Being in a Resource: How to Restore Energy?

Lack of energy, unwillingness to perform tasks, and low productivity can all be signs that the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) is not functioning correctly.

Not only is the GIT the primary way to obtain nutrients, but it has also been proven that signals received from the gut transmit information about nutrients entering the brain, influencing changes in eating behavior and energy expenditure to maintain energy balance¹. When the connection between the brain and GIT is disrupted at any stage, it becomes difficult to be productive and efficient.

Dietician Sophia Medlin asserts with good reason that various disruptions in the stomach and intestines can lead to decreased concentration and reduced productivity. But how does this work?

The brain requires a significant amount of glucose for its proper functioning. A shortage of this substance disrupts established connections in the brain and deteriorates existing ones. Without glucose, the proper production of various neurotransmitters that help our brain function at full capacity becomes impossible.

Glucose is absorbed and enters the bloodstream precisely through the gastrointestinal tract. Different GIT disorders such as gastroesophageal disease, peptic ulcers, cholecystitis, pancreatitis, etc., hinder the proper processing of food, glucose extraction, correct substance transportation from the GIT to the blood, and subsequently to the brain. The outcome is predictable: there might not be enough energy even to get out of bed, let alone perform basic tasks.

However, it’s not just about glucose. Vitamins and minerals also enter the body through food, without which the proper functioning of the entire body, particularly the brain, becomes impossible.

A good example is iron. It enters the body through seafood, red meat, legumes, and some other foods. Iron deficiency leads to anemia, a condition accompanied by a lack of oxygen in the blood. Just like without glucose, our brain cannot function productively without oxygen.

Interconnections between iron and glucose are not the only examples, so when facing productivity issues, it’s essential to check not only the nervous system and brain but also the GIT.

If productivity problems arise, endocrinologist-dietitian Anna Tselikovskaya recommends starting with reevaluating your approach to nutrition.

1. It’s important to train yourself to have a hearty breakfast, including fiber, proteins, and "slow carbs" in your diet.
2. Learning to set aside time for lunch is advisable. A substantial lunch will help reduce hunger by dinnertime and decrease the likelihood of overeating.
3. In the evening, opt for light meals, and it’s preferable for your meal intake to be no later than two hours before sleep.
4. Including meat and other substantial foods in your dinner is also possible, especially if you’ve been physically or mentally active during the day.
5. It’s necessary to develop the habit of eating regularly to prevent your brain from sending signals to your body that energy might face disruptions and needs to be stored.

Proper and balanced nutrition not only helps maintain a healthy gastrointestinal tract but also contributes to increased productivity and efficiency.
Don’t forget that deficiencies in vitamins and minerals can be addressed with doctor-prescribed supplements.