8 Energy Boosting Foods

 

Missed me? well I am back and as you can see there are changes on the blog, which means it is bigger and better. There are a lot in the goody bag, more food recipes, weight loss tips, healthy living and much more. So lets see the top 8 energy boosting foods.

YOGURT
If you’re eating carbs, add some protein. When added to carbs, protein slows digestion further, for more sustained energy. Greek yogurt in particular is packed with protein, boasting 15 to 20 grams per 6-ounce serving—about the same as in 2 to 3 ounces of lean meat. Traditional yogurt typically provides about 5 grams of protein. Either way, it’s a great breakfast, especially when combined with granola. Just make sure to choose a variety with less added sugar.

Nuts

Ever wonder why peanut butter sandwiches were Mom’s go-to lunch for you? Nuts are an excellent source of protein, fiber, and nutrients. A tablespoon of peanut butter on whole
wheat bread is a quick, satisfying lunch that will help you push through the mid-afternoon doldrums.
Need a snack? Try a handful of almonds or other nuts. Just don’t overdo it. Nuts are also high in calories, and a mere quarter-cup equals one serving.

Fruit

Often called “nature’s dessert,” fruit is a great way to satisfy those sweet cravings, and is another excellent source of healthy carbohydrates. Plus, it’s packed with vitamins and minerals like vitamins A and C, which help prevent infections and keep you healthy. The USDA recommends up to 2½ cups of fruit (and vegetables) a day for the average adult.
To get your daily allowance, try adding berries to your morning cereal or yogurt, or grab an apple or banana to take to work as an easy portable snack.

Fish and Shellfish

Quick-cooking, light, and delicious—it’s no wonder the USDA recommends we consume two servings of fish and shellfish a week. Low in fat, seafood like salmon is an excellent source of lean protein and omega 3 fatty acids—important in protecting heart health.
Seafood is also an excellent source of minerals like iron, a component in hemoglobin that is helpful in carrying oxygen throughout the body. Clams and oysters in particular provide 30 to 45 percent of your daily value of iron per serving.

Beans

Yeah, yeah, you know the old joke. But beans are in fact very good for your heart. They are a significant source of low-fat protein (especially for vegetarians) as well as iron, magnesium, calcium, potassium, and B vitamins, all of which support healthy metabolism. Add them to tomatoes and vegetables to make a hearty bean stew; puree them with tahini to make a hummus dip; or add to whole-wheat pasta and greens for an Italian-inspired meal.

Dark Leafy Vegetables

When choosing a vegetable, select one that’s rich in color, because that also means it’s rich in nutrients. The dark greens of collards, Swiss chard, spinach, and other leafy vegetables supply generous servings of vitamins A and C, calcium, iron, fiber, and protein.
In fact, a single serving of spinach can supply over 200 percent of your daily allowance of vitamin A according to the Office of Dietary Supplements (ODS). Plus, leafy greens are easy to prepare: just boil them or add to a stir-fry for a quick dose of nutrition.

Dark Chocolate

It’s estimated that the average American consumes about 3.6 ounces of chocolate per week. Believe it or not, that’s actually OK—as long as it’s the right type of chocolate. Dark chocolate—and the less processed the better—is rich in a type of antioxidant called a flavanol, which studies have shown can help protect heart health. And a healthier heart means more oxygen delivered, which translates into higher energy levels.

Popcorn

Popcorn can be a great, low-fat, yet filling snack food. As a whole grain, it’s chock-full of fiber in an easy-to-eat form. Just be wary of theatre popcorn, which is heavy on salt, oil, and calories. Instead, choose air-popped corn if available, or microwave a low-fat version at home.

Water

Readily available, cheap, and good for you, water helps carry nutrients to your cells. Even mild dehydration can sap your energy, so drink a glass of water, milk, juice, or other low- or no-calorie beverage when you are thirsty and before, during, and after exercise. You should be getting at least eight 8-ounces of fluid each day.  Much of that requirement you will get from the food you eat.  Drink water when you are thirsty.

Water-rich foods—like watermelon or oranges—will count toward fluid intake. Just don’t depend too much on caffeinated drinks like coffee, tea, or soda, which can make you jittery, add un-necessary calories and affect your sleep.