salt-containing liquids are up to 70% more hydrating than plain water.
Plus, sodium activates hormones that help the body absorb and retain fluids
more efficiently.
To make it work for you: When energy levels are low, get out the salt, add a little
to a glass of water and wait for the magic to happen.
Or before starting your day (in the morning) have a little salt water.

b) Candy Cane-
If you have any candy canes leftover, hold onto them and use them to
boost energy levels. Eating a candy cane (or popping a few mints)
can make you thirstier and quenching that thirst will help you increase
both your physical and mental stamina for a couple of hours. Researchers
say that a small dose of sugar stimulates the thirst mechanism in your
brain, automatically upping your urge to drink.

c) A Slice of Pie-
If salt water or a candy cane aren’t exactly appealing to you, how does
a slice of apple pie sound? Now that it’s the Christmas season and you’ve
given yourself permission to indulge, make it a slice of apple pie.
Why pie?
Fluid-rich fruit like apples release hydration slowly and steadily, which
means you’ll enjoy an increase of energy for 1 to 3 hours. And if
you want to save money and pass on a bakery pie, here’s a recipe
for a quick and simple Cinnamon-Spiced Apple Pie.
Ingredients:
1 package of 2-count pie crusts (find in the freezer section)
1/2 cup of granulated sugar
1/4 cup of brown sugar
6 cups of thinly sliced apples
1 Tbs. of butter
To make:
Preheat the oven to 400*F. Take out one pie crust and remove the
top layer, (leave the top layer alone or cut into 1″ strips to make Lattice strips)
In a large bowl, mix together the sugars and apples. Transfer the apples to the
pie plate. Top with the second crust (or lattice strips) top with the butter and
bake for 30 to 35 mins. Place the pie on a baking sheet (after assembling)
in case any spills should occur.
Enough for 6 good-sized slices or 8 small slices.
Important tip:
If calories are a concern and you don’t want the hassle of a bigger waistline,
just eat a plain apple (or two) each or bake an apple, (remove the top) and
sprinkle with cinnamon, ginger, a little nutmeg and a pat of butter. Bake
until softened and enjoy.

Sources:
* UCLA Research Team
* The Journal of Clinical Investigation
* German Nutritionists

Please pass this tip on to any family member or friend who struggles
to find extra energy this time of year.
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Thank-You!