Do you find yourself complaining you’re tired even though you’ve just gotten out of bed? Well, this could be because of what you’re eating. Dr. Joey Shulman explains which foods will give us energy, and which foods will put us to sleep.
The number one complaint in doctor’s offices is fatigue. Luckily, there are certain foods that you can eat to help boost your energy and vitality. A few of the top energy-boosting foods include:
- Pumpkin seeds and sesame seeds: Seeds help to regulate your sugars and extend your energy. Pumpkin seeds are rich in protein, B vitamins, magnesium and iron (which helps fight fatigue). You can eat them raw, add them to salads or roast them up.
- Pineapple: This fruit is loaded with vitamin C and vitamin A. They also contain an antioxidant called bromelain which has anti-inflammatory properties and aids with digestive capacity.
- Garlic: It may be bad for breath, but it’s good for energy! Garlic contains a fibre called inulin, which is said to help you feel fuller for longer. Inulin also helps you to absorb iron, playing an important role in preventing fatigue.
- Vitamin C-rich foods: Apricots, oranges and strawberries all contain antioxidant power and help to strengthen your immune system. They are also filled with fibre and are low on calories.
- Leafy greens: Kale, spinach, chard, lettuce and collard greens are all in the family of leafy greens. Greens are literally the number one food you should select to improve your health and energy.
- Peas: Sweet peas are a terrific source of vegetarian protein and are also rich in fibre and low in calories (1 cup of peas has only 100 calories). Due to peas’ high level of protein and fibre, they are very beneficial for weight management and for blood sugar regulation. They also contain antioxidants called polyphenols and carotenoids which have anti-aging properties.
- Water: Water helps to flush the digestive system, improves skin and helps to sustain energy for the entire day. You should aim to drink 2 litres of water per day.
Now that you know which foods will give you energy, you’re going to want to stay away from these energy-zapping foods:
- Candy: Whether it’s jelly beans, licorice, or juice berries, these bounce energy and blood sugars up and down and promote belly fat storage. They are a very quick solution to cravings for fatigue that often results in wanting more.
- Salty foods: Chips and pretzels can make you feel bloated, lethargic and swollen for 1-2 days due to fluid retention.
- Deep-fried foods: French fries and onion rings will affect you in the same way as salty foods.
- Dense carbohydrates: Bagels and pizza also bounce around your blood sugars. They’re also hard to digest and therefore leave you feeling sluggish and “food tired”.
Courtesy Dr. Joey Shulman