Energy is a vital element in ensuring that individuals can partake in their daily activities and tasks. However, recent studies have shown that energy, particularly in young people, is significantly lacking as many people claim they feel grouchy or de-motivated by the time the clock strikes midday.
However, energy isn't something that we only develop and regenerate through our sleep and it is equally as important to ensure that our diets are well balanced to boost our energy levels. Though, despite the common misconceptions, energizing foods do not only need to be in the forms of leafy greens or grainy products. Here are 6 foods that you may not know can boost your energy.
1. SWEET POTATOES
Due to their high fiber and carbohydrate contents, sweet potatoes take a long time to digest and can hence provide the body with a long and steady supply of energy. As well as this they can make you feel fuller for longer periods, indicating that they are an excellent means of assisting with diets and meal plans. Though, it is still important that they are consumed in moderation due to the high carb content that they contain.
2. APPLES
We often hear that apples can help increase digestion and can supply the body with healthy sugars, however, apples are also an excellent source of energy as the nutrients and vitamins that they contain can supply the body with long-lasting energy. As the old saying goes, an apple a day can truly keep the doctor away as antioxidants act as a cleanse to bad oils or fats that may be in the body. Though, it is recommended that apples are eaten whole as purees and juices generally remove significant amounts of fiber, leading to a shorter supply of energy.
3. DARK CHOCOLATE
Due to the high cocoa content, dark chocolate is high in antioxidants and can hence assist in increasing blood flow within the body. By doing so, the body can deliver more oxygen to muscles and the brain, increasing their functionality and hence boosting overall energy in individuals. Dark chocolate also contains caffeine and theobromine which can enhance mental energy and bring balance to emotional mood states.
4. YOGURT
Made up of carbs, lactose, and galactose, the sugars in yogurt can provide ready-to-use energy almost immediately after consumption. As well, it is filled with protein that can slow the digestion of carbohydrates and hence slow down the release of sugars in the body, to provide longer-lasting energy in the body. Due to these qualities, as well as the many vitamins contained in yogurt, it is considered to be the perfect snack for those feeling peckish throughout their day.
5. HUMMUS
Made from chickpeas, sesame seed paste, oil, and lemon, hummus is a significant source of energy due to the large number of complex carbs and fiber that these ingredients contain. This can provide long-lasting energy due to the slow digestion process that they create. As well, the high content of healthy fats within these ingredients can help avoid blood sugar spikes to hence assist with the maintenance of overall individual health. 6. POPCORN
High in carbs and fiber, popcorn is an excellent low-calorie and energizing snack. A 100 gram serving of air-popped popcorn provides 78 grams of carbs and 15 grams of fiber, making it one of the highest-fiber foods that there is. Through this high fiber content, energy in the body is released at a slower pace than regular foods and can hence allow the body to productively function for longer periods. Popcorn can be especially beneficial when it is cooked with wholesome ingredients such as honey or natural salts.
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