Fatigue is one of the most common conditions that plagues everyone, from busy high school and college students to older working adults. While the most obvious cure for constant fatigue is to get a solid eight hours each night, or to take a quick nap in the afternoon, is it no secret that this is not always possible.
In fact, studies show that most humans do not get nearly enough quality sleep that they need to have optimal energy throughout the day.
This lack of energy is the reason that this newest trend of energy drinks has become so prevalent. But, the problem is that energy drinks, including, but not limited to, Red Bull contain high amounts of sugar and caffeine. Various medical experts have stated that these drinks are ‘another form of drugs.’
These drinks contain stimulants that cause rapid heart rate, increased blood pressure and stimulation of the central nervous system, much like, stimulant drugs. The FDA reports that the drink 5-Hour Energy might be linked to as many as 13 deaths in the past four years.
And, another important thing to consider is the fact that there is a very real crash and burn effect once these drinks wear off. And, often people will keep drinking them once the effect of the first one wears off.
For those who are low on energy, unable to make it to bed early enough, and living demanding lives that really have no room for fatigue and the lack of energy they continuously feel, there is another option to promote incredible energy in a healthy and natural way. And, that is through a sensible diet and foods that provide lasting, all natural and real energy to keep you going throughout the day.
The Top 10 Foods For Energy
Eggs: Egg yolks contain a high level of essential B-vitamins, which are in charge of converting the food you eat into energy, and vitamin D, which helps build and maintain strong bones. While eggs are also a source of saturated fats, these unwanted additions can be avoided by making a breakfast of one full egg and up to three egg whites.
Edamame: Edamame are green soybeans and are filled with energizing B-vitamins such as phosphorous and copper. These are important for breaking down carbohydrates into glucose, which the body uses for energy. Edamame are also high in fibre, protein, and good carbs which make them the perfect snack to revive your energy throughout the day.
Coffee: It’s no coincidence that coffee shops and cafés can be found on almost every corner in most cities. Filled with energizing caffeine, coffee is a great way to get a boost of energy when you need it most. Some studies show that coffee is even effective for fighting cancer. A simple eight-ounce cup is perfect for providing the needed amount of energy to get through the average work day.
Whole Grains: Found in most cereals, whole grains are high in fibre and responsible for the slow release of glucose which helps keep you full, focused, and energized throughout the day. Instead of spiking blood sugar levels like one might after eating candy or throwing back an energy drink full of refined sugars, whole grains keep you consistently energized naturally.
Melons: These succulent fruits help fight chronic fatigue by keeping the body hydrated. Honeydew, watermelon, cantaloupe, and similar melons are 90% water, which means snacking on these fruits will flood the body with nutrients, minerals, and plenty of natural hydration to keep you awake and alert.
Cheese: Another protein packed food is cheese. Like eggs, cheese is filled with protein and other energy inducing B-vitamins. The best cheese to consume is farmer’s cheese as it presses the cheese curds until they have been separated from the liquid, whey.
Walnuts: A natural source of melatonin, walnuts are a great snack to eat before bed. Melatonin is a natural hormone produced by the body after the sun goes down to help make you sleepy. Of course, a good night s sleep is the best plan to combat fatigue, so add walnuts to your pantry for the perfect bedtime snack.
Green Tea: For those who don’t enjoy the taste of coffee or can’t tolerate the high caffeine content, there’s green tea. This delicious tea is filled with L-theanine which is an amino acid that helps you feel exhilarated and alert to get through your day.
Quinoa: Known as a super-grain, quinoa is filled with more protein than any other grain. It contains high levels of protein and amino acids such as methionine, lysine, and cysteine.
Water: It may seem too simple, but water is one of the best foods for incredible energy. By simply drinking at least eight cups of water every day, people can stay hydrated, which in turn gives them energy, alertness, and consistent hydration.
