Your diet affects your energy levels throughout the day, whether you are exercising hard or just trying to eat healthy and stay sharp at work. When looking for a boost of energy and ways to maintain it, a few healthy choices and small snacks can make a big difference.
Whole Grains, Nuts and Seeds
A healthy way to start the day is with a whole grain cereal. This high-fiber food is filling, leaving you less likely to be hungry later. Components of fiber are indigestible, acting as cleansers that help rid the system of toxins and free radicals.
Seeds like sunflower and pumpkin seeds are good sources of energy, and they are high in proteins and fats that easily transfer into energy. Nuts such as almonds and peanuts are known to reduce cholesterol levels and fight cardiovascular disease. Peanut butter is also a great energy snack.
Eggs, Yogurt and Pasta
Egg whites are heavy in protein, while egg yokes are loaded with B vitamins. Hard boiled eggs are an easy snack on the go, serving a blast of energy when needed.
Yogurt is also a good source of protein and Vitamin B. Mixed with a serving of fruit for a power combination, or on its own, this snack is a favorite among athletes and healthy eaters.
Pasta can sometimes get a bad rap for being nothing more than carbohydrates, but in moderation, small servings of pasta are a great way to store energy that lasts for later use. Whole wheat pasta is a good choice.
Fruits, Vegetables and Beans
Vegetables like spinach, broccoli and asparagus are loaded with A, C, E and K vitamins, plus magnesium, all important in the production of energy. Great for snacking and meals, these vegetables are instant energy providers.
Fruits have long been known to give a boost of simple sugars. They are high in Vitamin C and antioxidants. Oranges are a superb choice for fast energy, and freshly squeezed orange juice is digested even faster.
Kidney beans, baked beans and Lima beans are all excellent sources of protein and sustainable energy. They help level out blood sugars to avoid a crash after a boost of energy.
It's important not to forget water. Hydrating eliminates toxins from the blood, cleans organs and helps turn nutrients into energy. Water is the basis of the human digestive system.
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