Recipe: Pomegranate Blueberry Smoothie

How to Stay Energized Throughout the Day Using these 10 Tips {"type":"root","children":[{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"Do you find yourself struggling with low energy levels, battling through those dreaded afternoon slumps, and constantly seeking ways to boost your energy throughout the day? If so, you're not alone. We all know that feeling when our energy reserves hit rock bottom, and the day still has miles to go. The challenges of fatigue can be overwhelming, and the desire for sustained strength is a universal one. Whether it's staying focused at work, enjoying quality time with loved ones, pursuing your passions, or simply savoring life's precious moments, having sustained energy is essential for all of it."}]},{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"In this post, we'll delve into the significance of maintaining optimal energy levels so that you can say goodbye to sluggish afternoons and hello to sustained energy that powers you through your day, allowing you to thrive in every aspect of life. We'll explore a variety of strategies and practical tips to help you reclaim your vitality, boost your productivity, and make the most of each moment. "}]}]} {"type":"root","children":[{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"From the role of nutrition and exercise to the importance of stress management and quality sleep, we'll uncover the keys to unlocking your full potential and experiencing life with boundless energy and focus. By using some of these tips you just might be able to unlock the door to conquering fatigue and embrace a life filled with sustained vigor and zest!"}]}]} Take Ethan’s Clean Energy Shots for Sustained Energy & Focus {"type":"root","children":[{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"Sometimes we just need a little boost in our day and it’s OK to get them from “outside” sources. You do, however, want to look for natural ingredients that will keep you energized throughout the day. When someone thinks of an energy supplement the first thought that comes to mind is "},{"url":"https://ethans.com/blogs/recipes/how-to-get-energy-without-coffee","type":"link","children":[{"type":"text","value":"caffeine"}]},{"type":"text","value":". Caffeine does play a role in assisting the body to enhance focus and endurance but look for sources that occur naturally like green tea or guayusa ("},{"type":"link","url":"https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33345139/","title":null,"target":null,"children":[{"type":"text","value":"1"}]},{"type":"text","value":"). "}]},{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"Adaptogens can also boost energy levels and increase physical and mental stamina ("},{"type":"link","url":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6240259/","title":null,"target":null,"children":[{"type":"text","value":"2"}]},{"type":"text","value":"). They counteract the fatigue often associated with chronic stress, helping you stay energized and focused. Some examples include ashwagandha and rhodiola. "}]}]} Prioritize Quality Sleep {"type":"root","children":[{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"Prioritizing consistent sleep helps regulate your body's internal clock, known as the circadian rhythm. When your circadian rhythm is well-aligned, you experience peaks and troughs in alertness and sleepiness at predictable times ("},{"type":"link","url":"https://nigms.nih.gov/education/fact-sheets/Pages/circadian-rhythms.aspx","title":null,"target":null,"children":[{"type":"text","value":"3"}]},{"type":"text","value":") . This alignment reduces the likelihood of experiencing an intense afternoon slump."}]},{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"Quality sleep supports sustained energy levels throughout the day. When you sleep well, your body has the opportunity to recharge, repair tissues, and replenish energy stores. As a result, you're less likely to experience "},{"url":"https://ethans.com/blogs/recipes/how-to-stay-awake-in-class","type":"link","children":[{"type":"text","value":"energy crashes"}]},{"type":"text","value":" in the afternoon."}]}]} Natural Light Exposure {"type":"root","children":[{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"Exposure to natural light during the day, especially in the morning, helps regulate your body's circadian rhythm. Sunlight contains blue light, which suppresses melatonin production (a hormone that promotes sleepiness) and signals your body to be awake and alert ("},{"type":"link","url":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7065627/","title":null,"target":null,"children":[{"type":"text","value":"4"}]},{"type":"text","value":"). This natural light exposure can help you feel more awake and energized during the day. "}]}]} Eat a Balanced Breakfast {"type":"root","children":[{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"A "},{"url":"https://ethans.com/blogs/recipes/best-breakfast-before-a-test","type":"link","children":[{"type":"text","value":"balanced breakfast"}]},{"type":"text","value":" with complex carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats can help stabilize your blood sugar levels. This prevents the energy crashes that can occur when you consume sugary or high-carb breakfasts, which can lead to feelings of fatigue and irritability. It helps with memory recall, concentration and energy ("},{"type":"link","url":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4863263/","title":null,"target":null,"children":[{"type":"text","value":"5"}]},{"type":"text","value":"). "}]},{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"It can be as simple as a hard boiled egg [or if you are vegan, scrambled tofu] on toast, with some avocado and cheese for that boost of protein and flavor at breakfast time. "}]}]} Power of Breaks {"type":"root","children":[{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"Continuous work or focus on tasks for extended periods can deplete your mental energy and lead to reduced concentration and productivity. Short breaks give your mind a chance to rest and recharge, making you more alert and effective when you return to your tasks."}]},{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"As a matter of fact research suggests that those who take a break requiring some movement increase vigor and relaxation, plus decrease in fatigue ("},{"type":"link","url":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6585675/","title":null,"target":null,"children":[{"type":"text","value":"6"}]},{"type":"text","value":")."}]}]} Listen to Music {"type":"root","children":[{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"Listening to music can be a powerful tool for boosting your energy, mood, and focus, depending on the type of music you choose and the context in which you listen."}]},{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"When engaged in physical activities like exercise or housework, music with a strong beat can synchronize with your movements and boost your physical performance, making tasks feel less strenuous ("},{"type":"link","url":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5435671/","title":null,"target":null,"children":[{"type":"text","value":"7"}]},{"type":"text","value":"). "}]}]} Regular Exercise {"type":"root","children":[{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"Exercise increases blood flow throughout your body, including to your brain. This improved circulation delivers more oxygen and nutrients to brain cells, which can enhance cognitive function and mental clarity ("},{"type":"link","url":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3951958/","title":null,"target":null,"children":[{"type":"text","value":"8"}]},{"type":"text","value":")."}]},{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"It also can help with mood swings and reduce symptoms of depression and "},{"url":"https://ethans.com/blogs/recipes/does-caffeine-cause-anxiety","type":"link","children":[{"type":"text","value":"anxiety"}]},{"type":"text","value":". Point blank, when you’re happier you can have better concentration and focus!"}]}]} Stress Management {"type":"root","children":[{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"Chronic stress triggers the release of stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline, which can lead to physical and mental fatigue ("},{"type":"link","url":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK541120/?report=reader#_NBK541120_pubdet_","title":null,"target":null,"children":[{"type":"text","value":"9"}]},{"type":"text","value":"). Stress management techniques, such as relaxation exercises, mindfulness, or meditation, help reduce the production of these hormones, leading to decreased fatigue and increased energy."}]},{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"\nA great strategy to help manage stress throughout the day can be as simple as breath work. A great example is called box breathing which can be to breathe in for 5 seconds, hold for 5 seconds and breath out for 5 seconds. This can be a simple strategy used anywhere. "}]}]} Stay Social {"type":"root","children":[{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"Humans are really social beings. Engaging in conversations and social activities can stimulate your brain and keep it active. "}]},{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"Interacting with friends and loved ones provides emotional support, which can help reduce stress and improve your overall mood. When these interactions take place your body releases oxytocin which increases trust, and social memory ("},{"type":"link","url":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6784812/","title":null,"target":null,"children":[{"type":"text","value":"10"}]},{"type":"text","value":"). This helps to reduce stress levels and contribute to better energy management and mental clarity."