You think you are eating right — but your energy levels are in the basement. Here are some tips to help you pick the right foods to keep your body running all day long!
- Breakfast is the most important meal of the day. But watch what you eat! Sugary foods (even yogurt) can lead to an energy nosedive after an hour or so. Try to get a mix of protein and fiber (especially from whole grains) for energy that lasts. Keep your sugar content low if you can.
- Speaking of sugar — that dried fruit is full of it. Fresh, raw fruit is a better choice. It’s got the nutrients, the fiber, and plenty of water to help hydrate and energize you. High fiber content delivers steady energy; the liquid content helps prevent dehydration (which can sap energy).
- Add blueberries to your morning cereal to get the cancer fighting power of antioxidants! Blueberries can also help boost brain power and keep your mind sharp.
- Watch your fats — especially when you’re having a salad. Load your salad with colorful veggies, lean protein like chicken, and fiber rich chick peas. Add spinach for an extra energy boost; spinach is chock full of iron to help your blood carry oxygen throughout your body. You can also add spinach to pasta sauces for extra flavor.
- Snack on a handful of nuts, like almonds or cashews. These are full of protein and magnesium — both good for energy over time.
- Snack on multigrain pretzels or air-popped popcorn — rather than processed chips and other snacks that whiz through your system and can’t keep you going. High fiber snacks will stick with you longer.
The best thing you can consume for energy? Water. Lots of water. Dehydration can make you weary… so keep a bottle of water handy and sip throughout the day. Snack on juicy fruits and veggies like watermelon, cucumbers, carrots, and cantaloupe to help stay hydrated.