Foods to Boost Energy
Food can be a great way to boost your energy and keep you going throughout the day.
There are three ways in which food can help boost energy: by providing the body with sufficient calories, by stimulating metabolism to burn fuel more efficiently, and by providing stimulants (like caffeine),
To keep your energy up, is important to eat regular meals and snacks, and to be sure that you are making healthy choices.
Here are some foods to boost energy…
Eat your carbohydrates:
Fad diets have given carbohydrates a bad name, but this is unfounded. Carbohydrates are the body’s (and the brains) natural fuel for energy. Complex carbohydrates also supply the brain with serotonin, which helps to regulate mood. The key is to avoid highly processed carbs (white bread, sweets, sugar, etc.) and be sure to choose whole grains.
Water and tea:
Dehydration is directly linked with fatigue. Often we when being to feel low on energy, or even hungry, it is actually a sign that we are dehydrated. Be sure to always drink plenty of water throughout the day. If you want even more of a pick-me up, try having a cup of tea. Tea is great for your health and can give you a mild caffeine boost. Research also shows that the combination of caffeine and L-theanine in tea can improve alertness and memory.
Fiber:
Another one of the wonders of fiber is that it helps to slow down digestion and reduce blood sugar spikes. This means that it can provide a more steady supply of energy throughout the day.
Protein:
The amino acids in protein are the regulate cells growth and are the building blocks for muscle. Protein-rich foods also contain tyrosine, which boosts the brain chemicals dopamine and norepinephrine to help you feel more alert and focused. Be sure to choose lean proteins and incorporate small portions into meals and snacks.
Breakfast:
One more reason not to skip breakfast. It truly is the foundation for your whole day. Those who skip breakfast have less energy, poorer memory, and delayed reaction times. Eating breakfast also gets your metabolism fired up for the rest of the day.
Nuts:
Nuts are rich in protein and monounsaturated fats, but they are also high in magnesium. Magnesium plays an important part in converting sugar into energy, and a deficiency of this mineral can create an energy slump. The best choices are cashews, almonds, and hazelnuts.