}]}]} Staying Hydrated {"type":"root","children":[{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"The brain is highly sensitive to changes in hydration. Dehydration can lead to reduced cognitive function, including impaired memory, attention, and decision-making. Staying hydrated ensures that your brain has the necessary fluids to function optimally ("},{"type":"link","url":"https://bmcmedicine.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12916-023-02771-4#:~:text=The%20authors%20concluded%20that%20despite,body%20mass%20loss%20%5B76%5D.","title":null,"target":null,"children":[{"type":"text","value":"11"}]},{"type":"text","value":"). "}]},{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"Dehydration can cause brain fog, difficulty concentrating, and a decline in mental clarity. Proper hydration helps maintain mental sharpness and alertness, allowing you to stay focused on tasks and make better decisions."}]}]} Final Takeaway {"type":"root","children":[{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"In the quest to maintain optimal energy levels throughout the day, there are a variety of strategies and practices that can make a significant difference. From the importance of quality sleep to the benefits of natural light exposure, balanced breakfasts, and the rejuvenating power of breaks, there are many tools at your disposal. "}]},{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"Incorporating regular exercise, effective stress management techniques like breathwork, and staying socially engaged can further bolster your energy and focus. And don't forget the role of hydration in keeping your brain sharp and alert. So, whether it's Ethan's Clean Energy Shots or these holistic approaches, you have a range of options to bid farewell to sluggish afternoons and welcome sustained energy to power through your day with vibrancy and purpose."}]}]}

{"type":"root","children":[{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"Let’s be honest. We don’t always make the best choices when we’re tired or stressed. When we’re exhausted, energy drinks can be our saving grace. But, they’re not all created equal. The ingredients in energy drinks can vary "},{"type":"text","value":"a lot","italic":true},{"type":"text","value":". "}]},{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"As lovers of energy drinks, this is actually a good thing! "}]},{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"Gone are the days when our only options were big cans of overly sweet concoctions with questionable additives. To be clear, those drinks are still widely available. But now there’s competition from brands that mindfully choose ingredients to support overall health."}]},{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"Here’s what definitely "},{"type":"text","value":"doesn’t ","italic":true},{"type":"text","value":"support long-term health and "},{"url":"https://ethans.com/blogs/recipes/best-nootropics-for-energy","type":"link","children":[{"type":"text","value":"focused energy"}]},{"type":"text","value":"—a chemical called sucralose. It’s an artificial sweetener commonly added to energy drinks to up the sweetness factor without the calories of actual sugar. "}]}]} {"type":"root","children":[{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"This might sound like ideal, but sucralose can be a big problem. The FDA says it’s completely safe, but we’ll explain how it can actually contribute to "},{"url":"https://ethans.com/blogs/recipes/do-energy-drinks-make-you-gain-weight","type":"link","children":[{"type":"text","value":"weight gain"}]},{"type":"text","value":", wreak havoc on your gut, and more."}]},{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"But don’t worry. If you want to choose better, you can. The best part? You don’t even have to sacrifice taste! In fact, healthy energy drinks taste better than ever and there’s one to suit every palate. "}]},{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"So before grabbing the first drink your bleary eyes can find under the fluorescent light of your corner store, we suggest two things: "}]},{"listType":"unordered","type":"list","children":[{"type":"list-item","children":[{"type":"text","value":"Know your options when it comes to energy drinks—we’ll offer some sucralose-free drink alternatives below (spoiler alert: one is Ethan’s Clean Energy Shots)."