Keeping energy up during 12 shift without coffee

[soreadyRN, BSN, RN]

So I don't drink coffee, and I've been wondering how to keep my energy up during the full 12 hour shift. I work on a floor where I am constantly busy, so it is easy to get tired quick especially if it is your 2nd or 3rd 12 in a row.

What I found that helped me best other than the obvious: good night sleep the night before, squeezing workouts in your schedule (which are crucial btw) but I tried a green energy powder.

I'd already purchased this a while ago based on my sister's recommendation however didn't use it much because it does not have the best taste when mixed in water. But I tried it again recently and over the passed few months I've seen a change in my alertness and energy. It's called Green Vibrance, the easiest way I found to take it is mixing it in fruit/strawberry apple sauce, and eating it fast but it's well worth it.

If anyone else has any other energy boosting suggestions other than coffee or energy drinks, let me know!

[Wannabeeinscrubs, ADN, LPN, RN]

ACE it is an A​ppetite Control Energy capsule. I used it to help me lose weight, and then to get through 12 hour shifts at work.

[picklemouse]

Green tea is great. It gives you energy without being overbearing. It also comes in flavours. I used Earl Grey Green a lot through my old job (18 hour shifts on a ship) and didn't feel like I was over-caffeinated or putting something weird in my body.

[CrissiQ]

Monster rehab drinks (cranberry is my favorite), one at 7AM and one at 5 pm. I work 14.5 hour shifts on Sat an Sun every weekend.

[savoytruffle, BSN, RN]

Apple slices, water, and a little dark chocolate with peanut butter. I stay away from per packaged powders and drinks- just sugar and caffeine. I've also started a multi vite and b12 complex.

[stewartfamily2010]

I just started using GNC Womens Ultra Mega vitamins for active women. They're great for energy! Lots of B vitamins.

[Havin' A Party!, ASN, RN]

Great snacks... half a sandwich, Low Sodium V8 is dynamite, fruit, etc.

[Morainey, BSN, RN]

I try to drink one of those insulated tumblers of water every couple of hours. I also bring granola bars, those prepackaged snack crackers and dried cranberries. Plus if lunch is going to be late I will sometimes eat one of those little peanut butters if I start to feel weak. I'd rather have snacks than piling on caffeine.