What’s stealing your energy?

Does it feel like you’re making endless lists, juggling responsibilities and wearing five different hats all at once? Too many of us turn to coffee and sweet treats to tide us over until the end of another hectic day, but never switching off properly is a sure-fire way to sap your energy levels. One in eight Britons feel tired all of the time, and a quarter feel tired most of the time, according to a recent YouGov survey. And while we can’t always tell our jobs, families and social lives to give us a break, there are some simple ways to beat the slump when you’re running on empty.

Take the quiz to get a handle on your energy needs and then follow our experts’ advice on how best to replenish your tank.

1 Which of these statements do you agree with the most...

A I factor in time for me, but often fill it doing other things.

B I’m often flagging by 3pm.

C I’m always dashing around and manage to fit a lot in.

2 What best describes your daily routine?

A I don’t stop all day and give everything.

B I spend most of my day sat at a computer.

C I’m busy, but sit down in between chores.

3 You wake up in the morning and... A Prefer to hit the snooze button and roll over.

B Dive straight into checking my emails and to-do list.

C Aim to do a workout first thing.

4 You feel tired and not at your best... A Some days.

B On and off most days.

C Every day, but I plough on.

5 If you’re stressed during daily life... A I find it very hard to unwind.

B I find an outlet or hobby that helps me to feel better.

C My day is often stressful, but I always bounce back.

6 How often do you eat wholegrain varieties of carbs such as pasta and rice? A Often.

B Sometimes.

C Rarely.

7 How would you describe your relationship with hunger? A I’m always hungry.

B I’m generally OK.

C I’m often hungry.

8 What are your snacking habits? A Snacking is a distraction from the pressures of my day.

B I graze continuously throughout the day.

C I plan my snacks regularly.

9 How is your daily fluid intake? A I enjoy a coffee or tea in the morning and drink water throughout the day.

B I drink coffee, but struggle to drink water.

C I drink lots of water and feel hydrated and healthy.

10 How well do you normally sleep? A I sleep well and wake feeling rested.

B I need sleep and if I don’t get it, I can’t focus the next day.

C I can manage with six hours of sleep and the occasional late night.

NOW ADD