Natural, energy rich foods are a simple solution to being tired all the time. Or at least it can certainly stop you needing that third cup of coffee. Eating lots of high energy foods can give you that boost to cram in gym before work. Or go out to a restaurant with friends for dinner after a tough day. This is what to eat when a granola bar still won’t keep you awake for more than five minutes at a time.
#1 Apples, Bananas, And Kiwis
Fruit in general is a great provider of nutrients and energy, but these three are renown for it. Apples, as well as being big, juicy and red, take longer to digest. This slower release of energy sustains you for longer throughout the day. Apples also have fibre content; meaning they are a more substantial snack then you might think (winning.) Bananas make perfect pre-workout snacks. They are sweet, high in fibre and low in calories. Kiwi fruit has a surprisingly high amount of energy for its carb count, as well as an insane amount of vitamin C. All can be easily tossed into a fruit salad or a smoothie for easy transport.
#2 Hummus
Hummus is a staple in my diet simply because you can buy it for a dollar at Coles (much cheaper than cheese.) However, it also contains ‘complex carbohydrates’, found in the chickpeas it uses. Complex carbohydrates, unlike other carbs, take longer to break down, and therefore slow down digestion. Energy again is released in long lasting segments, which is further into the workload. I totally recommended this snack with water crackers.
#3 Spinach
While the amount of energy was exaggerated in Popeye, spinach is one of those super foods people healthier than you always rave about. Spinach has a large amount of magnesium, which is a nutrient credited to energy production and muscle growth. Its rich in niacin, zinc and protein, but also low in fat/ cholesterol. Making them the perfect diet of any burly armed sailors or tired worker. Have in a salad, wrap or sandwich.
#4 Oats
As a whole-grain food, oats are a natural way for the body to gain a bit of buzz about it. Again, digestion is slowed, and energy is released for a large period of time. This type of food is also high-fibre, which will make you feel fuller after eating less. It’s better to have oats in the morning, and can be the perfect breakfast food when prepared with nuts and fruit. You can pretty much go to town with these little guys.
#5 Eggs
A big provider of protein and daily energy. Eggs are large packets of natural energy that come in an incredible diversity of eating options. They contain all the valuable vitamins and minerals that is needed to produce energy in the body. Not to mention they contain Omega-3 fatty acids (which is actually healthy despite the name), iron and antioxidants. So then, scrambled or fried?
Bonus: Drink Ya Water, Kids
Okay, ending the list with a little bonus that’s not technically a food. However, water is essential to any energy-filled day. Or really any day. Dehydration is the most common cause of tiredness, feelings of light headedness, even hunger. But it’s the most easily overlooked. Ideally, we should all be drinking over 2L of water. Give it a go and see how you feel after a couple days, you’ll be surprised, I’m sure.
