Energy and Aging

Do you struggle with fatigue? A lack of energy (and accelerated aging) can result from a few different factors. The primary driver of fatigue is inflammation, and it mainly comes from mitochondria damage. Mitochondria damage is when the cells do not have enough energy—the unused oxygen and fuel molecules build up in the cells and cause damage. It’s common for people to snack too much and not move around enough, which can cause a lack of blood flow and ultimately fatigue. Consuming too many foods that are highly processed and high in fructose can also rob you of energy. 

Kathryn Langbehn, a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist at LWell, believes fasting and regular exercise can help build your metabolic flexibility and therefore increase your energy levels. Fasting for 10-12 hours can help to reset your body and burn fat as fuel, which helps build metabolic flexibility. Fasted state exercise, where you don’t eat before a workout, can also help to increase your metabolic flexibility and up energy levels. A healthy diet and getting the nutrients your body needs can help increase energy and slow down the aging process. Some foods that can help boost your energy are fruits that are in season, cruciferous vegetables, yams, millet, nuts, mushrooms, and red/black rice.

LWell’s elite team of Registered Dietitian Nutritionists, Health Coaches, and other health care providers offer custom wellness programs for increased energy, less inflammation and improved sleep. Check out our programs here and download the free LWell App.

This article was adapted from the LWell Program of Excellence “Energy and Aging” recorded live on 3/1/22.