Many common health recommendations—like eating less, drinking more water, and working out harder—can actually make fatigue worse for some people. These functional health tips for energy take a different approach by focusing on nourishment, mineral balance, digestion, and nervous system support. When your body has the resources it needs, energy, recovery, and overall health often improve naturally.
The “Unhinged” Health Advice That Might Change Your Energy
There are a few things I have my clients do that usually get met with a:
“Really?” 😳
Because they go against almost everything we’ve been told is “healthy.”
But here’s the thing…
These recommendations aren’t random.
They’re based on what I consistently see happening under the surface—in energy production, mineral balance, digestion, and stress physiology.
And they work.
Let’s get into it.
1. Eat More
Yes—more.
I see far more under-fueling than overeating, especially in women.
When your body doesn’t get enough fuel, it doesn’t just “burn fat.”
It shifts into stress mode.
That impacts:
- energy
- sleep
- hormones
- mood
More real food = more stability.
It sends the signal:
“We’re safe. We have enough.”
2. Drink Less Water (During Meals)
Hydration matters—but timing does too.
Drinking too much water with meals can dilute stomach acid, making it harder to break down food.
Better digestion → better absorption → better energy.
Tip: Sip during meals, hydrate between them.
3. Eat Red Meat
Red meat is one of the most nutrient-dense foods available.
It provides:
- bioavailable iron
- zinc
- B vitamins
- vitamin A (retinol form)
- complete protein
These are nutrients commonly low in a lot of the women I see dealing with fatigue, hair changes, and hormone imbalances.
4. Use More Salt
Salt has been misunderstood.
Sodium is essential for:
- hydration balance
- nerve signaling
- mineral absorption
- adrenal function
Low sodium intake can contribute to:
- fatigue
- brain fog
- low energy
Focus on high-quality salts (Celtic, Himalayan, Fleur de Sel) and reduce processed foods instead.
5. Eat Fruit
Fruit is not the problem.
Fruit provides:
- natural sugars for energy
- minerals
- hydration (structured water)
It can support:
- energy levels
- hydration
- reduced sugar cravings
6. Eat More Carbs (The Right Ones)
Your body needs glucose to produce energy.
Whole food carbs like:
- sweet potatoes
- squash
- carrots
- whole grains
Provide steady fuel + fiber.
Going too low-carb can increase stress hormones and leave you feeling more depleted.
7. Stop Eating Salads (Sometimes)
If your digestion is struggling, raw fiber can make things worse.
Especially if:
- you feel bloated
- your stomach feels distended
- you look “pregnant” by evening
Sometimes the best approach is to:
- reduce raw fiber
- support digestion first
- then rebuild tolerance
8. Take Fewer Supplements
More supplements ≠ better health.
Targeted support works better than guessing.
Your body needs:
- the right nutrients
- at the right time
- for the right reason
Not a cabinet full of pills.
9. Work Out Less
Exercise is a stressor.
It’s beneficial—but only if your body can recover.
If workouts leave you:
- exhausted
- crashing later
- sore for days
That’s feedback.
Sometimes less intensity = better results.
10. Laugh. Sing. Dance.
These aren’t extras.
They’re regulation tools.
They support:
- nervous system balance
- stress reduction
- emotional processing
Which directly impacts energy and health.
11. Do More of What Brings You Joy
This might sound simple—but it’s powerful.
Your body responds to:
- pleasure
- creativity
- connection
Not just discipline.
Joy isn’t optional—it’s regulatory.
Why These Functional Health Tips for Energy Work
These recommendations may seem “backwards,” but they’re grounded in physiology.
They address:
- nutrient availability
- mineral balance
- digestion
- stress response
When those systems are supported, energy often improves naturally.
Where Testing Comes In
These aren’t one-size-fits-all recommendations.
They’re based on patterns I see when we look deeper.
That’s why many people start with Hair Tissue Mineral Analysis (HTMA) through The Energy Blueprint.
With a small hair sample, we can explore patterns related to:
- stress response
- mineral balance
- digestion capacity
- energy production
- blood sugar stability
It provides a starting point that makes sense for you.
FAQ: Functional Health Tips for Energy
Why do these tips go against traditional advice?
Many traditional guidelines are generalized. Functional approaches consider individual physiology, nutrient status, and stress patterns.
Is eating more really better for energy?
For many people, especially those under-eating, increasing food intake can support hormone balance and energy production.
Is salt actually healthy?
Sodium is essential for many bodily functions. Needs vary by individual, and quality and context matter.
Should I stop drinking water with meals?
Not entirely—small sips are fine. The goal is to avoid excessive intake that may interfere with digestion.
Do I need testing to follow these tips?
Not necessarily, but testing can provide more personalized insight into what your body may need.
Final Thoughts
If some of these felt a little “unhinged”…
That’s usually a sign we’re looking at things differently—and sometimes more accurately.
Because when you understand what your body actually needs…
Everything starts to make a lot more sense.
Learn more about the Energy Blueprint here
Sources
- NIH – Sodium and Health
- NIH – Iron and Energy Metabolism
- PubMed – Dietary Carbohydrates and Energy Regulation
- NIH – Vitamin A and Human Health
- PubMed – Exercise and Stress Response
- Cleveland Clinic – Digestion and Hydration
The content in this post is for educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always consult your licensed healthcare provider regarding any medical concerns.
