Dear Dr. Fritz,
Great day! I wanted to be awake sans coffee. I love coffee, but I cannot tolerate the hyperacidity I get from it and how my heart would race after some few sips. So, I hope you can give me options on how to be awake without taking coffee or any caffeinated drinks. Thanks for your response.
Coffee jerk
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Dear Coffee jerk,
Don’t worry. There are a lot out there that could help you be more awake even without taking coffee. Here are some of them.
1. Get a salad for a snack
Leafy vegetables is rich with Vitamin B, which is part of your cells’ energy-making process.
2. Drink water
If you are dehydrated, you feel fatigued. So, just drink water.
3. Go out
Fresh air can wake you up and the sun can help regulate your sleep-wake cycle.
4. Sweat it out
When you move, your body will start to make more energy and also releases endorphins - the “feel-good” hormones – boosting your mood naturally.
5. Keep a routine
Waking up at the same time every day will teach your body the time to be alert and when to rest.
6. Try aromatherapy
The smell of eucalyptus, lemon, or peppermint can jump-start your senses.
7. Go for protein
Protein or healthy fat can fill you up much longer and help you avoid getting more sugar.
8. Get a break from screens
Avoid eyestrains by looking into the distance and away from your computer or phone regularly as you work.
9. Grab some power nap
A 15- to 30-minute nap can help you feel more alert and be energized.
10. Chew gum or brush your teeth
These can activate your nerves and make you feel more alert.
11. Have some blast
Go for upbeat music which cannot only wake you up, but may make you swirl some moves.
Good luck!
Dr. Fritz
(Dr. Fritz Legarde Espedilla is an aesthetic dermatologist and surgeon and a clinical sexologist. She is also trained in hypnotherapy and Medical Acupuncture. She is the co-host of digital page of Superbalita. For your questions, you may send them to Dear Dr. Fritz, c/oSunstar-Davao Publishing Inc., Ebro-Pelayo Building1, Juan LunaSt., Davao City or you e-mail them to dokfritz@yahoo.com. If you don’t wish your letter to be published, we regret that we cannot answer them. Thank you for your understanding.)