7 Foods To Keep You Awake And Energized
When you are an entrepreneur, you’ll need to have the energy to stay productive throughout the day. Besides exercise, healthy foods and drinks can actually help to keep you energetic. Many of us tend to grab a cup of coffee whenever we are feeling sleepy or lazy, often forgetting that we have other healthy alternatives to staying awake. Studies show that certain foods provide a ton of benefits to the health, especially when consumed together. So, take advantage of the following foods to stay cheerful!
Vitamin C and iron
These are said to be very effective for staying awake and energized, with vitamin C helping the body absorb iron more effectively. The best foods that contain iron are:
- red meats (lean)
- seafood (especially salmon, tuna and oysters)
- egg yolks
- tofu and vegetables
- turkey, chicken and spinach
Good amounts of vitamin C can be found in foods such as tomatoes, broccoli, cabbage and citrus fruits as grapefruit and orange. Consider finding recipes that contain a combination of iron and vitamin C-rich foods, such as a salad with spinach and cabbage, as well as slices of orange and some almonds. If you’re looking for an extra boost of vitamin C, you can also explore options like a Myers cocktail Fort Lauderdale, which can provide a blend of nutrients to support your overall health.
Tea
Tea is one of my favorite energy booster, specifically green tea! It’s known to boost energy levels, especially oolong, black, green and white tea. These teas are also high in antioxidants that fight free radicals.
Water
Drinking water is also an effective energy-booster, especially as dehydration is a common problem with many, and being dehydrated is said to curb the mind and body’s ability to function properly. It’s sufficient in providing refreshment to the body, especially when we are stressed or on days when the heat is intense. Your chances of getting dehydrated are also higher if you exercise.
Junk Foods
As much as possible, stay away from junk foods that are loaded with sugar or corn syrup and preservatives, including store-bought energy bars. Initially, these foods will give you a ‘boost’ or burst of energy, but after the “sugar high”, you are likely to feel sluggish and tired.
A smarter choice would be to make your own energy bar: toast some oatmeal and throw in a bit of organic honey or agave nectar, flaxseed, coconut flakes, vanilla, peanut butter, and chocolate chips (preferably dark chocolate). While it is not possible to remove sugar from our diet altogether, minimizing sugar intake can work wonders to those that wish to stay energized. The food pyramid tells us that fats, oils and sweets are to be “used sparingly”.
Salad and lentil soup
Another food to consider is salad and lentil soup, eaten with some wholegrain bread. Consider a small serving of salad on the side, with some vinaigrette dressing. While a soup that uses tomato as a base is insufficient, the combination of the soup, good carb and greens will provide you with the energy that you need for the day.
Quinoa
Quinoa is another energy boosting food. A seed, this “complete protein” is among the best complex carbs out there, while also providing a good amount of calcium, iron, fiber, magnesium and potassium. Magnesium plays a big role in keeping the body hydrated and energized.
Good Carbs
While many steer clear of carbohydrates, they are actually a good source of energy. Carbohydrates are only “bad” when they are consumed in excessive amounts, beyond your ideal daily caloric range; otherwise, pasta, potatoes, bread (preferably wholegrain or wholemeal) and cereals can provide you the energy that you need for the day.
This list shows us that there really is more to staying energized and awake than drinking a cup of coffee. The foods featured in this list are also good sources of nutrients, which help the body perform at its best.