}]},{"type":"list-item","children":[{"type":"text","value":"Plan ahead and stock up on your drink of choice so you don't have to settle for the only thing available. "}]}]}]} What’s Wrong With Sucralose {"type":"root","children":[{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"First things first. We can’t encourage you to give up sucralose-laden drinks without making a convincing case against it. Also, we realize you may not even have realized your go-to "},{"url":"https://ethans.com/blogs/recipes/why-do-energy-drinks-make-me-tired","type":"link","children":[{"type":"text","value":"energy drink"}]},{"type":"text","value":" had sucralose. That’s ok! It’s why we’re here. "}]},{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"Sucralose (marketed under the name Splenda) is an artificial, non-nutritive sweetener made in a lab. It’s 600 times sweeter than real sugar with almost no calories. Newer on the market than saccharin and aspartame, it’s now the most popular fake sweetener and is added to an array of different food and beverage products. ("},{"type":"link","url":"https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/sucralose-good-or-bad","title":null,"target":null,"children":[{"type":"text","value":"1"}]},{"type":"text","value":")"}]},{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"Reporting on a study from 2022, Harvard Health notes, "}]},{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"“Numerous small studies have hinted at potential health problems, including a higher risk of cancer, kidney disease, and heart disease. Now, a large study has found a potential link between artificial sweeteners and an increased risk of strokes, heart attacks, and related cardiovascular problems.” ("},{"type":"link","url":"https://www.health.harvard.edu/heart-health/sugar-substitutes-new-cardiovascular-concerns","title":null,"target":null,"children":[{"type":"text","value":"2"}]},{"type":"text","value":")"}]},{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"Scientists have identified at least three main problems with sucralose:"}]},{"type":"heading","level":3,"children":[{"type":"text","value":"Sucralose Can Contribute To Weight Gain"}]},{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"The idea behind a low-calorie sweetener is to trick your brain into thinking it’s getting a dose of sugary goodness, but without the unwanted side effects like weight gain and spikes in blood glucose. "}]},{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"But the research shows this logic might be flawed and that sucralose can actually contribute to weight gain in at least three ways ("},{"type":"link","url":"https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0002916522029665?via%3Dihub","title":null,"target":null,"children":[{"type":"text","value":"3"}]},{"type":"text","value":"):"}]},{"listType":"unordered","type":"list","children":[{"type":"list-item","children":[{"type":"text","value":"It makes your brain crave intense sweetness which makes you less likely to choose foods or drinks that aren’t sweet."}]},{"type":"list-item","children":[{"type":"text","value":"Even though sucralose isn’t sugar, it still can cause spikes in blood glucose the way real sugar does."}]},{"type":"list-item","children":[{"type":"text","value":"Consuming sucralose can disrupt your metabolism."}]}]},{"type":"heading","level":3,"children":[{"type":"text","value":"It Disrupts Gut Health"}]},{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"We now know sucralose doesn’t pass through the digestive system completely unnoticed as once believed. It doesn’t have any nutritional value, but it does trigger changes within the gut microbiome."}]},{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"The balance of good and bad organisms in your gut determines more than just your bathroom habits. Your mood, digestion, immunity, nervous system, metabolism, and ability to detox can all be affected. So, consuming sucralose poses a risk to your overall health you may not be willing to take. ("},{"type":"link","url":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9029443/","title":null,"target":null,"children":[{"type":"text","value":"4"}]},{"type":"text","value":")"}]},{"type":"heading","level":3,"children":[{"type":"text","value":"Cooking With Sucralose Can Be Dangerous"}]},{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"When heated, sucralose produces harmful chemicals that have been linked to cancer. This is especially troubling because it’s often used in baked goods. "}]},{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"According to studies, heating sucralose creates toxic chlorinated compounds called chloropropanols and dioxins. These compounds are thought to contribute to cancer. ("},{"type":"link","url":"https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0308814609005378","title":null,"target":null,"children":[{"type":"text","value":"5"}]},{"type":"text","value":")"}]},{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"We go more in-depth about the safety concerns around sucralose in "},{"type":"link","url":"https://ethans.com/blogs/recipes/what-is-sucralose","title":null,"target":null,"children":[{"type":"text","value":"this article"}]},{"type":"text","value":". (It’s pretty scary.)"}]}]} Top Energy Drinks Without Sucralose {"type":"root","children":[{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"Without further ado, here’s a round up of five great-tasting energy drinks that don’t contain sucralose. Some do contain other types of natural sweeteners you might not want, so as a general rule, it’s always a good idea to read labels for yourself."