We all get that slump that you just can’t shake where tiredness takes over. Sometimes we haven’t eaten enough, sometimes we’ve eaten too much! Either way, food plays a key part in our energy levels. To help you ward off tiredness, we’ve searched for the best foods to make you feel more energised and as sharp as a knife.
1 – An energy boost with Chia Seeds
Small but mighty. Chia seeds contain the right ratio of protein, fats and fibre. This gives you an energy boost without a crash. Chia seeds have also been dubbed a “running food” as they consist of magnesium, potassium, iron and the antioxidant quercetin. All of which are great for helping you with athletic performance and recovery.
2 – Healthy food deliveries
Food delivery services have become incredibly popular throughout lockdown. The UK’s highest-rated recipe box, Mindful Chef, chooses to load their boxes full of fresh produce that will help you look and feel your best. Plus – it’s available on MyActiveDiscounts, with £10 off your first two boxes!
Eating Mindful Chef recipes on a regular basis has visible health benefits. Clearer skin, more energy, more focus and feeling leaner are just some of the benefits of following a mindful diet. It’s no surprise that they’re the Official Nutrition Partner to the English Institute of Sport – powering top athletes in the build up to major competitions. Mindful by name, mindful by nature!
3 – Say goodbye to coffee and hello to Green Tea
It’s very easy to rely on coffee when you are tired but that is a very unhealthy habit. It provides you with an instant boost that perks you up but the problem is it is only a short-term solution. It doesn’t actually provide your body with energy. When you find yourself tired and reaching for coffee, so why not try green tea instead? Tea not only contains caffeine but the amino acid theanine, which can improve attention and alertness without the jitters. Nonetheless, green tea has components that have been proven to boost metabolism and protect against fatigue.
4 – Stay alert with Oatmeal
Oats are high in fibre and protein. They are great if you are feeling tired as they are essential to boosting energy. If you eat oatmeal for breakfast it will help to stabilise your blood sugar for the whole day. Unlike bingeing on processed foods as they cause your blood sugar to crash as quickly as it rose. A International Journal of Food Sciences and Nutrition study revealed people who eat a breakfast high in complex-carbohydrates feel the most alert in comparison to people who have a breakfast high in fat.
5 – Bananas for alertness
Similar to oatmeal, bananas are a complex carbohydrate and are a great natural energy booster. They also contain an amino acid called tyrosine, which helps produce norepinephrine and can improve alertness. Bananas are also rich in potassium, which the body needs to convert sugar into energy and combat tiredness.
6 – Watermelon helps you stay hydrated
Being hydrated is key to maintaining energy. However, we know that drinking lots of water can get a little bit boring. When you are feeling dehydrated try munching on some watermelon to get your hydration and energy levels up. Even being mildly dehydrated can leave you feeling foggy and fatigued. Watermelon is made up of 90% water. It is rich in electrolytes and in fatigue-fighter nutrients like potassium, vitamin C, beta-carotene and iron.
7 – Spinach for protein
We all know leafy greens aren’t everyone’s favourite food… However, spinach is full of healthy nutrients to keep you healthy and energetic. It is a great source of iron. Along with containing a range of vitamins and minerals including magnesium, and vitamin B and C. Not only that but it is packed full of protein for energy! Foods containing magnesium are good for you. Because they can prevent feeling tired and physical weakness.
8 – Say bye to tiredness with eggs
There is a simple explanation as to why so many people eat eggs for breakfast. They are a fantastic source of protein, meaning they keep you full and alert. Eggs also contain the B vitamin choline. This is good for improving brain function, thus helping you to be sharper. They are also a great source of iron and zinc!
