Feeling low on energy? Need something other than a coffee to boost your energy levels when that 3pm slump hits? Try these 5 foods to skyrocket your energy levels and improve your health at the same time.
5 Foods to Skyrocket Your Energy Levels
1. Citrus Fruit
Citrus fruit such as lemons, oranges & grapefruit are great foods for helping to wake you up and give you a boost of energy. They are high in vitamin C which helps your body form amino acids which are an important part of helping you regulate your energy levels. Vitamin C also helps you absorb iron in foods so where you can combine a citrus fruit with a leafy green like kale to additionally boost your iron levels. The smell of citrus fruits also stimulates alertness. Add the juice of one lemon to hot water instead of a coffee in the morning and be amazed at how much more awake it actually makes you feel compared to your usual caffeine hit.
2. Nuts
Nuts are such a great on the go snack to have in your pocket for when those energy levels get low. They are high in protein, omega-3s and energy boosting vitamins B & E. Cashews, almonds & hazelnuts are additionally high in magnesium. Magnesium deficiency is a common cause of fatigue and so getting a daily boost of natural magnesium can be great for your energy levels. Nuts are also high in protein which is gives you longer lasting energy to get through the afternoon.
3. Acai berries
I was first introduced to acai berries while travelling in brazil. One of my friends was a Brazilian jui-jitsu fighter who trained for many hours each day and each day he would drink a large acai smoothie for energy. They all knew the energy boosting properties of this little super berry and although you may not be able to buy an acai smoothie on your street corner like these guys could you can easily make your own super smoothie to provide an instant boost of energy. Acai berries also boost your metabolism, are high in antioxidants, vitamins and fatty acids and can even help aid weight loss.
4. Apples & Bananas
Loaded with vitamins, antioxidants, fiber and natural sugars fruit is a great choice for times when you need a little energy boost. My favorites to grab when I’m low on energy are apples and bananas. Apples are so easy to take with you and I find can be a great energy boost in the morning to wake me up. Bananas are rich in antioxidants and lower in fiber so more easily digestible for a quick energy boost prior to a workout.
5. Dark Chocolate
This is great option to give you an instant boost of energy but make sure you keep it portion controlled. A couple of squares of dark chocolate (the darker the better) is a healthy energy boosting snack but a whole block could add a whole bunch of extra calories to your day. Dark chocolate contains caffeine and both theobromin and tryptophan, which are known to trigger mood-enhancing chemicals in the brain. Giving you energy and making you happy! Did you know that the longest living woman in the world (Jeanne Calment at 122yrs old) attributes her diet high in olive oil, wine and chocolate for her longevity? She was known to eat up to 1kg of chocolate every week! Have trouble with portioning out your dark chocolate? Try incorporating raw cacao into a homemade chocolate truffle such as this one.
Do you have a favorite energy food that has worked for you? Let us know in the comments below.
