Feel-Good Fuel for Outdoor Adventures
Summer is a wild time. Even through the fluorescent humdrums of adulthood, I still crave going a little bit feral. I seek the barefoot kind of freedom that doesn’t make me clock-in. I want to walk every trail, swim every lake, and sprawl in the grass in the shade of big trees. I want to feel energized!
This kind of stamina doesn’t come from caffeine or brute-force willpower. Real energy comes from nourishment, supportive rituals, and maintaining a childish curiosity no matter how old I get.
Why the Heat Wears Us Down
Hot summer days are lovely, but they also challenge the body. Sweating helps us stay cool, but it drains our electrolytes and taxes our adrenals. Long hours in the sun can also wear down our cellular energy systems which leaves us sluggish and foggy in the brain.
Supporting our adrenal health and mitochondrial function helps build lasting energy and doesn’t come with overstimulation or burnout feelings common to things like caffeine.
So, where do we start?
Friends for Natural Energy
B Vitamins
B vitamins are involved in every step of energy production. They help turn your meals into movement, nourish your nervous system, and keep your mind sharp. I notice a difference in how long I can go without feeling tired when I’ve kept up with my B-complex. B-complexes can sometimes make my tummy hurt if I take it on an empty stomach, so pop this one after you’ve eaten breakfast.
Try: CanPrev BioActive B
Adaptogens
Rhodiola helps build endurance while also calming the nervous system (1). Cordyceps supports oxygen uptake and cellular energy without a big crash (2). I take adaptogens when I want to feel like I can get stuff done!
Try: OHV-Brand Optimized Adrenal Complex
Purica Cordyceps Full Spectrum
Protein + Creatine
This combo isn’t just for gym bros. Protein, whether from vegan or whey sources, helps repair muscles, stabilizes energy, and supports hormones at any age (3). Creatine boosts both strength and cognition (4). Of course it’ll help you make huge strides in the gym, but even if that’s not your focus, incorporating creatine & protein gives long-term support for the whole body.
Try: Tim's Whey Protein Isolate
Natural Factors RegenerLife Creatine Monohydrate
Electrolytes
It’s what plants crave (just kidding)! When we sweat, we lose both water and essential minerals. If you’re feeling sluggish, dizzy, or crampy, chances are your electrolyte levels may be out of whack. On extra hot days, it’s wise to carry a mineral blend when you’re out & about to help re-hydrate effectively.
L-Carnitine
This one often flies under the radar, but it’s a champ. L-Carnitine helps your cells burn fat for fuel, which means more sustainable energy over longer periods. It also aids recovery and reduces soreness (5).
Try: OHV-Brand L-Carnitine 500mg
So, what are the “secrets” to staying energized outside?
It’s not really a secret at all, but science! Take care of your body and it’ll take care of you.
- Eat balanced meals with good fats, lean proteins, and fibre-rich plants
- Refuel with protein within 45 minutes of activity
- Sip water with minerals before, during, and after your outing
- Snack smart with nuts, fruit, protein bars, or adaptogenic tonics
- Rest when your body asks and listen without guilt
With the right support, your body is built to thrive—so give it what it needs, and go enjoy every wild, sun-drenched moment.
References
Panossian, A., Wikman, G., & Sarris, J. (2010). Rosenroot (Rhodiola rosea): Traditional use, chemical composition, pharmacology and clinical efficacy. Phytomedicine, 17(7), 481–493.
Hirsch, K. R., Smith-Ryan, A. E., Roelofs, E. J., & Trexler, E. T. (2017). Cordyceps militaris improves tolerance to high-intensity exercise after acute and chronic supplementation. Journal of Dietary Supplements, 14(1), 42–53.
Phillips, S. M., Chevalier, S., & Leidy, H. J. (2016). Protein "requirements" beyond the RDA: implications for optimizing health. Applied Physiology, Nutrition, and Metabolism, 41(5), 565–572.
Gualano, B., Roschel, H., Lancha, A. H., Jr., Brightbill, C. E., & Rawson, E. S. (2016). In sickness and in health: the widespread application of creatine supplementation. Amino Acids, 48(8), 1757–1765.
Fielding, R., Riede, L., Lugo, J. P., & Bellamine, A. (2018). l-Carnitine supplementation in recovery after exercise. Nutrients, 10(3), 349.