The Method
One of the most important components of naturally maintaining sustained levels of energy is simply to maintain a healthy, balanced daily diet. With a packed work/home/family/etc. schedule, this can seem very difficult, many usually you need not look further than your local grocery or health food store. But in case you need some extra inspiration, here are a few simple steps to follow.
1. Eat regular modest meals with energy-packed snacks in between, if necessary.
2. Stay hydrated, day and night. This means keeping a water bottle in the car, at your desk at work, and on the bedside table.
3. Make sure your meals are comprised of nutrient-rich foods. Avoid what many call "empty calories". These calories, while scientifically proven to be full of scrumptious fat and refined sugars, contain very few of those lovely energy-giving nutrients and complex sugars.
The Foods
Number three on the above list can be the most baffling. What do I eat? What foods give me energy naturally? Broadly speaking, you should focus on eliminating refined sugars, which are found in foods like white bread, candies, sugary soft drinks and all Hostess products ever, and increase the amount of whole grains, fresh fruits and vegetables and nutrient-dense foods in our diets. Here are some foods that give you energy naturally:
Trail Mix
The main idea of this energy-packed snack is a balanced mix of dried fruits, nuts and seeds. These foods are packed not only with calories but also with nutrients, fiber, protein and good, healthy fats. Fiber is an important component here because it actually helps slow down the release of glucose, as opposed to highly refined carbs which are rapidly broken down into glucose, resulting in quick short lived energy followed by a crash. Try making your own trail mix, rather than purchasing a chocolate-laden pre-made version, and include pumpkin seeds, which provide high levels of protein as well as magnesium, phosphorus and zinc.
Eggs
The king of protein, the humble egg is also rich in B vitamins, which are key to our bodies' ability to convert food into energy. To avoid the high levels of fat and cholesterol in egg yolks, make omelets, scrambles or sandwiches with one whole egg plus two egg whites.
Quinoa
This whole grain not only provides great lasting energy but it also contains very high levels of protein and lysine, which help restore energy and aid in recovering quickly from strenuous energy-draining activities.
Fresh fruits
Fruits like apples, melons and berries are excellent sources of natural sugars, which can provide quick energy up front because of their high sugar content, and then lasting energy due to their high levels of fiber. They're a great choice for a satisfying and low-fat snack that provides natural energy.
Soybeans
Often called "edemame" in the supermarket, these fresh little beans pack a lot of energy. They have high levels of B vitamins as well as the essential nutrients, copper and phosphorous, and they're high in fiber, protein and complex carbohydrates, which provide us with long-lasting energy.
Overall
Although it may seem difficult, it really is quite easy to find foods that will boost your energy level. The next time you are thinking of reaching for that energy drink or that second cup of coffee, consider that there are other options that are much healthier for you and that will give you the energy you are looking for.
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