“Fatigue breaks us down physically and emotionally and wreaks havoc on the immune system, making us more susceptible to illness, depression, and even chronic conditions like heart disease.” Says Dina Aronson, RD. Instinctively, when you experience low energy levels you tend to reach for candy or a cup of coffee to get a quick boost. Unfortunately, both have short-lived effects and can be detrimental to your health. The key to energy boosting is to go for super foods that are rich in fiber, protein and complex carbohydrates. These foods will give you lasting energy and protect you from cancer, Alzheimer’s, heart disease and other diseases. Wondering what these super foods are? Keep reading to find out.
Nuts
Raw nuts are full of nutrients – and you will even get more health benefits if you soak them overnight.
Raw, unsalted nuts provide a high-energy boost to your body. They are packed with nutrients and are free from any kind of processing. Try the almonds and walnuts but exercise moderation here.
If possible, soak your nuts in water overnight to activate them.
Spinach
Spinach is exceedingly high in iron, potassium and magnesium.
Magnesium plays a big role in manufacturing energy, and together with potassium facilitates potent digestion in the stomach as well as the regulation of muscle and nerve function.
Serve wilted spinach with some eggs for your breakfast or add some fresh ones to your favorite salad.
Salmon
Salmon is known as a “brain food” for a reason. This rich-tasting fish has omega-3 fatty acids that improves memory, reduces depression and boosts energy as well as the mood. Additionally, the healthy fats help reduce bad cholesterol and lower blood pressure that can raise the risk for cardiovascular disease.
Yogurt
Yogurt has Probiotics – good bacteria that indirectly help in fighting fatigue. Probiotics also helps in facilitating changes in the gut’s micro flora and enhance the immune system of the body. They keep the gut healthy and assist in digestion, which lets you get the most out of the food you consume and fight fatigue. So, go ahead and add yogurt to your breakfast, cereal or your favorite salads to get a huge boost of calcium and a great dose of probiotics.
Milk
Milk is among the original super foods containing 9 essential nutrients like protein, calcium, and vitamins A, D and B12. It is essential for good bone health. Therefore, forget the soda and opt for non fat and low fat milk when choosing drinks for your family.
Super foods supply numerous essential nutrients to the body, thus enhancing the metabolic rate, providing stamina, boosting energy levels and improving the general body health. Just make sure you eat seasonally as you consider factors such as sustainability, cost, health, environment, nutrient value flavor, color etc.
Sources
http://www.webmd.com/food-recipes/10-super-foods
http://www.health.com/health/gallery/0,,20683067,00.html
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-3000711/Revealed-10-best-foods-boost-energy-levels-without-expanding-waistline.html
http://www.everydayhealth.com/fitness-pictures/energy-boosting-foods.aspx#05
http://www.rachaelray.com/2009/09/top-super-foods-improve-your-health-and-boost-your-energy
Judith Akoyi
Judith Akoyi is a 33 year old mother of two and a health and fitness enthusiast. She started her fitness journey 6 years ago after giving birth to her second baby and realizing the need to get her shape back. Judith participated in the Kenya’s Standard Chartered Marathon in 2015 and regularly participates in Saturday fun runs with people from her community. Judith is now a health/fitness specialist who works to help people get in shape and lead a healthy life. According to her, excellent solid exercise programs as well as healthy eating are key to achieving your fitness goals. Her motto is to always keep it fun, challenging and creative.Judith believes that health is the greatest wealth that we have as human beings and if cultivated and respected, it can last forever.
