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In need of an energy boost? Here are some tips to help.

— Drink water: Drinking plenty of water keeps the cells in our body regulated.

Our body is about 60 percent to 70 percent water.  Water is essential for the body’s growth and maintenance, as it’s involved in a number of processes.

It helps get rid of waste, regulates temperature and protects your joints and organs.

Thirst is an obvious sign of dehydration, and you need water long before you feel thirsty.

Symptoms of mild dehydration include chronic pains in joints and muscles, lower back pain, headaches and constipation.

A strong odor to your urine, along with a yellow or amber color, indicates you may not be getting enough water.

— Take a walk: A brisk walk is free. Believe it or not, it will boost your energy level.

— Stretch your body. Stretching can boost your energy in no time.

Stand up and go on your toes, with your hands stretched upwards.  Try to reach as high as you can with your fingertips stretched towards the ceiling.

— Have a good laugh. When you laugh or giggle, your brain releases endorphins.

Endorphins are substances that make you feel good, awake and energetic.

Laughing has many other advantages as well. The endorphins produced improve your immune system, reduce the risk of chronic depression and also help in preventing heart diseases.

— Communicate. Bottled up emotions could act as energy drainers.

If something’s bothering you — a relationship problem or work problems — it’s important that you communicate with someone you trust.

— Consume enough iron. Deficiency of iron is one of the major reasons for lack of concentration.

Do you find your mind wavering off at many occasions?  Or do you tend to get lethargic easily?  You could be suffering from anemia.

Iron leads to the production of hemoglobin in your body, these blood cells are responsible for transportation of oxygen in your body. Lack of hemoglobin leads to low oxygen levels, which can make you feel tired.

— Get enough sleep. Your body requires an adequate amount of sleep to work properly the next day.  Working overtime, sleeping in irregular patterns or not getting enough hours of sleep can affect your body’s energy levels.

— Eat berries. Berries are a rich source of vitamin C.  They also contain magnesium, potassium and other elements. Eating berries has a number of health benefits. The darker the color of the berries, the more benefits they have.

— Smile. Beginning your day with a smile on your face creates a positive atmosphere. Be positive and begin on a good note. Smiling also improves your health and reduces your stress levels.

Clark County Health Department provides programs for the entire family, including WIC, HANDS, family planning, well-child care/immunizations and smoking cessation. For more information, call 744-4482 or visit www.clarkhealthdept.org.