Besides sleep, one of the things you need for a proper amount of energy is food. You are what you eat and when you eat right, you can stay healthy and energized all day long. But what exactly should you be eating for better energy?
While it’s easy to pop an energy supplement from Thorne Research at Supplement First, you should prioritize your diet when it comes to getting enough energy. This means eating the right food at just enough portions to maintain your blood sugar levels. Let’s take a look at the different foods to eat for energy:
Non-Caffeinated Beverages
Yeah, you read that right. You might have presumed that caffeine is the savior of all energy, may it be through your coffee or from caffeine supplements like Vital Nutrients at Supplement First. We’re not saying caffeine is evil, though. It’s okay to have it in moderation because of its health benefits and while it can give you a short-term boost, your body actually doesn’t get energy from it.
If you need to have your fix of caffeine, you can try black coffee or unsweetened tea. Avoid sodas and energy drinks at all costs, which are filled with refined sugars
Fresh Fruits and Vegetables
The fresher the food is, the more nutrients it has. Compared to processed foods that may have fewer nutrients for a longer shelf life, fresh fruits and vegetables have higher nutrients. We also recommend consuming in-season fruits and veggies, which means they ripened naturally.
Lean Proteins
Red meats marbled in fats have more saturated fat than you need. That’s why you’ll want to consume leaner meats, including chicken, fish, and turkey. You can get high-quality protein with less saturated fat.
This doesn’t mean fat is always unhealthy! You will still need good fat in your diet, such as omega-3 fatty acids that come from fatty fish like salmon and tuna.
Nuts and Seeds
Nuts and seeds are some of the best sources of energy! It doesn’t only help with your energy levels, it can also keep you satiated for longer. If you’re unsure of what types of nuts and seeds to start with, here are a few suggestions:
- Almonds
- Brazil nuts
- Cashew nuts
- Hazelnuts
- Pecans
- Walnuts
- Pumpkin seeds
- Sunflower seeds
Opt for raw, unsalted versions! You can incorporate them into your meals or have them as a snack when you’re feeling sluggish.
Drink Lots of Water
This isn’t a type of food but it’s worth mentioning how important water is for our bodies to function excellently. While we don’t get energy from water in the form of calories, it facilitates the energetic processes in our bodies, which is also an energy boost!
So, when you feel a bit tired come afternoon, drink a glass of water instead of coffee or sodas. This is such a simple change that can make a huge difference!
Wrapping It Up
Incorporate these foods and beverages into your diet and notice your energy levels start to improve!