}]}]} {"type":"root","children":[{"type":"heading","level":3,"children":[{"type":"text","value":"Ethan’s Clean Energy Shots & Powder"}]},{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"Not only are these energy shots formulated without sucralose, they actually have no added sugar at all apart from a tiny bit of fruit juice. Packing a "},{"url":"https://ethans.com/blogs/recipes/how-to-stay-energized-throughout-the-day","type":"link","children":[{"type":"text","value":"punch of energy"}]},{"type":"text","value":" without the jitters, it has 150mg of caffeine derived from green tea and guayusa."}]},{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"But this isn’t your typical energy supplement. Ethan’s products include "},{"type":"link","url":"https://ethans.com/blogs/recipes/best-nootropics-for-energy","title":null,"target":null,"children":[{"type":"text","value":"Lion’s Mane and Cordyceps mushrooms"}]},{"type":"text","value":"—two other incredible nootropics that help you sustain mental focus and physical stamina. (And no, these energy shots "},{"type":"text","value":"do not ","italic":true},{"type":"text","value":"taste like mushrooms.)"}]},{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"According to nootropic specialist Dr. Sarah Swanberg,"}]},{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"“Besides supporting clarity and focus, nootropic mushrooms have antioxidants to protect cells from damage that comes with aging. They allow you to perform better in the moment and preserve your ability to learn and recall information down the road.” ("},{"type":"link","url":"https://www.indigowellnessgroup.com/our-team","title":null,"target":null,"children":[{"type":"text","value":"6"}]},{"type":"text","value":")"}]},{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"Another perk? They come in 2-ounce portions so you won’t have to guzzle a ton of liquid to get the pep you’re after. If you prefer a drink with more volume, just mix a packet of Ethan’s Clean Energy Powder into 4-8 ounces of water or juice. "}]},{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"All four flavors taste amazing and, well, "},{"type":"text","value":"clean","italic":true},{"type":"text","value":"! They also aren’t overloaded with lots of unnecessary ingredients like other energy products. This organic formula contains just B-vitamins, some electrolytes, and Ethan’s proprietary energy and focus blend of caffeine and nootropics."}]},{"type":"heading","children":[{"type":"text","value":"Energy Drink #2 - Kill Cliff "}],"level":3},{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"These energy drinks were formulated with U.S. Navy Seals in mind. Us mortals can still enjoy them without having to endure grueling training drills, though. The inclusion of CBD in some of the products makes this line of energy drinks different from the others on the list."}]},{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"Kill Cliff offers a few different flavors and formulations. One thing in common is that they’re all sweetened with erythritol, a naturally occurring “sugar alcohol”. Even though erythritol is natural, some people report digestive issues like bloating and discomfort after consuming it. ("},{"type":"link","url":"https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/erythritol#TOC_TITLE_HDR_2","title":null,"target":null,"children":[{"type":"text","value":"7"}]},{"type":"text","value":") "}]},{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"Low caffeine alert","italic":true},{"type":"text","value":"—The caffeine in Kill Cliff drinks is far less than the others on the list. They contain just 25 mg of caffeine combined with electrolytes and nootropic ginseng. "}]},{"type":"heading","level":3,"children":[{"type":"text","value":"Energy Drink #3 - Scheckter’s Organic Energy"}]},{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"Scheckter’s Organic Energy drinks are light, fresh and bubbly. Kind of like your favorite seltzer with some added oomph. This company uses real, old-fashioned sugar to sweeten most of their drinks and opts for a touch of agave in the “lite” version."}]},{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"Is agave better than sugar? Not necessarily. Since it’s made of fructose (fruit sugar), the body handles it differently. But too much of any kind of sugar can raise blood glucose and insulin levels. In this case, the amount of agave seems reasonable and not likely to cause issues in people who generally limit their sugar intake. "}]},{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"The caffeine in Scheckter’s drinks is also relatively low. They contain just 32 mg derived from green tea, guayusa, and coffee bean extract. However, the addition of ginseng can help with physical stamina and mental acuity."