We feel energy shortages in terms of what we’re consciously unable to do. We might feel too tired to bicycle, swim, or just get through a day at work. But, lacking energy has an even greater impact on unconscious processes like digestion, immune response, and building muscles. Any lack of energy undermines every cellular action.

When we lack energy, most of us reach for caffeine, sugar, or other stimulants. Stimulants bring a false sense of energy but don’t increase actual energy levels at all. Instead, they tax the heart and adrenals, and they can eventually lead to serious health challenges.