Food plays a critical role when it comes to your health and energy. A well-balanced diet can keep you fueled for long four hours. The foods included in a well-balanced diet are called superfoods that are healthy and efficient. The superfoods are not only packed with an additional nutritional punch than other foods, but they also have exclusive properties. Let’s know more about these foods in this guide.
What properties do superfoods have?
Although all foods play the same role in providing energy to the body, this energy varies from food to food. Some foods like carbs and sugars give the body a jolt of energy, but the body needs more sustainable energy from nutritious foods called superfoods. Superfoods are called super because of their properties, such as:
· Support immune system
· Prevent inflammation in the body
· Support mental health
· Increase stamina
· Boost energy
· Keep the digestive system healthy
· Improve memory
· Provide strength and longevity
Superfoods for boosting energy
Several foods can optimize your daily energy level. Some of these superfoods are:
Bananas
Bananas are one of the best foods for providing you with enough energy. Whether you add bananas in a fruit chat or blend a frozen one into a smoothie, you can get increased energy from it. Bananas are full of complex carbohydrates, potassium, protein, and vitamin B6.
Yoghurt
Yogurt does not only taste delicious but also is a good source of energy. It has carbs in simple sugar forms, such as galactose and lactose. These sugars, when broken down, provide a ready-to-use source of energy to the body for as long as four hours. You can enjoy having a bowl full of Greek yogurt topped with fresh berries and honey.
Beans
Beans are available on the market in several different varieties. Whichever option you get, they all share similar nutrition profiles. Beans are known for their slow-digesting properties, which means you can feel full for a long time. Also, consuming beans in your daily diet can keep your sugar level stable and help produce energy. Beans are a rich source of fiber, protein, carbs, folic acid, magnesium, iron, and antioxidants, which deliver energy to body cells.
Eggs
Eggs are a good source of nutrients and proteins for providing sustainable energy. A hard-boiled egg can have about 6 grams of protein and 5 grams of fat with several minerals and vitamins to keep the body fresh and energized for a long time. You can reap the benefits of the egg by adding it to your breakfast or eating it as a healthy snack.
Dark leafy greens
Dark leafy greens include spinach, kale, and collard greens. They are a great source of proteins, nutrients, and antioxidants, which boost energy. You can consume dark leafy greens by adding them to your salad. Since most people have difficulty digesting raw greens, you can cook them with a bit of lemon juice.
Oats
Oatmeal is the perfect superfood because of its high fiber, protein, magnesium, and potassium. Oats contain complex carbohydrates and are a slow-burning source of energy. Oatmeal is one of the ideal foods you can have for breakfast with loads of berries, bananas, honey, or maple syrup. Oats are known to boost the production of serotonin, which helps manage stress and enhance brain functionality. They are known to lower cholesterol levels which makes them heart-healthy food. It is important to avoid consuming sugar-packed flavored oats and make your oatmeal instead.
Salmon
Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and anti-inflammatory properties. The rich omega 3s are beneficial for heart health, and the American Heart Association recommends eating fatty fish at least twice a week. Intake of salmon decreases depressive symptoms and improves cognitive functions. It improves metabolism, allows more efficient use of oxygen in the body, and boosts energy.
Lentils
Lentils are the powerhouse for low-fat protein, iron, fiber, zin, potassium, and folate. They are also rich in fiber and selenium. One cup of cooked lentils contains up to 15 grams of fiber and 36 grams of carbs. Eating lentils in your daily diet can keep your blood sugar level stabilized, and the mineral called selenium is said to have mood-enhancing properties. A low level of selenium can lower energy levels and cause poor mood.
Final words
If you plan right what you should eat, it can keep you healthy and energized for long hours. The key to maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle is to limit sugary foods and consume meals made of low carbohydrates. High sugar foods are the worst food options because they quickly raise your blood sugar level and release too much insulin, which can cause a sugar crash. So, pay keen attention to what you eat and drink, and try to add as many superfoods to your diet as possible to keep you energized and healthy all day. Also, don’t forget to fuel up your body with superfoods every four hours to maintain your energy levels.