To improve your stamina and general health, avoid trendy supplements and drinks that claim to perform metabolic miracles. Instead opt for these time-tested tips to feel your best and keep your engine humming along:

• Exercise: Strength training 2 or 3 times a week will strengthen, define, and build muscle, which is metabolically more active than fat. Gradually work up to 30 minutes or more a day, 5 days a week of regular cardiovascular exercise — such as jogging, biking, elliptical, or fast walking — for best results.

• Nourish yourself: Research indicates that skipping meals, especially breakfast, can actually slow down your metabolism.

• Eat more often: Some find they feel better and have more energy when eating several smaller meals every 3-4 hours according to hunger level.

• Stay hydrated: Keep that water flowing and avoid dehydration, which will slow you down.

• Try green tea: It can raise your metabolism while providing an antioxidant and caffeine infusion.

• Avoid sugar: Soft drinks, alcohol, and processed foods can be loaded with salt, sugar, and other ingredients that zap your energy. Aim for healthier choices like produce, whole grains, lean protein, and low-fat dairy.