Kickstart Your Energy
When most people think of energy, they think of the following: caffeine, taurine, and sugars. However, there are natural ways to lift your energies through natural compounds such as magnesium, fatty acids, and antioxidants. Whether you're cutting out caffeine during pregnancy, or just want to save money, these 20 foods will help you feel awake without the additives.
1. Apples
Doctors don't recommend an apple a day for nothing. While artificial sugars can rot your teeth and led to a quick crash, the natural sugars and carbs in apples will keep your brain energized and teeth intact. Apples are also high in fiber and water content, which can aid in digestion.
2. Bananas
Low and calories but high in nutrients, bananas are a great pick-me-up for immediate energy. The high potassium and vitamin B6 can help stabilize blood sugars and even reduce headaches. B6 is also important for the production of serotonin, the happy chemical.
3. Salmon
You probably know that salmon is high in omega-3, but do you actually know what that means? Omega-3 aids cognitive function, cutting through brain fog like a hot knife through butter. Other fatty, cold-water fish such as rainbow trout, mackerel, and tuna have the same or similar benefits.
4. Brown Rice
Hunger leads to exhaustion and irritability, but brown rice will keep you feeling fuller for longer than white rice. Focusing on your stomach can lead to distractions, which is why brown rice is a great side dish to help you through long days.
5. Eggs
Did you know that eggs have the highest complete protein of any food? A whopping 97% of those proteins can be absorbed by your body. While we'll never say no to a loaded omelette or a good scramble, hard-boiling your eggs cuts out butter and oil for one of the healthiest ways to get your protein in.
6. Sweet Potatoes
Just like other varieties of potato, sweet potatoes are about as versatile as they come. Eaten as a snack, side, or main course these vibrant orange tubers are chock-full of vitamin A and manganese. Not to be confused with magnesium, manganese helps break down nutrients to increase your energy.
7. Peppermint
Peppermint may be known for its soothing properties, but even a brief sniff of it can be enough to perk your brain up. Peppermint leaves contain antioxidants, which are renowned for their anti-inflammation properties. Adding a few leaves to your salad or berries won't just brighten up your plate, it can also brighten up your day.
8. Greek Yogurt
Due to its higher protein content, Greek yogurt keeps you full for longer than other yogurts can ever dream of. Its magnesium and carbohydrates are easily broken down and converted into useful energy. We recommend buying plain yogurt and adding your own fruit and/or toppings for a balanced breakfast with fewer preservatives.
9. Oats
Oats may not be a replacement for a second cup of coffee, but they can definitely reduce the need for it. The complex carbohydrates found in oats include protein and fiber which keep you energized and stable.
10. Leafy Greens
If your primary association of leafy greens is with sad salads, think again. Vibrant vegetables such as spinach, kale, and arugula are loaded with essential nutrients such as iron and calcium. Leafy greens also contain antioxidants and folic acid, which is essential for the creation of new cells.
11. Avocados
Avocados are a great breakfast food to help you wake up. They're packed with healthy monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats that help stabilize your blood-fat levels. Avocado also contains high amounts of fiber and vitamin B to lift you even higher.
12. Tea
Is it cheating if this list is about food and we include a drink? Possibly. While some black teas contain amounts of caffeine similar or equal to coffee, there are a ton of decaffeinated varieties such as green, oolong, and white teas. And that isn't even getting into fruit or herbal blends!
13. Dark Chocolate
Dark chocolate lifts your mood for two simple reasons. The first is that it's filled with iron, zinc, magnesium and more. The second reason is that you're eating a delicious piece of dark chocolate. Either way, this treat lowers your cortisol and improves blood flow.
14. Berries
Berries come in almost every color of the rainbow and have the same gorgeous array of health benefits. High in antioxidants while low on sugar, a cup of berries can be just what you need for a mid-afternoon boost. We recommend goji and acai berries!
15. Beets
Bright red beets give a burst of energy to your system. Along with tons of fiber and antioxidants, beets are full of carbs and natural sugar. They're great roasted as chips or tossed in a salad.
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16. Lentils
These unassuming legumes may just be a superfood in disguise. Lentils are full of folate and manganese in addition to more basic nutrients such as zinc and iron. Not only will they keep you full between meals, but they'll also keep you regular.
17. Nuts
Snacking on nuts throughout the day is a great way to keep your energy up while curbing those empty-calorie cravings. DIY your own trailmix with sunflower seeds, dark chocolate chips, raisins, and nuts of your choice for a snack that will keep you going.
18. Broccoli
Did you know that broccoli, cauliflower, and brussels sprouts all belong to a category called "cruciferous vegetables"? Did you know that crcuiferous vegetables are especially high in lutein and other antioxidants? Well, now you do.
19. Oranges
If you crave the boost of artificial sugar, vitamin C won't give you quite the same kick, but it'll get you close. Tropical fruits such as kiwi, papaya, and especially oranges are super sources of vitamin C. The vitamins and natural sugars will perk you up while satiating your sweet tooth.
20. Hummus
Leave the high-cal ranch in the refrigerator drawer, and dip your veggies in hummus instead. This savory blend of chickpeas and tahini is jam-packed with good stuff. Fiber and protein are just the tip of this delicious iceberg.
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