Simple Tips to Give Kids an Energy Boost

Being a kid is hard work! Early morning starts, long hours of maths and spelling, even longer hours of sport and play… it takes a lot of energy!
Children actually have greater energy levels than adult endurance athletes. According to a recent study, kids’ muscles are much more resistant to fatigue, and they’re able to recover from exercise much more quickly than adults. 

But that doesn’t mean they don’t get tired out from time to time!

During the school year, children have a lot going on. While it’s normal for them to run out of steam sometimes, constantly flagging energy levels could be a sign that something isn’t quite right. 

Let’s look at the most common reasons for low energy in kids, and how to get them firing on all cylinders again. 

Are they drinking enough?

Dehydration is a common cause of flagging energy levels. Less fluid in the body means that the heart has to work harder to send nutrients and oxygen to cells, which can lead to feelings of tiredness. 

In kids, dehydration can occur after an illness (especially a gastro bug), in hot weather, or simply after a big day on the sports field. And, like adults, kids often forget to drink enough water!

Get your young ones into better hydration habits by encouraging them to carry a water bottle with them wherever they go. They won’t argue with the super cool b.box Spout Bottle! This 600ml bottle is designed for active kids on the go and features a no-fuss easy-flow sipper top.

Are they eating the right foods?

A nutritious diet is crucial at every age, but even more so during childhood years.
Growing bodies need plenty of vitamins and minerals to support their mental and physical development. Of course, kids aren’t always the easiest to please when it comes to healthy meals and snacks! Fussy eaters might turn their noses up at your delicious homecooked dinner but be quite happy with ice cream. And while a treat might be better than eating nothing, too much of the bad and not enough of the good can be catastrophic for kids’ health - especially their energy levels.
If you’re struggling to get enough fruit and veg into your kiddo, Vital Greens All-In-One could be the magic solution. A multivitamin for kids (and adults!) this yummy powder is rich in vegetables, fruits, essential fatty acids, fibre, protein, vitamins, minerals and herbs, probiotics, and prebiotics to support the immune system, energy levels and vitality. Completely gluten-free and lactose-free, and tastes great! Simply add to smoothies, juices, milk, or water. An easy way to fill in any nutritional gaps in your child’s diet.
For kids that prefer a sweet treat, Nature's Way Kids Smart Vita Gummies are fail-proof. Specifically formulated for fussy eaters, these tasty gummies are packed with vitamins, minerals and vegetables.

Are they sleeping enough?

Kids who don’t get enough sleep turn into kids who run out of steam. Sleep is that precious time in which their bodies get a chance to rest, repair, and restore strength. 

According to the Ministry of Health, the recommended hours of sleep for each age group are: 

• Toddler (1–2 years): 11 to 14 hours
• Preschool (3–4 years): 10 to 13 hours
• School age (5–13 years): 9 to 11 hours
• Teens (14 years+): 8 to 10 hours

Getting plenty of shut-eye is a non-negotiable for youngsters, no matter how much they protest at bedtime. Help them nod off peacefully with GO Healthy GO Kids Calm & Sleep Support. These delicious chewable tablets contain Magnesium, Zinc, Vitamins D and C, plus Chamomile to support calm, ease muscle tension, and support healthy growth. Another great option is SleepDrops for Kids - a Kiwi-made natural sleep formula designed to support healthy sleep patterns. SleepDrops taste great and can be given just before bed or again if your little angel wakes during the night.

How’s their gut health?

The gut is central to everything that goes on in the body, from energy production to immune function. It’s where food is broken down into fuel and nutrients that support all bodily systems.
A child’s gut bacteria - a.k.a microbiome - is established by about the time they’re three years old, and continues to change according to diet, lifestyle, and environment. Unfortunately, gut bacteria can be depleted by antibiotics, poor diet, and illnesses, which in turn can affect energy levels, mood, immunity, and overall vitality. 

Fermented foods are a great way to support microbiome - but it’s not always easy to convince kids to eat their sauerkraut! That’s where probiotics can help. Life-space Probiotic Powder for Children is designed to support digestive health, immune function, and bowel regularity in kids aged 3-12 years. Each 1g teaspoon contains 10 billion healthy bacteria to support microbial diversity in the gut. Simply mix one teaspoon of powder in water or add to food.

Are they regular?

Sluggish bowels and constipation can turn even the happiest kids into tired, irritable little monsters.
In most cases, constipation in kids isn’t much to worry about. It can be caused by simple things like changes in routine, the weather, or just putting off going to the toilet.
But chronic constipation can also be a sign of other health issues, so be sure to check in with your doctor if it’s happening too often. 

Diet is the best way to keep kids regular. Fill them up on fibre-rich foods like beans, avocado, berries, nuts, seeds, brown rice, and wholegrain cereal. Probiotics will help too (see above!) along with getting plenty of exercise and drinking enough water. If they’re still struggling, Phloe Bowel Health Kid Chews can help get things moving. Made with natural kiwifruit extract, these chewable tablets are a gentle and effective way to support children's bowel health. 

For more ideas to keep those young ones fit and bursting with energy, check out the huge range of childrens’ products at Bargain Chemist. Visit us in-store or online! 

Always read the label and use as directed. If symptoms persist see your healthcare professional.