Get more energy from the food you eat! Here are some tips to get you started:
CONSUME A WIDE VARIETY OF WHOLE FOODS
This means eating more vegetables, fruits, whole grains, nuts, seeds, healthy fats, and lean protein.
EAT THE RAINBOW!
Eat a variety of different color fruits and vegetables to maximize antioxidants intake and energy
GET MORE IRON FROM PLANTS
Think beans, lentils, seeds, spinach, and other dark leafy greens. Consume Vitamin C rich foods to boost absorption
START YOUR DAY WITH A BOOST!
Add fiber, healthy fats, or lean protein for a more filling and energizing breakfast.
LIMIT FOODS AND BEVERAGES THAT CAN CAUSE CRASHES
Sugary foods and drinks, caffeine (too much), and alcohol
TRY NOT TO SKIP MEALS
After all, food is fuel!
Incorporate more of the foods that are high in energizing vitamins and minerals: beans, lentils, legumes, nuts, seeds, peanuts, fatty fishes like salmon, oats, barley, brown rice, sweet potatoes, mushrooms, and even pure cacao or dark chocolate - 70 percent or more!
Try this quick, easy, and energizing "recipe" for a tasty breakfast or dessert:
FRUIT AND CHOCOLATE YOGURT PARFAIT
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Yield: 1
Ingredients
1 C Plain Greek yogurt
1 tsp Vanilla extract
1 inch square of 70 percent or higher dark chocolate
1/2 cup assorted fresh berries
Instructions
Fill a small bowl with yogurt; stir in vanilla extract.
Put dark chocolate in a zip-top bag and crush, or place on cutting board and shave with a paring knife. Sprinkle chocolate onto yogurt.
Top with fresh berries. Enjoy!
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Alison Bradow is the chronic disease prevention coordinator at the YMCA of Metropolitan Lansing. Visit her ymcaoflansing.org