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Article Series: Health Living & Weight Loss
Live Healthy. Eat Healthy. Be Healthy.
The
Top 5 Energy Boosting Foods On Earth
With so many ads about which super foods are
best, it can be confusing to decipher what's a scam and what's
the truth. That's why I compiled a list of the top five energy
boosting foods that will give you true, lasting energy to keep
you hopping all day!
Oatmeal
Oats contain the energizing and stress-lowering B vitamin
family, which helps transform carbs into usable energy. Oats
are also low on the glycemic index because they have a lot
of fiber. That means that your body gets a steady stream of
energy, as opposed to a short-term spike, because the carbohydrates
gradually flow into your bloodstream.
The key here is to look for high-fiber oatmeal, like oat bran.
For the best nutrition kick, avoid instant oatmeal and stick
with more natural varieties, then add your own sweetness.
Lentils
Beans are a great source of fiber, which translates to a slow
release of glucose, as well as B vitamins, iron, magnesium,
potassium, zinc, calcium and copper. Lentils provide both carbohydrates
and protein, making them a great addition to any meal. Lentils
help reduce your cholesterol and blood pressure, and they're
low in fat and calories to boot.
Bananas
Bananas provide a lot of potassium, an electrolyte that helps
maintain normal nerve and muscle function. Unlike some nutrients,
the body doesn't store potassium for long periods of time.
This means that your potassium level can drop during times
of stress or during strenuous exercise when the nutrient is
lost through excessive sweating. The sugar in bananas is an
easily digested form of carbohydrate.
Other fruits such as apples, grapes, peaches and pineapples
also make great energizing and refreshing snacks. We all
know we need to be eating more fruits in our diet!
Chocolate
Studies show that chocolate can elevate your energy levels
by way of certain bioactive compounds such as tyramine and
phenylethylamine. Chocolate has also been claimed to improve
anemia, awaken the appetite, aid in digestion, and improve
longevity. Chocolate contains sugar and caffeine along with
fat and calories so consume in moderation. When possible, opt
for dark chocolate or raw cacao for the highest source of antioxidants.
Almonds
These little guys are great if you're looking to improve your
focus and mental clarity. Monounsaturated fats such as almonds
provide essential fatty acids, known as omega-3s and omega-6s
that produce an alert mental state.
Healthy Fats
Other healthy fats to include in your diet are avocados, seeds,
nuts, olive oil, and fish oil. Of course, you'll want to check
with your health practitioner before making drastic changes
to your diet.
Incorporating these foods into your daily menu takes some
planning, so here are some ideas you can use to ensure you'll
have all the energy you need every day.
Breakfast
Smoothies: For breakfast, a banana fruit smoothie is a quick and easy
way to get the potassium your body requires for normal
function. In a blender, combine a small banana, some frozen
berries of your choice, ice, 1/2 cup low fat milk, and a teaspoon
of vanilla. You can also add a tablespoon of peanut butter
or some raw cacao powder as well.
Oatmeal: If you need a quick breakfast, you may not always think of
oatmeal, or you may think of instant oatmeal, which
isn't as nutritious. Some companies are making instant oatmeal
healthier by not adding as much sugar and artificial flavoring,
but you'll always want to compare the sugar and fiber amounts
across a few different brands to find the most nourishing oatmeal.
Cereals: Another great alternative to a bowl of hot oatmeal
is bran and muesli cereals. They contain a lot of the energy
boosting nutrients of oatmeal, and often contain healthy nuts
and dried fruits as well.
Snacks
Almonds: These nuts are perfect as a mid afternoon snack. Grab a handful
and take them to work with you in a snack cup
or baggie.
Dark
Chocolate: When you're feeling sluggish, a small dark chocolate
bar is all you need for a great pick me up that will
last longer than an hour or two.
Dinner Side Dishes
Beans: Lentils are a great side dish to enhance many dinner entrees
such as tacos and burgers. You can also make lentils
a main dish by combining several types into one dish as a bean
soup or bean casserole served with cornbread. Another way to
eat lentils is to add some pepper and melted shredded cheese
as part of a healthy lunch.
Working these naturally energizing foods into your daily routine
doesn't have to be difficult. With a little imagination and
effort, you can have all the energy you need to stay awake
and alert throughout the entire day!
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SolveYourProblem.com
: 2009
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