What Energizes Us?

Unfortunately, energy isn’t simply an item we can order off the menu but yet another attribute we acquire with discipline.

Many factors play a role in our energy level. First our genetic make-up. Most of us are born with an equal number of fast-twitch fibers that rapidly contract to provide quick energy, required in sprinting, and slow-twitch fibers that generate enduring energy, necessary for long-distance running.

I note that the energy of my neighborhood dogs varies in amount and quality as it does in people. Freddy, a regal golden retriever saunters, serene and slow; presumably his slow-twitch fibers predominate. By contrast, my schipperke dog Woolf, a ratter engineered for fast response, scampers. Given a lack of environmental stimulation, Woolf readily assumes the posture of a couch potato. His reaction confirms that energy levels sometimes depend on- what’s in or out of- our heads.

Energy depletion is natural and stems from many causes. As a cell ages, its telomeres-the protective DNA sequences on the end of each chromosome-shorten.  Eventually normal cells with short telomeres stop replicating and the cell dies. Mitochondria, the microscopic energy-yielding factories in our cells, become dysfunctional when telomeres shorten and fray.  Mitochondrial diminution over time in part explains energy loss. Dysfunctional mitochondria cause additional oxidative stress (increased free radicals) which increases aging.

Scientists at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute found data suggesting that telomere shortening is the cause of mitochondrial dysfunction and diminished antioxidant defenses. Together they decrease the body’s energy and diminish organ function, both characteristic of old age.

Free radicals like toxins, air pollution, sun exposure, ozone nitrous oxide (from auto exhaust) cigarette smoke and alcohol consumption, damage cell membranes and are responsible for causing diseases.

Current therapies aim at boosting the human body’s antioxidant defenses by recommending

1.     eating a healthy diet

2.     reducing calories

3 . supplementing with antioxidant vitamins C and E, green tea, CoQ10 (a co-enzyme that converts fats and carbohydrates to energy sources) and resveratrol, found in grape juice and red wine. These products protect the telomeres and support the generation of new mitochondria.

Except for the common psycho-stimulants like coffee, soda and chocolate, the efficacy of many over-the-counter chemicals isn’t clear.  

Energy spent in exercise is not like spending money, but actually has a paradoxical effect. Increasing the expenditure of energy as we exercise ultimately increases our energy and endurance, while spending money depletes the supply.

When we engage in an activity we enjoy, we have more energy to burn. By contrast, our energy lags when we’re forced. Many of us find shopping energizing and bill paying depleting.

Conflict can energize or paralyze. Needing to resolve a question can fire us up. If we find decision-making overwhelming, it can paralyze. In contrast to disinterest, ideas and goals inspire. Research shows that people without mental challenges are more likely to succumb to Alzheimer’s disease. When we meet our goals, it’s best to establish new ones and focus on what we can control to nurture our energy supplies. Calories, a measure of energy, are not all created equal. Some foods provide quick energy, orange juice and sugary items like cakes and cookies, but this energy is short lived. Complex carbohydrates like fruits and grains provide enduring energy.

Some energy promoting factors:

1. good quality sleep

2. good quality food like peanut butter

3. positive thinking including love and caring for someone and/or something outside ourselves

4. meeting goals and establishing new ones

Some energy depleting factors:

1.insufficient or poor quality sleep

2.fast burning foods- sweets, simple carbohydrates

3. alcohol and anti-anxiety medications (the benzodiazepines)  abuse of psycho-stimulants

4. negative thinking, conflict, guilt, disinterest and apathy

Conclusion: We improve our quality of life when we are aware and nurture our energy in natural ways.

Dear Reader, Please offer your experiences and insights.

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