We all have those days when we feel like we just can’t keep our eyes open.
Whether you’re dealing with a mid-afternoon slump or trying to stay awake for an all-night study session, it can be difficult to find the energy you need to power through.
Thankfully, there are plenty of foods and drinks that can help you stay awake and alert naturally.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the best options and how they work.
Foods and Drinks That Keep You Awake Top Picks
Here are some of the best foods and drinks that can help you stay awake and alert when you need them most:
- Coffee: This is a classic for a reason. The caffeine in coffee is a natural stimulant that can help you stay awake and focused. Just be sure not to overdo it, as too much caffeine can lead to jitters and anxiety.
- Green tea: Like coffee, green tea contains caffeine, but it also has an amino acid called L-theanine that can help you feel calm and focused. This makes it a great option for those who are sensitive to the jitters that can come with too much caffeine.
- Dark chocolate: Believe it or not, dark chocolate contains small amounts of caffeine, as well as a compound called theobromine that can help boost energy levels. Just be sure to choose high-quality dark chocolate with a high percentage of cocoa.
- Nuts: Nuts are a great snack option for when you need a boost of energy. They’re packed with protein and healthy fats that can help you stay full and focused. Almonds and cashews are two particularly good options.
- Eggs: Eggs are a great source of protein and B vitamins, which can help boost energy levels. Plus, they’re versatile food that can be enjoyed in many different ways.
- Oatmeal: Oatmeal is a complex carbohydrate that can provide a slow and steady release of energy. This makes it a great option for those who need sustained energy over a longer period of time.
- Water: Dehydration can lead to fatigue and lethargy, so be sure to stay hydrated throughout the day. Aim for at least 8 glasses of water per day, and consider adding some lemon or cucumber for a little extra flavor.
FAQs
Q: Are energy drinks a good option for staying awake?
A: While energy drinks can provide a quick boost of energy, they’re not a healthy option in the long run.
They’re often loaded with sugar and caffeine and can lead to a crash once the effects wear off.
Q: How much coffee is too much?
A: It varies from person to person, but most experts recommend no more than 400 milligrams of caffeine per day, which is about 4 cups of coffee.
Q: Are there any foods that can make you feel more tired?
A: Yes. Foods that are high in sugar and simple carbohydrates can cause a spike in blood sugar followed by a crash, leaving you feeling tired and lethargic.
Conclusion
Staying awake and alert doesn’t have to involve energy drinks or other unhealthy options.
By incorporating some of these foods and drinks into your daily routine, you can boost your energy levels naturally and improve your overall health and productivity.
Try experimenting with different options to see what works best for you, and enjoy the benefits of a more energized and focused life.
Modafinil
Now, this is the cream of the crop when it comes to staying awake.
Fast acting, low cost, safe to use every day and it works the same every time.
Modafinil is a smart drug that has become increasingly popular among professionals, students, and individuals looking to enhance their cognitive abilities.
This drug is marketed under various brand names, including Provigil, Modalert, and Modvigil.
Modafinil is classified as a eugeroic, a type of medication that promotes wakefulness and alertness.
Unlike traditional stimulants such as caffeine and amphetamines, modafinil works by altering the activity of certain neurotransmitters in the brain.
Specifically, it increases the levels of dopamine, norepinephrine, and histamine, which are responsible for regulating mood, attention, and wakefulness.
Additionally, modafinil has a much longer half-life than other stimulants, which means that its effects can last for up to 12 hours.
One lesser-known fact about modafinil is that it was initially developed as a treatment for sleep disorders, such as narcolepsy, obstructive sleep apnea, and shift work sleep disorder.
However, due to its ability to improve cognitive function and enhance productivity, it has gained popularity as a cognitive enhancer.