7 worst drinks that make you feel fatigued – The drinks we consume can have a significant impact on our energy levels and overall well-being. Some beverages, in particular, are known to cause fatigue and sluggishness. According to nutritionists and health experts, the worst drinks that can make you feel fatigued include:
1. Sweet Alcoholic Cocktails
Sweet alcoholic cocktails, while enjoyable for many, may contribute to fatigue due to their high sugar content and the potential for disrupting sleep patterns. The combination of alcohol and sugary mixers can lead to a rapid increase in blood sugar levels, followed by a subsequent crash, which may result in feelings of fatigue. Additionally, the presence of alcohol can interfere with the quality of sleep, leading to tiredness the next day.
To minimize the potential impact of sweet alcoholic cocktails on fatigue, it is advisable to consume them in moderation and be mindful of the sugar content. Additionally, staying hydrated and being aware of the overall alcohol consumption can help mitigate the risk of experiencing fatigue as a result of consuming sweet alcoholic cocktails.
It’s important to note that individual responses to alcohol and sugar can vary, and it’s always best to be mindful of personal tolerance and overall consumption.
2. Sweetened Coffee
Sweetened coffee is a popular beverage that many people consume for a quick energy boost. However, it can sometimes lead to feelings of fatigue due to the combination of caffeine and sugar in the drink. Here are some key points about sweetened coffee and its effects on energy levels:
Sugar crashes: When you ingest more sugar than your body is used to, insulin is produced to offset the spike in blood sugar levels. However, the insulin also causes blood glucose levels to drop, leading to a sugar crash and subsequent feelings of fatigue.
Caffeine and sleep: While caffeine can initially provide an energy boost, it may lead to fatigue after regularly drinking it over time. This is because caffeine blocks adenosine receptors in the central nervous system, which regulate sleep-wake cycles.
Dairy and tryptophan: Dairy products contain tryptophan, an amino acid that has been linked to promoting sleep. Although this can be beneficial for relaxation, it may not be ideal in a morning cup of coffee, as it could contribute to drowsiness.
Dehydration: Consuming sweetened coffee can lead to dehydration, which can add to feelings of fatigue.
3. All-fruit Smoothies
All-fruit smoothies can be a healthy and refreshing beverage option, but they can also contribute to fatigue if they contain high amounts of sugar. The sugar content in all-fruit smoothies can cause a spike in blood sugar levels, followed by a crash that can lead to feelings of sluggishness and tiredness.
However, if made with the right ingredients, all-fruit smoothies can provide a healthy boost of energy and nutrients.
When making all-fruit smoothies, it’s important to use whole fruits and avoid adding extra sugar or sweeteners. Adding protein-rich ingredients such as Greek yogurt or nut butter can also help balance blood sugar levels and provide sustained energy.
Some popular fruit smoothie recipes include banana, strawberry, and blueberry smoothies.
4. Soda Drink
Soda drinks, both regular and diet, can contribute to fatigue due to their high sugar content and the subsequent blood sugar fluctuations. The initial sugar rush is often followed by a sharp drop in blood sugar, leading to feelings of sluggishness and tiredness.
Additionally, the caffeine content in some sodas can lead to increased urine output and dehydration, further contributing to feelings of weakness and fatigue.
Furthermore, the acidic nature of soda can weaken tooth enamel, leading to dental issues.
It’s important to be mindful of the potential negative effects of soda consumption on energy levels and overall health. Choosing healthier alternatives such as water, unsweetened tea or coffee, and sugar-free drinks can help avoid the fatigue and other health issues associated with soda consumption.
5. Canned Energy Drinks
Canned energy drinks are one of the beverages that can contribute to fatigue. They often contain high amounts of sugar, caffeine, and other stimulants, which can provide an initial energy boost but may lead to a crash later on.
It is essential to be mindful of the ingredients and nutritional information of these drinks, as some can contain high amounts of sugar, caffeine, and other additives that may negatively impact your energy levels and overall health.
6. Sweetened Iced Tea
Sweetened iced tea can contribute to fatigue if it contains high amounts of sugar. The sugar content in sweetened iced tea can cause a spike in blood sugar levels, followed by a crash that can lead to feelings of sluggishness and tiredness.
However, when made with the right ingredients, sweetened iced tea can be a healthy and refreshing beverage option.
To make a healthier sweetened iced tea, consider the following tips:
- Use whole tea leaves or high-quality tea bags instead of generic ones.
- Steep the tea for no more than 10 minutes to avoid a bitter taste.
- Dissolve sugar or honey in hot tea instead of adding it to the finished product.
- Avoid adding excessive amounts of sugar or sweeteners.
- Consider adding herbal ingredients like fresh mint leaves or lemon wedges for extra flavor.
By following these guidelines, sweetened iced tea can be a healthy and energizing beverage option.
7. Alcohol
Alcohol is a psychoactive substance that can lead to fatigue and other health problems if consumed excessively. Drinking alcohol can cause a spike in blood sugar levels, followed by a crash that can lead to feelings of sluggishness and tiredness.
Additionally, alcohol is a central nervous system depressant that can slow down brain activity, affect mood and behavior, and make it harder to think clearly and move with coordination.
Excessive alcohol consumption is associated with a range of health problems, including mental and behavioral disorders, liver diseases, and cancer.
The recommended limits for alcohol consumption are up to one drink per day for women and up to two drinks per day for men.
