Feeling energised is about more than simply not feeling tired. It is about having the physical and mental capacity to get through your day, recover well, concentrate, exercise and still have energy left for the things you enjoy. Behind the scenes, this relies on a complex interaction between nutrition, digestion, blood sugar balance, hormones, stress, sleep, recovery and lifestyle habits.

One factor that can influence energy levels is blood sugar balance. Meals that are high in refined carbohydrates or sugar but low in protein, fibre or healthy fats may lead to quicker rises and falls in blood sugar levels, sometimes referred to as the “blood glucose roller coaster”. For some people, this can contribute to energy crashes, cravings or poor concentration later in the day. Irregular eating patterns, under-fuelling or relying on caffeine to get through the day may also make it more difficult to maintain consistent energy levels.

Stress and recover are equally important. The body does not distinguish particularly well between different types of stress, whether that is poor sleep, under-eating, overtraining, emotional stress or constantly rushing from one task to the next. Over time, these demands can place additional pressure on the body, making it harder to maintain energy and recover effectively. Even while you sleep, your body continues to use energy to repair tissues, regulate hormones, support immune function and maintain vital processes. This is why recovery, nourishment and adequate rest are just as important as the food you eat when it comes to supporting long-term energy.