Tired, Hungry, Cranky? Nope. Not You. Not Anymore.
So it’s 4 PM, you’ve been sitting in front of a computer screen for awhile and you’re definitely struggling. While your work day is coming to a close, chances are the rest of your day is action packed. Fatigue breaks us down not only physically, but emotionally too. It wreaks absolute havoc on our precious immune systems which makes us even more susceptible to illness and depression. Not fun. Even more important to fuel our bodies the right way so we boost our mood and energy naturally instead of turning to caffeine and sugar-filled snacks. While sugar rushes and caffeine highs will give us that temporary hit, they will only slow you down and leave you even more tired after the high has worn off!
So next time you feel that pesky slump coming on, Grab these high energy foods to phix that mood.
Salmon
Salmon is a great source of the energy-boosting goodness that is essential omega-3 fatty acids, which are important for energy production, brain activity and circulation. It’s also great for maintaining heart health.
Banana
Bananas are one of the world’s best foods for supplying your body with energy. Rich in potassium and B vitamins, they can provide your body with a more sustained release of energy. The supply of vitamins and carbohydrates in bananas make you feel full, help slow down digestion and keep blood sugar levels stable. Bananas make awesome smoothie bases. Here’s a killer one.
Coconut
The oils that are found in coconut provide a super nutritious source of energy as it primarily consists of medium chain triglycerides, a type of fat that is turned into energy quickly and efficiently. Coconut is utilized by the body to actually produce energy rather than store it as fat. That’s what we want! Coconut is an awesome food to prevent you from feeling sluggish throughout the day.
Lentils
Lentils and other legumes, like kidney beans and chickpeas, help stabilize blood glucose levels and prevent those mid-afternoon crashes you’ve struggled through so many times before. By incorporating lentils into your lunchtime meal, you will stretch your energy levels that little bit further and avoid the slump altogether.
Eggs
Now eggs are an absolutely awesome source of iron and protein! They are also naturally rich in B-vitamins which are responsible for converting food into energy. Eggs are sure to give you a sustainable hit of energy which will last throughout the whole day.
Kale
So you know my love affair with Kale. Forget the afternoon coffee and grab a green juice. Kale truly is a superfood! High in vitamins and minerals, kale is one of the best vegetables you can fuel your body with and is a real energy booster as it provides you with the essential minerals of copper, potassium, iron and phosphorus. Try this awesome power salad.
Nuts
Almonds, cashews and hazelnuts are all high in magnesium and selenium, which plays a major role in converting sugar into energy, and are also filled with fiber to keep your blood sugar levels even. Keep a bag at your desk and just a handful at 3PM will give you longer lasting energy than a cup of coffee ever will. Homemade almond milk warmed up is a great alternative to coffees and also the most nutritious bases. Yum, add your fav flavours.
Quinoa
Gluten-free Quinoa contains more protein than any other grain or rice. It is so rich in amino acids that it is considered a complete source of protein; high in lysine, methionine and cysteine. Even better, it is also high in folate, magnesium, phosphorus and manganese, making it a nutrient-packed source of carbohydrates for lasting energy levels. This is the ultimate food to boost your mood! Here’s my latest fav salad.
Goji Berries
Goji berries have been used for literally thousands of years in Chinese medicine to help increase energy and enhance the release of hormones. They increase the body’s ability to handle stress and support healthy mood, mind and memory- all while giving you the get-up-and-go energy you need to get through the day! And they taste pretty good too. What more could you want?
Raw Cacao
Okay, I have a serious love for raw cacao. This potent powder is the rawest and purest form of chocolate—Yup chocolate—before it becomes the refined sugary bar you purchase in a pinch. Raw cacao is loaded in iron, magnesium and phosphorus. Raw cacao can easily be incorporated into your daily by drinking my all time favourite smoothie or eating this healthy sweet power bar.