}]},{"type":"heading","level":3,"children":[{"type":"text","value":"Energy Drink #4 - EBOOST Super Fuel"}]},{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"EBOOST’s Super Fuel comes in four fruity flavors. The cans contain almost 12 ounces of liquid which could be heavy and inconvenient to carry. Or just be more liquid than you feel like drinking. "}]},{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"Luckily, like Ethan’s, EBOOST is considerate to those among us who prefer to throw a packet of powder in our bags and get on with our day."}]},{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"There are a lot of ingredients in EBOOST’s energy drinks, and the website asserts it’s also meant to be like a multivitamin. Check the label to make sure you actually want to consume these particular vitamins and minerals. "}]},{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"Caffeine from green tea and coffee bean extract is combined with nootropics like L-tyrosine and L-theanine. "}]},{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"To sweeten this drink, EBOOST uses steviol glycosides (the food-safe version of the stevia plant). Stevia is considered natural and safe, but like with all non-nutritive sweeteners, it may not be the best choice for everyone. It could cause digestive issues, low blood sugar, and hormone imbalances in some people. ("},{"type":"link","url":"https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/319837#risks-and-side-effects","title":null,"target":null,"children":[{"type":"text","value":"8"}]},{"type":"text","value":")"}]},{"type":"heading","level":3,"children":[{"type":"text","value":"Energy Drink #5 - GURU Organic Energy Original & Lite"}]},{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"The original GURU energy drink tastes great if you have a sweet tooth. And it should, because it packs 30 grams of sugar into a 12-ounce can. That’s almost as much as a can of soda! However, if you want a little treat without all the sweet, you can get these in 8-ounce cans."}]},{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"GURU also offers a “lite” version with only 4 grams of sugar and 25 calories. The issue with this? It’s sweetened by stevia which, as we learned, could be a bad choice for some people. "}]},{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"The lite version also contains luo han guo (monk fruit) extract, another natural sugar alternative that is great for some and troublesome for others. It’s considered safe in moderation but like any sweetener, can create a dependence on overly sweet food. ("},{"type":"link","url":"https://health.clevelandclinic.org/why-you-should-use-monk-fruit-sweetener/","title":null,"target":null,"children":[{"type":"text","value":"9"}]},{"type":"text","value":")"}]},{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"Like a few other products on this list, GURU adds the adaptogenic nootropic ginseng to work synergistically with caffeine from green tea and guarana."}]}]} {"type":"root","children":[{"type":"heading","level":2,"children":[{"type":"text","value":"Conclusion"}]},{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"Energy can be in short supply at times. What’s not lacking anymore is the number of options you have when choosing an energy drink. "}]},{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"“Energy drink” doesn’t have to equate to something you feel guilty about, and drinking them doesn’t have to diminish your health. In fact, some can actually "},{"type":"text","value":"support","italic":true},{"type":"text","value":" overall health and well-being while helping you improve energy, stamina and focus."}]},{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"The best example? Ethan’s Clean Energy Shots.","bold":true}]},{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"Ethan’s Clean Energy Shots don’t just contain the caffeine that gives you the boost you’re after, they also have two other stand-out nootropics—Lion’s Mane and Cordyceps mushrooms. These nootropics work together with the caffeine to enhance its effects and offer a long list of health benefits of their own."}]},{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"What about taste? All the energy drinks listed here taste great…"},{"type":"text","value":"without sucralose","italic":true},{"type":"text","value":". Some are heavily sweetened with real sugar, and others use sugar alcohols and other natural low-cal sweeteners. "}]},{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"Ethan’s prefers to keep it clean. Just a splash of fruit juice so you don’t have to worry about tainting your taste buds or dealing with unpleasant side effects. So go away, guilt! You’re not welcome here anymore."}]},{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"You have the power to choose wisely. Visit "},{"type":"link","url":"https://ethans.com/","title":null,"target":null,"children":[{"type":"text","value":"Ethan’s.com"}]},{"type":"text","value":" and stock up so you always have "},{"type":"text","value":"clean","italic":true},{"type":"text","value":" energy on hand when you need it."}]}]}

