The foods we eat can have a direct influence on the way we feel. Highly processed foods, saturated fats and sugar may be the cause of lethargy, but not only that, they can have an effect on our mental health too. Loading a plate with some common high calorie favourites like pizza and chips is fine once in a while, and they can create powerful uplifting feelings, however, this is fleeting and they provide very little nutritional content, in fact this type of consumption may leave you lacking in certain nutrients. Repeatedly eating in this manor can perpetuate a negative cycle of self-depreciation, so pack your diet with some fatigue fighting foods as part of your ‘battle plan’ to get your energy levels back!
Avocados
High in protein and loaded with healthy fats, including omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids. Fats and protein are two of the macronutrients required for sustained energy, so load up your salad, whip up a guacamole or simply smash it into wholegrain toast with a poached egg – for the ultimate fatigue fighting meal!
Blueberries
These deliciously tasting berries are a good source of manganese, a chemical element that plays an important role in converting carbohydrates and fats into energy. To add to their nutrient rich portfolio, they are an amazing font of antioxidants known as anthocyanidins. Try them in salads for a subtle sweetness or on yoghurt.
Kale
The nutrient ‘powerhouse’ of the vegetable world! Stacked with essential vitamins and minerals needed to support brain health, but it’s also super charged with iron, a mineral needed to carry oxygen to tissues and cells in the body – low iron stores can lead to fatigue. Lightly sauté in olive oil, season and sprinkled with toasted almonds.
Dark Chocolate
A good quality high cocoa content chocolate with little sugar, is the key to gaining benefits from this treat. Chocolate, like caffeine, is a stimulant, which can help to elevate mood and stimulate serotonin production. A couple of cubes is all you need to put the ‘spring back into your step’. A stand-alone convenient, energy lifting champion.
Nuts & Seeds
Nutritiously dense and packed with energy supporting goodness. It’s the protein, healthy fats, vitamins and minerals that make this food source a go-to when energy levels need a lift. They are great for snacking, sprinkled on to salads, used in baking, nut/seed butters. A truly virtuous and versatile energy source. Why not have a look around our Wholefood range to get started!
Bananas
These portable energy powerhouses are an excellent way to give your body fuel. Loaded with potassium, fibre and vitamins these carbohydrate dense fruits are a fabulous way to boost your natural energy levels. They’re delicious in pancakes, porridge, yoghurt, smoothies and even on toast with a slather of nut butter. Plus, they’re inexpensive too!
Oats
Rich in fibre and slow-releasing energy, oats are an excellent choice to maintain energy levels. Great for breakfast but can be made in to cookies to snack on or even in to oat milk to enjoy in a smoothie. A cheap and effective energy source.
Final thought
A diet based on a variety of healthy food choices in all the colours of the rainbow are key in supporting energy levels. Add eight glasses of water daily to the mix for hydration and you’re well on your way to giving fatigue the heave-ho.
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Olivia
Olivia Salter has always been an avid health nut. After graduating from the University of Bristol, she began working for a nutritional consultancy where she discovered her passion for all things wellness-related. There, she executed much of the company’s content marketing strategy and found her niche in health writing, publishing articles in Women’s Health, Mind Body Green, Thrive and Psychologies.
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