What Foods Are Best For Energy
Fast paced as our lives are today it is easy to run out of energy and give in to fatigue before the day is over. This is as much due to the work and lifestyle pressure as it is due to the wrong foods we take and diets gone awry.
Eating on the run might fill you up temporarily and provide some instant energy but it does not provide adequate fuel for your body to sustain itself in the long run.
For these you need more than mere food. You need the super foods to make your strong and powerful. Try out the 10 best foods for energy and long term good health.
A look at the 10 best foods for energy:
Almonds: Almonds are considered super foods for many reasons. They are great sources of protein, fiber, and essential nutrients like vitamins, riboflavin, iron, magnesium and calcium. The monounsaturated fat lowers cholesterol levels while the proteins control blood sugar and keep energy levels high all day.
Apples: Apples are full of fiber that keeps one full for a long time. They are nature’s way of providing instant energy. Vitamin C in the apple strengthens immune powers, helps form collagen. Keeps blood vessels healthy and helps in cell regeneration. It can also lower and control blood cholesterol and blood glucose levels.
Broccoli: This essential green is full of antioxidants vitamins A and C which prevents cell damage and aids in cell building. It also supplies the body with essential nutrients like folate, potassium, calcium and fiber which keep the system full, improves immune functions and supplies the body with large doses of energy.
Salmon: Salmon is one the healthiest fish to eat. It supplies the body with healthy doses of protein which in turn provides us with loads of energy. It is low in cholesterol and saturated fats but very high in omega-3 fatty acids which make it a very heart healthy food. Prevents easy blood clots, lowers blood pressure and stroke risks and controls irregular heartbeats.
Spinach: There is a reason why Popeye loves spinach – it gives him instant energy and makes him all powerful! In reality the spinach does have near magical powers because it provides the body with nutrients like riboflavin, calcium, folate, iron and magnesium along with vitamins A and C and B-6. Together they improve immune functions and energize the body.
Whole Wheat: Whole wheat products are the true sources for the wheat germ. The wheat germ has a high concentration of proteins, fiber, vitamin E, and other essential nutrients like niacin, riboflavin, thiamin, magnesium, folate, phosphorus, iron, potassium and zinc. When processed much of these are lost so opting for whole wheat or whole grain products is a healthier decision since they stabilize glucose and cholesterol levels and provide the body with lots of energy.
Oats: This breakfast super food is a great source of energy and nutrients. The vitamin B in oats easily transforms the carbohydrates into energy which enables the body to function efficiently for the whole day. They are very fibrous which means that fill up the body for a long time and suppress appetite.
Bananas: All fruits are great sources of energy but the banana leads the pack. It is full of natural sugar that is instantly absorbed by the body in the form of carbohydrates which produce loads of energy. They are great sources of potassium that leads to healthy nerve and muscle functions.
Water: By itself water is unremarkable. But lack of it can create havoc. One should drink at least 8 – 10 glasses of water each day. Without water the body cannot regulate temperature, nutrients will not pass to cells, energy cannot be generated, digestion will be difficult – in short the body cannot function. To make sure it does and you have lots of energy all day have as much water as you can to prevent dehydration.
Chocolate: Chocolates are instant sources of energy. Of course they not really as good for health as the above ingredients but when taken in moderation or during emergencies they have amazingly invigorating effects. The caffeine along with the tyramine and phenylethylamine compounds can increase energy levels but also makes it unhealthy. Opt for dark chocolates which are loaded with antioxidants as well as energy.