{"type":"root","children":[{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"Despite nodding off and struggling to keep their eyes open, many overly confident drivers still get behind the wheel of a car ⸺ ignoring the warning signs of fatigue. Falling asleep behind the wheel is often taken less seriously than driving drunk but can, unfortunately, have the same consequences. Even if you don’t actually fall asleep, the chances you’ll swerve off the road and hit something or someone are high. Taking good care of your body by maintaining healthy habits can help prevent drowsy driving. Some healthy habits include getting enough sleep, eating well, and using natural caffeine sources like Ethan’s clean energy shots to enhance your focus, "},{"type":"link","url":"https://ethans.com/blogs/recipes/how-to-get-energy-without-coffee","title":null,"target":null,"children":[{"type":"text","value":"energy"}]},{"type":"text","value":" levels, and attention. Keep reading to discover the dangers of driving drowsy and how to stay awake for safer steering."}]}]} The Dangers of Drowsy Driving {"type":"root","children":[{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"Whether you’re exhausted from a late "},{"type":"link","url":"https://ethans.com/blogs/recipes/7-tips-on-how-to-stay-awake-on-night-shift","title":null,"target":null,"children":[{"type":"text","value":"night shift"}]},{"type":"text","value":", binging TV shows, or staying up with a newborn, the dangerous effects can be the same. Driving while tired can cause accidents that increase your car insurance policy and, in tragic cases, cause harm and fatality."}]}]} {"type":"root","children":[{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"In 2017, drowsy driving led to  91,000 crashes, 50,000 injuries, and almost 800 deaths, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation ("},{"type":"link","url":"https://www.nhtsa.gov/risky-driving/drowsy-driving","title":null,"target":null,"children":[{"type":"text","value":"1"}]},{"type":"text","value":"). And sleep deprivation doesn’t just lead to falling asleep on the road but also impacts your brain function and decision-making skills. A 2023 review published in the "},{"type":"text","value":"Nature and Science of Sleep ","italic":true},{"type":"text","value":"saw significant sleep reductions in driving performance after a single night of four or five hours of sleep ("},{"type":"link","url":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10082604/","title":null,"target":null,"children":[{"type":"text","value":"2"}]},{"type":"text","value":"). So, you may be more apt to make riskier decisions behind the wheel when you’re short on shut-eye. Here are some ways to remain alert on any car ride."}]}]} 8 Tips for Staying Awake and Alert While Driving {"type":"root","children":[{"type":"heading","level":3,"children":[{"type":"text","value":"1. Get sufficient sleep"}]},{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"Keep your brain functioning at its best by getting a full night of rest. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), adults need at least seven hours of sleep every night ("},{"type":"link","url":"https://www.cdc.gov/sleep/features/getting-enough-sleep.html","title":null,"target":null,"children":[{"type":"text","value":"3"}]},{"type":"text","value":"). But getting sufficient sleep can be easier said than done. To increase your chances of proper slumber, try exercising regularly, avoid electronics an hour before bed, and make your bedroom an environment of quiet, dim light, and relaxation. The National Sleep Foundation says drivers who sleep for seven to nine hours at night are less likely to drive drowsy and stay safe ("},{"type":"link","url":"https://www.thensf.org/drowsy-driving-prevention/","title":null,"target":null,"children":[{"type":"text","value":"4"}]},{"type":"text","value":")."}]},{"type":"heading","level":3,"children":[{"type":"text","value":" 2. Fuel up with nutritious food"}]},{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"Certain foods are more likely to zap your energy than others, so eating nutrient-dense foods can equip your body to stay alert while driving. You’ll want to eat a combination of foods to help keep your blood sugars balanced versus spiking, leading to an energy crash and sleepiness. Foods high in carbohydrates, like muffins and cookies that lack protein and fiber, can lead to these blood sugar spikes. But, if you instead ate half of the muffin with boiled eggs and blueberries, offering protein and fiber, you can improve your blood sugar balance and promote sustained energy over time. "}]},{"type":"heading","level":3,"children":[{"type":"text","value":"3. Caffeine up"}]},{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"It doesn’t take much "},{"type":"link","url":"https://ethans.com/blogs/recipes/how-long-does-it-take-for-caffeine-to-kick-in","title":null,"target":null,"children":[{"type":"text","value":"time for caffeine to kick in"}]},{"type":"text","value":", so drinking "},{"type":"link","url":"https://ethans.com/products/organic-energy-shot)","title":null,"target":null,"children":[{"type":"text","value":"Ethan’s clean energy shot"}]},{"type":"text","value":" 15 to 30 minutes before driving can help boost your alertness and prevent drowsiness during your trip.  