Natural Energy Boost
No one is full of energy all the time. We all experience peaks and valleys throughout the day. Often we turn to caffeine-filled drinks such as coffee, or sugary things such as chocolate bars, for a quick pick-me-up. While they may initially be effective, they’re not the best choice. The energy they provide is short-lived, and they’re just not very good for us.
That’s not to say that snacks can’t give us the energy we need. Certain foods can give us a healthy energy boost that won’t end in a crash. Here are some to try the next time you find yourself dragging:
* Bananas – A banana is a perfect nutritious snack when you’re on the go. It’s easily portable and tastes great. And it can provide you with energy when you need it the most. Bananas are rich in carbohydrates, and they also contain lots of potassium.
* Whole-grain cereal – Cereals that contain whole grains contain large amounts of fiber. Unlike simple sugars, the carbohydrates contained in those cereals provide energy gradually. That means that instead of a massive yet short burst of energy, you’ll get a more moderate amount of energy that lasts several hours.
* Bran muffins – A bran muffin also provides lots of fiber and carbs. If you don’t have time for cereal, this is a good alternative.
* Nuts – All types of nuts are wonderful energy boosters. They contain carbohydrates, protein and fat, providing for both quick and long-term energy increases.
* Peanut butter crackers – Peanut butter is high in fat and protein. Crackers contain carbohydrates. Put the two together, and you have an ideal energy-boosting snack.
* Trail mix – Trail mix contains nuts, with their multiple sources of energy, and dried fruits. Dried fruit packs plenty of fiber and carbohydrates into a small and easily transportable package.
* Spinach – Particularly in women, a lack of energy may be attributable to low iron levels. Spinach contains a great deal of iron, and it also provides a number of essential vitamins.
* Yogurt – Yogurt is high in magnesium, which is a key player in energy production. It also aids in the metabolism of protein and carbohydrates.
* Dark chocolate – Milk chocolate is notorious for providing a short-lived energy burst. But dark chocolate contains less sugar, fewer calories and more beneficial antioxidants, while providing the same energy-producing compounds found in milk chocolate. Still, it’s best to consume dark chocolate in moderation.
When we need a little extra energy, we don’t have to head to the coffee maker. A carefully chosen snack can give us that boost we need to keep going. And unlike a caffeine rush, it won’t leave us feeling worse than we did to start with later on.
