As a person gets older, it becomes more difficult to spring into action in the morning, let alone sustain that energy throughout the day. This is in contrast to young children, who have more energy than they know what to do with. While it’s not possible to go back in time, you can recapture some of this youthful energy by taking care of your health and eating the right foods.
Here are some energy-boosting foods that might help:
1.) Almonds
Nuts are loaded with healthy fats that can not only ease your hunger, but also reduce your risk of developing heart disease. Carry a handful in a plastic baggie and you’ll have a quick snack to eat wherever you go, between regular meals. You can also drink almond milk, or substitute peanut butter with almond butter, and receive the same benefits. Almond products might cost more than what you’re used to, but the benefit to your health is more than money can buy.
2.) Kale
Green vegetables are one type of food you should eat throughout the day. Salads are some of the best natural foods for weight loss, but when you smother them with fattening dressings and toppings, you cancel out most of their health benefits. There are many creative ways to enjoy kale and you can find lots of interesting recipes online. You can serve it as a side dish (raw), put in in your burgers, blend it into smoothies, or even bake it into kale chips.
3.) Blueberries
Blueberries are loaded with antioxidants that protect your body from damage caused by free radicals. Wild blueberries are particularly potent because of the additional compounds they produce to protect themselves from UV rays. In terms of health benefits, they’re great for improving memory and lowering your blood pressure. They’re also low on the glycemic index, so you won’t have to worry about blood sugar spikes.
4.) Eggs
Eggs are usually thought of as a breakfast food, but there’s no reason you can’t eat them at any time of day. They’re packed with protein and are one of the most nutritious foods you can provide your body with. If there’s any doubt, consider that they contain everything necessary to turn a single cell into a chicken. A single egg contains vitamins A, B2, B5, B6, B9 (folate), B12, D, E and K, as well as minerals like calcium, zinc, phosphorus and selenium.
5.) Fish
When it comes to high-protein, low-fat foods, fish is at the top of the list. White-fleshed fish actually have less fat than any other source of animal protein. However, there are some fats that are good for you and oily fish are loaded with them. These healthy fats are known as “Omega-3 fatty acids.” They’re good for both your heart and your brain. Omega-3 fatty acids also help reduce inflammation and can bring relief to those suffering from rheumatoid arthritis.
Remember that you shouldn’t expect to come bursting to life after one handful of blueberries or a serving of kale. These are healthy foods, not illegal drugs with artificial stimulants. The natural energy you get from them is the result of incorporating them into your diet and restoring your body to a proper state of health.