Ethan’s clean energy shot contains a unique proprietary blend of natural caffeine derived from real plants that give you the focus you need to reach your destination,  minus the jitters."}]}]} {"type":"root","children":[{"type":"heading","level":3,"children":[{"type":"text","value":"4. Hydrate yourself"}]},{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"It’s no surprise water is essential to life, but did you know falling short of your water needs could impact your driving? According to a 2019 review published in "},{"type":"link","url":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6356561/","title":null,"target":null,"children":[{"type":"text","value":"Nutrients","italic":true}]},{"type":"text","value":", dehydration can affect alertness and fatigue, two things everyone needs on the road ("},{"type":"link","url":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6356561/","title":null,"target":null,"children":[{"type":"text","value":"5"}]},{"type":"text","value":"). The "},{"type":"link","url":"https://nap.nationalacademies.org/read/10925/chapter/6#102","title":null,"target":null,"children":[{"type":"text","value":"National Academy of Medicine"}]},{"type":"text","value":" encourages 13 cups of water daily for healthy men and nine cups for healthy women ("},{"type":"link","url":"https://nap.nationalacademies.org/read/10925/chapter/6#102","title":null,"target":null,"children":[{"type":"text","value":"6"}]},{"type":"text","value":"). Filling up a water bottle with ice-cold water and taking it with you wherever you go can help. Moreover, snacking on water-rich foods such as yogurt, strawberries, and tomatoes can enhance hydration, too."}]},{"type":"heading","level":3,"children":[{"type":"text","value":"5. Stimulate your mind"}]},{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"Listening to music or an audiobook or streaming your favorite podcast may activate your mind for wakefulness in the driver’s seat."}]},{"type":"heading","level":3,"children":[{"type":"text","value":"6. Chew gum"}]},{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"A stick of gum may go beyond freshening your breath but help you drive if you’re sleepy by keeping you more attentive, according to BioMed Research International ("},{"type":"link","url":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4449949/","title":null,"target":null,"children":[{"type":"text","value":"7"}]},{"type":"text","value":"). One older, small study of 50 people found gum chewing helped improve fatigue ("},{"type":"link","url":"https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21866229/","title":null,"target":null,"children":[{"type":"text","value":"8"}]},{"type":"text","value":"). "}]},{"type":"heading","level":3,"children":[{"type":"text","value":"7. Take breaks "}]},{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"According to the CDC, frequent yawning, lane drifting, and difficulty remembering parts of your drive are telltale signs that you’re driving drowsy ("},{"type":"link","url":"https://www.cdc.gov/sleep/features/drowsy-driving.html","title":null,"target":null,"children":[{"type":"text","value":"9"}]},{"type":"text","value":"). Eliminate these risks by ensuring you’re taking breaks, no matter how short your journey may seem."}]},{"type":"heading","level":3,"children":[{"type":"text","value":"8. Open the windows or crank the A/C"}]},{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"Letting the windows down or blasting your air conditioning may create enough noise and stimulation to prevent falling asleep while driving."}]}]} Conclusion {"type":"root","children":[{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"Drowsy driving is dangerous and can cause accidents, injuries, and even death. According to the National Sleep Foundation, 95 percent of Americans agree that driving while sleepy is risky, but many do it anyway ("},{"type":"link","url":"https://www.thensf.org/drowsy-driving-prevention/","title":null,"target":null,"children":[{"type":"text","value":"4"}]},{"type":"text","value":"). You can best prevent behind-the-wheel slumber by providing your body with adequate sleep, healthy foods, and natural caffeine sources like Ethan’s clean energy shots to "},{"url":"https://ethans.com/blogs/recipes/how-to-stay-energized-throughout-the-day","type":"link","children":[{"type":"text","value":"boost your focus and alertness"}]},{"type":"text","value":"."}]}]}