Healthy foods are packed with energy-boosting nutrients
You need energy and you need it fast. What do you have to eat? Availability often determines our choices. A little preparation goes a long way in healthy eating. Boost your energy level and overall health by feeding your body a constant supply of whole foods such as fresh vegetables, fruits and whole grains. Make it as easy to choose cut-up veggies or fruit as it is to grab a bag of chips. Your effort will give a healthy return: a balanced diet will provide you with more energy, mental clarity and stamina.
Carbohydrates
Carbs are the body's preferred form of fuel because they can be quickly converted to glucose for energy. There are two groups of carbohydrates, simple and complex. Simple carbohydrates are found in many cereals, snack foods, soft drinks, crackers, breads and even pasta. They are processed by the body quickly which means you will have a boost of energy soon after eating; however, it will only last for a short time, followed by a crash. For longer-lasting energy choose complex carbohydrates such as potatoes, rice and whole grains.
Powerful Combinations
Eat protein along with the carbohydrates to slow down the rate at which your body absorbs them. Hummus with veggies on a whole-grain wrap; yogurt with nuts and berries or low-fat turkey, cheese, and pear on whole-grain crackers are great choices for a boost of energy. Don't include too many fats, which can make you feel sluggish. Enhance nutritional value of certain foods by combining them, like broccoli and turmeric. Mixed meals with protein, complex carbohydrates and a small amount of healthy fats are the foundation for an energizing diet.
Frequency
Eat six smaller meals, or three down-sized meals with three snacks. This will keep your energy level balanced throughout the day. Watch your portion sizes. Favor fresh vegetables and fruits. Get creative with dips of salsa, yogurt, melted cheese and hummus. Focus on adding healthy foods to your diet rather than banning old favorites. Health food author and fitness trainer Jillian Michels' list of healthiest foods includes berries, bananas, beans, cucumbers, cantaloupe, strawberries, mango, spinach, salmon, nuts, oats, whole grains, pumpkin seeds and dark chocolate. The food you put into your body determines the energy that your body will put out.
Tags: your body, whole grains, boost energy, complex carbohydrates, energy level, fresh vegetables, fresh vegetables fruits