Energy Foods You Should Be Eating

Is winter bringing you down? It is easy to fall into a slump. In fact, our bodies may need more encouragement this time of year. We have all been there. For instance, it’s midday, and you’re nodding off already. Then, you reach for a bag of potato chips. Yet, you still feel depleted. Maybe a chocolate bar? But, again, tired. While it’s true, your body will convert all food into energy. Not all foods are energy foods.

So, what can you do? There must be a better way!

First things first; Take a look at your diet. Including some high energy foods could be all you need. Have you ever heard the term “food is fuel?” Well, it’s true! We must think about what we are putting into our bodies. Foods that are high in sugars, fats, and sodium are not what we consider “energy foods.” But, it’s not all leafy greens and sweet potatoes. Above all, it’s about incorporating a variety of foods. Fuel your body, and you’ll fuel your day. Now that’s some food for thought, don’t you think? It seems simple enough. However, if you’re in need of some help, this month’s blog is for you.

Food For Thought

When energy is low, many people reach for caffeine. Sound like you? Five cups later and still not enough power? You may need a better solution.

Caffeine is a quick fix. You may feel a jolt of energy, reliable and fast. However, you are bound to crash soon. That’s the downfall of caffeine. From now on, reach for something better. Energy foods are high in protein, fiber, and complex carbs. If you eat a variation, you will be fuelled for the day.

Moving forward, let’s take a look at what we need each day. On average: 2,000 calories per day. But, this number varies. For more information on calorie intake see How Much Food Should I Eat Today?

However, it’s not just about how much. More importantly, it’s about what you consume. Indeed, one Big Mac meal may contain a whole day’s worth of calories. On the contrary, you gain very little nutrition.

Now, we are not saying you have to cut out fast-food altogether. It is all about balance. In other words, try and limit foods with empty calories. It’s a short-lived high, with a quick crash. You deserve better than that! After reading this blog, you will be full of great energy food ideas.

Energy Foods That Are Better Than Coffee

Better than coffee? That must be a joke. Nonetheless, it is not! The options are endless. Not convinced? Put one of these energy food options to the test:

Eggs

Ask any nutritionist, and they will tell you the benefits of the humble egg. They are packed with protein! Not to mention, they provide a steady flow of energy. Specifically, eggs contain a nutrient called leucine. In short, it helps stimulate the production of energy. Which is precisely what we are looking for. Moreover, most people enjoy eggs. It’s a great way to start your day!

For more information on the value of eggs, check out our blog Farm Fresh Eggs. Or to purchase eggs, Order Online, or stop by the store today. We are located in Bloomingdale, ON.

Bananas

Bananas are another energy food we highly suggest. Plus, it’s simple. And dare we say, trendy? Bananas are a source of carbs, potassium, and B6. With this fruit, you get the sweetness and nutrition. 

Furthermore, you won’t get the crash. It’s a win/win option. Eat a banana at any point in the day for a quick pick up.

Nuts

I am sure you have heard that nuts make a great snack. Well, it’s not without reason. Indeed, they do! Most nuts pack a powerful punch nutritionally. Especially, almonds. They are indeed a rock star in the snack world. The easiest of energy foods! Almonds contain nutrients such as magnesium and B vitamins.

Did you know that insufficient B vitamin intake leads to fatigue, irritability, and poor concentration? You only need to eat around 20 nuts/day! A quick and easy snack. Even for the ones on-the-go.

Chicken

Chicken is one of the leanest meats. It is the most common poultry choice in Canada. Plus, it’s full of nutrients. However, being lean and high in protein isn’t all that chicken has to offer. Adding this meat to your diet has several benefits.

First, chicken has been known as a stress reliever. Less stress = more energy. This is due to the tryptophan and vitamin B5. These nutrients are stress-reducing, and chicken has a healthy source. Additionally, it contains magnesium, which is thought to reduce the symptoms of PMS in women.

Now, I want you to think of the first food that comes to mind when you think of coming down with a cold. Was it chicken soup? Of course, it was! Everyone knows that chicken soup is the cure for the common cold. But why is that you ask? Well, chicken helps to bolster immune cells. And, the steam from the soup helps to clear nasal passages. The combination is no match for a cold.

As a note, the way you prepare your chicken will reflect the nutrients. In terms of energy foods, we don’t suggest fried chicken. For healthy options, baking, roasting, and poaching are the way to go.

Hilltop Acres takes pride in its poultry. We carry a variety of options, at a competitive price. Since 1975 we’ve been serving delicious, healthy and locally sourced meat and poultry products.

More Energy Foods to Add to Your List

This month, we listed a few of our favorite energy foods. Yet, there are so many more to choose from. For this reason, we have compiled a list of other options to add to your diet. Most, you already know. However, you may be pleasantly surprised by others. Check it out:

• Dark Chocolate
• Oatmeal
• Lentils
• Wheat Germ
• Apples
• Leafy Greens (Kale, Spinach, etc.)
• Blueberries
• Avocados
• Oily Fish (Salmon, trout, mackerel, herring, sardines, and anchovies)
• Bison
• Pumpkin Seeds

At any rate, don’t completely cut out the things you love. Life is all about balance. By all means, enjoy your morning cup of coffee. Without a doubt, something in moderation is perfectly fine. 

Nevertheless, adding these energy foods to your diet won’t hurt. Try it out! You might be surprised how much you like it.