By Ntaoleng Malise
You can always count on the proverb "you are what you eat" to be accurate. Many of us lead busy lifestyles that leave us little to no time to eat healthy meals. Sadly, for many of us this results in an energy slump becoming a regular occurrence.
Being aware of what we put into our bodies has become more crucial than ever because of busy modern lifestyles. Food helps us to keep up with the everyday minute by minute demands of life. The food we eat greatly affects our energy levels and significantly contributes to our overall well-being. Eating a food high in sugar and refined starches like white bread cause a spike in your blood sugar, followed by a drop that can make you feel sleepy.
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Here are some healthy energy giving foods for more consistent energy levels all day:
1. Water
The most organic source of energy enhancers is plain H2O. Water, that's right. The human body is about 60% water and needs water to stay hydrated, which increases and sustains energy levels throughout the day. So if you're lacking in
energy and need to replenish your energy, drinking water is an easily accessible and great source of energy.
2. Whole Grains
Whole grains are rich in carbohydrates, and the body uses this as a source to provide energy. What makes whole grains even greater is that they digest over time, this goes a long way in keeping the energy and sugar levels stable. And because of this, one is able to feel fuller for longer. Foods rich in whole grain are brown rice, whole-wheat bread and oatmeal.
3. Nuts
In addition to being delicious, nuts are a wonderful source of magnesium, which helps transform sugar into energy, and are loaded with protein. Even though not all nuts provide an instant energy boost, the protein in them ensures a longer and more sustained release of energy. Cashews, hazelnuts, and almonds are a few of the nuts to try.
4. Beans
Beans are one of the most understated sources of steady energy all day. Beans contain slow-digesting carbohydrates and protein that are good for sustaining energy. Additionally, beans are healthy for the heart. Bean consumption will increase energy and improve heart health.
5. Coconut
Try grabbing for a bottle of coconut water the next time you experience a midday slump. Your energy level will be immediately increased because to the electrolytes and antioxidants in it. You can also get coconut fresh or even in its dried form if that's more your style.
MCTs (medium-chain triglycerides), a type of fat that can be converted into energy, are abundant in coconut.
6. Dark Chocolate
A fantastic technique to maintain one's energy is by eating dark chocolate. This is due to the presence of a chemical named theobromine. Theobromine is known to increase energy levels similarly to coffee. Other nutrients that promote energy are abundant in dark chocolate.
7. Bananas
Bananas are rich in complex carbohydrates, Vitamin B6, potassium and protein. This is an easy, on-the-go form of energy boosting snack. Bananas have a high sugar content, which comes in the form of sucrose, fructose and glucose, as well as fibre – these together ensure that the supply of energy from them is not only instant, but is also a sustained one.
8. Cinnamon
Cinnamon not has one of the most comforting aromas, but has many great, health benefits too. Cinnamon is useful in keeping blood sugar levels stable, it also assists in stabilising energy levels, which prevents the inconsistencies of sugar spikes that are brought on by snacking.
9. Leafy Greens
Spinach and kale are some of the most popular leafy greens available, and both are high in Vitamin C, magnesium and iron. These three nutrients are important for energy production. Among other nutrients found in leafy green vegetables, is iron. The iron in the greens is great for energy maintenance throughout the day.
10. Tea
Because of the caffeine in it, tea is another great way of improving your energy levels when you hit a bit of a dip. It also contains an amino acid called L-Theanine, which produces a more stable type of energy. So, not only is tea a comfort drink, it works hard so that you can too.
Now next time you hit a slump while attempting to smash your goals, try incorporating some of these healthy foods to your diet to help improve your energy.